Digital tools are not new to art. But some artists are fascinated with the way these tools are changing art practices. “alterations,” a group show at Locks Gallery, takes a look at art and technology, and while this might not sound like a laugh-out-loud show to you, the mix of video and installation includes some fun stuff.
Curated by video artist Peter Campus, who has previously shown at Locks, the five-person exhibit demonstrates not only how eerie an art mimic technology can be but also how much humor resides in the mash-up between old fashioned “aht” with new-fangled technology. Campus’ video of a barn has been pixillated almost beyond recognition. The result? It resembles a precisionist painting of a barn by Charles Sheeler circa 1925. What goes around comes around may be the lesson here. It’s a beautiful image and also raises ideas about the importance of icons and how icons, like the barn, transcend time and media.
Jason Varone’s drawing of a cartoon cloud on the wall includes the addition of a projected image. The projection makes it seem as if the cloud is raining cartoon rain down the gallery wall. Not quite Disney and yet Disney-sprited, the piece is sweet and will make you smile. Without a heavy hand, “alterations” will get you thinking about art as a fluid adapter to the world of Tomorrowland.
Read this article at Philadelphia Weekly.
”alterations,” Jan 7-Feb 5. Opening reception, 5:30-7:30pm. Locks Gallery, 600 S. Washington Square, 215 629 1000.
