Plus Gallery News

OPENING NEXT THURSDAY, MARCH 8th - XI ZHANG "11 CEREMONIES"

2012-03-01T12:41:00.003-08:00

PLUS GALLERY ARTIST R. JUSTIN STEWART COMMENCES NEW SERIES OF NY EXHIBITIONS MARCH 10TH

2012-03-01T12:40:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artists R. Justin Stewart has created some of the most striking installations in the country by an emerging artist in the last decade, works that are both intellectually and formally complex. In 2012 he will unveil "The Messiah Project," a series of exhibitions that take on a controversial theme and update it in a thoroughly contemporary context. His first kicks off on March 10th at the Invisible Art Center in Brooklyn, NY:

DISTORTING (A MESSIAH PROJECT, 13C)
Opening Reception is on March 10th 6-10pm

March 10 - May 5th 2012
The Invisible Art Center
51 Bergen St Brooklyn, NY

When most people think of "the Messiah," they can have a singular view of what the concept captures, represented by our contemporary understanding. "Distorting (a messiah project, 13C)," is the first installation in a research intensive series of sculptures and installations that challenges conventional wisdom around one of history's most controversial subjects. "Distorting," an intricate web of fleece, rope, and plastic, is a three-dimensional representation of the concept of the messiah, as it existed in the 13th Century. As viewers move through and around the installation, they will find QR (quick response) codes embedded throughout the sculpture. By scanning those codes with cell phones or other mobile devices, they will be able to access the bit of data each pod represents and therefore begin to draw connections between the sculptural elements and the history of the messianic concept. "Distorting," part of the larger "a messiah project" series, will be installed on the ground floor of the Invisible Dog Art Center, curated by Risa Shoup.

Stewart will follow up with a heavy itinerary this spring and early summer:

ILLUMINATING DATA: VISUALIZING THE INFORMATION THAT MOVES OUR WORLD
March 14 through April 19, 2012
The College of New Jersey Art Gallery
2000 Pennington Road Ewing, NJ
tcnjartgallery.pages.tcnj.edu

DISTORTING (A MESSIAH PROJECT, 14C)
March 23 - April 1st
37th St Chashama Space
266 West 37th Street New York, NY
www.chashama.org

(UN)FOLDING PATTERNS
May 20th - July 22nd, 2012
Dorsky Gallery
11-03 45th Ave, Long Island City, NY
www.dorsky.org

UPCOMING DAMC STUDIO TOURS INCLUDE PLUS GALLERY ARTISTS XI ZHANG AND BRUCE PRICE

2012-03-01T12:36:00.000-08:00

The DAM Contemporaries launch the first of this year's artist studio visits on Saturday, March 10th. Plus Gallery artists Xi Zhang and Bruce Price are both on the itinerary, each has moved into a new studio in the past year and both are highly relevant to the local contemporary scene today. You must be a member of the DAMC to join, the schedule is as follows:

Saturday March 10, 2012
2:00 - 4:15pm    $10
Limited to 20 DAMC members

2:00 -3:00 pm
Xi Zhang's Studio (Santa Fe Art District)

Influenced by pop culture and social media platforms, Xi Zhang mines material for his art from what he refers to as "twenty-first century DNA" -- Facebook, video games, advertisements and Google searches. Zhang's use of the fantastic -- that slipstream realm between the real and unreal -- challenges our judgments of technology and media.

3:15 - 4:15pm
Bruce Price's Studio (RiNo Art District)

Utilizing a painterly approach, Bruce Price employs a series of patterns, colors and textures to create an extraordinary sense of depth, dimension, and visual rhythm in his work. He has become one of Denver's most lauded contemporary painters by delving into the nuances that have long typified the ornamental genre.

Reservations:
Please call 720-913-0150 by March 5
You will receive driving directions when you make your reservation

Questions:
damc@denverartmuseum.org

FOOTAGE FROM LAST WEEKEND'S "NEW SPHERE" PERFORMANCE AT PLUS GALLERY POSTED TO YOUTUBE

2012-03-01T12:35:00.000-08:00

Fun night, what a crowd! To see what you missed or to relive selections of the evening, visit our youtube page for the following clips:

http://youtu.be/eeZ5y-7ZsY4
http://youtu.be/cAeS06fJ-kc
http://youtu.be/dPIwW-TqXLY

Another great opportunity to check out Drew Englander's "Real Magic" is this coming Saturday, March 3rd. Drew will be performing again at the Larimer Lounge preceding the awesome national band Yacht that night. We highly recommend being there for both groups.

