Maxwell Colette Gallery and Pawn Works Present
GAIA: Resplendent Semblance
March 25th – May 7, 2011
Opening Reception: Friday, March 25th 2011 / 6 – 9pmPawn Works and Maxwell Colette Gallery have joined forces to bring internationally lauded contemporary artists to Chicago, who are known for their involvement in the Street Art movement. The first of these joint ventures, GAIA: Resplendent Semblance, launches this month with a series of projects showcasing the artist Gaia. The events will include a show of new, large scale paintings and decollage on wood art works at Maxwell Colette Gallery, a site specific installation and show featuring additional pieces at the Pawn Works space and a massive window installation at State Street and Adams presented in conjunction with The Chicago Loop Alliance’s Pop Up Art Loop initiative.
Gaia’s art is best known for his large scale renderings of human and animal forms, often in states of hybridization. Animals fuse with humans or other animals, blending visual characteristics and layers of spiritual and mythological relevance. Reclaiming a long dormant visual iconography, Gaia’s images transcend cultural literacy, achieving significance on multiple levels. As contemporary urban culture deemphasizes nature, Gaia invades the city of glass, steel and concrete with a breathtaking reminder of earth and life. Functioning as a contemporary visual shaman, he facilitates uniquely urban interactions with postmodern spirit guides who in turn force us to acknowledge our lost connection with the natural and the mystical worlds.
Pawn Works and Maxwell Colette Gallery will co-host an opening reception for GAIA:Resplendent Semblance at Maxwell Colette Gallery on Friday, March 25th from 6 – 9 pm. The artist will be in attendance.