Drew Englander - performance interlude

Pictureplane!

THE APOCALYPSE IS ALMOST OVER: FINAL WEEK FOR "APOCALYPSE? HOW!" AT PLUS GALLERY

2012-03-01T12:32:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery's current exhibition "Apocalypse? HOW!" will conclude this weekend, please stop by during regular hours through Saturday March 3rd to view. Plus Gallery will remain open for extended hours till 7pm this Friday, March 2nd for Denver's monthly first Friday gallery stroll.

The exhibition delivers on the premise that the apocalypse is both a historic concept as well as a figment of our collective imaginations, a proposed occurrence that expands boundaries that substantiate life. The works on view by four premier emerging artists Drew Englander, Donald Fodness, Paul Nudd and Larry Bob Phillips are fun, moving, visceral and ultimately another quality depiction of contemporary art today. Don't miss out this final week!

"Abort Mission Hail Mary (detail)," Donald Fodness, 2011

DON'T MISS TONIGHT'S LOGAN LECTURE FEATURING TUCKER NICHOLS

2012-02-23T15:23:00.000-08:00

The DAM Contemporaries host the second Logan Lecture in the current series tonight, February 22nd, featuring US artist Tucker Nichols. From the artists website:

Tucker Nichols has had recent solo shows at ZieherSmith Gallery in New York, Gallery 16 in San Francisco, and the Kunstpanorama in Luzern, Switzerland. His work has been featured at the Drawing Center and John Connelly Presents in New York, Den Frie Museum in Copenhagen and the 2010 California Biennial at the Orange County Museum of Art. His drawings have been published in McSweeney's, J&L Books, The Thing, Nieves Books and the Op-Ed pages of The New York Times. Recent residencies include Headlands Center for the Arts, Acadia Summer Arts Program, and the deYoung Museum in San Francisco. He is the founder of Anonymous Postcard, a mail-based suggestion box for the world.

Nichols has a BA from Brown University and an MA from Yale University. His studio is in the Marin Headlands near San Francisco.

The lecture starts at 7pm at the Denver Art Museum in the downstairs auditorium. Join the DAMC tonight and receive a free t-shirt as sported by Plus Gallery intern Jenna Douglas below. Current members can purchase these high quality shirts as well for a ridiculously inexpensive rate, pick yours up at the lecture tonight.

THE APOCALYPSE PEAKS THIS FRIDAY NIGHT! "NEW SPHERE" FEATURING "PICTUREPLANE" and "REAL MAGIC" TO TAKE PLACE AT PLUS GALLERY

2012-02-23T15:18:00.001-08:00

Plus Gallery's current exhibition "Apocalypse? HOW!" features some rare emerging talent from Denver and beyond, with Drew Englander standing as one of the premier multi-disciplinary artists to rise above the norm. While his beautiful, intricately rendered graphite drawings hit the right tone for our exhibition, Englander excels creatively with both his video works as well as his musical project Real Magic.

We are pleased to announce that Drew will deliver a sensory assualt this Friday evening, his Real Magic teaming up with Pictureplane, Travis Egedy's musical entity that is one of the hottest names in the underground scene across the globe right now. Both artists have distinguished themselves locally by being at the forefront of one of the most vibrant youth movements in Denver, with Egedy making his mark well beyond, his music produced by Lovepump United, the same label that supports the supreme artists "Health" and "Crystal Castles." Egedy has recently toured in Russia and has an upcoming tour in Japan and South Korea this spring, no doubt a result of his high accolades from the professional and critical music community. Both artists are recent graduates of the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, a school that has consistently produced some of the most remarkable talent of the last decade, and both have had their visual art introduced via Plus Gallery through group exhibitions. All that adds up to a profoundly unique moment for the gallery, we are quite certain that it will be a night to remember.

Plus Gallery will open at 9pm for an hour of social mixing, supplanted by the wonders of Great Divide, with the evening's performance starting around 10pm. The event is free, donations may be made to contribute to the audio-setup as well as the beverages.

Here is some additional information and links to both Real Magic and Pictureplane, for the uninitiated:

Real Magic
From the Heart Music Group website:

R E A L M A G I C is the moniker of 26 yr. old singer / producer / artist Drew Englander from Denver, CO. He makes densely layered electronic noise-pop, sampling his voice and singing hooks through a veil of fuzzy synths and spastic drum machines. Inspired equally by orchestras, epic film scores, Shoegaze, R&B, Grime and a wide range of bass-centric club music, his songs are at once danceable, contemplative and emotional.

Englander began experimenting with electronic music during his years in art school, using the ideas he developed within his visual and performance work as a conceptual basis for R E A L M A G I C. Upon graduating in 2009, he started fleshing out his musical vision more seriously, driven by the desire to affect people deeply on an experiential level. He wants to move you. He wants you to feel.
http://heartmusicgroup.bandcamp.com/album/r-e-a-l-m-a-g-i-c

http://soundcloud.com/realmagic

Pictureplane
From the Lovepump United Website:

24-year-old weirdo performance artist Travis Egedy, a.k.a. Pictureplane, obsesses over the cosmos, 90s house music, collective consciousness, and mind-altering chemicals you've never heard of. Much like his interests, Pictureplane's music is strange and boundless and totally righteous. Having cut his teeth on raging tours with HEALTH, a collab with Beirut's Zach Condon and killer remixes for Crystal Castles, HEALTH, and Thieves Like Us, Pictureplane delivers his first full-length for Lovepump, Dark Rift.

Grimy synths, broken beats, and bucolic vocals collide somewhere between early 90s house music and the gnarly soundscapes of Black Dice to forge a sound that's wholly unique and endlessly exciting. It's exceedlingly rare to find dance music that transcends the cold and robotic, but on Dark Rift Pictureplane does just that: churning out intricate electronic jams out of his near-legendary Denver warehouse space Rhinoceropolis. The music feels at once personal and cosmically expansive.

http://www.theephysical.com/

http://soundcloud.com/pictureplane

http://vimeo.com/26480359

New William Betts paintings arriving at Plus in advance of his April solo exhibition "Remote Sensing"

2012-02-16T14:36:00.001-08:00

BILL AMUNDSON SIGHTING POSSIBLE THROUGH END OF WEEK IN DENVER

2012-02-16T14:35:00.000-08:00

Bill Amundson arrived in town last night for his series of workshops and lectures at the Art Student's League, which start this evening with "How I Draw What I Draw" at 6pm. Any opportunity to hear Bill speak about his work, or life in general, is worth taking and we hope that the demonstrations and master classes will be jam packed. Those who are not able to attend might get lucky and run into Bill and his wife Anita elsewhere as they take in the fresh Colorado air the next few days. Bill will be bringing his latest self portrait to Plus Gallery tomorrow for us to share, as fine a substitute for the real thing as we might ask for.

Detail from "Portrait of an Artist" by Bill Amundson

WESTWORD INTERVIEW WITH NANCY HIGHTOWER POSTED ONLINE THIS WEEK IN REFERENCE TO APOCALYPSE? HOW!

2012-02-16T14:33:00.000-08:00

We are extremely pleased to see Westword's blog on our current exhibition "Apocalypse? HOW!" this week, and in particular the emphasis on writer Nancy Hightower who created the text that proceeded the exhibition (as serialized in our newsletter and on facebook) and accompanies the exhibition. Hightower is quickly gaining notoriety for her creative and journalistic writing, particularly as it relates to contemporary art. Hightower wrote the introduction to our recent book "Xi Zhang: Dream Dusts" (which will also accompany his upcoming solo exhibition next month) and is currently working on a piece on Jenny Morgan for her upcoming solo show at Plus in May. Read more about Nancy and her take on the Apocalypse online at

http://blogs.westword.com/showandtell/2012/02/theres_a_lot_of_buzz.php

And don't forget to drop by the gallery to see the works in our current show, there is some extremely well crafted works on view from Denver artists Drew Englander and Donald Fodness, and much more than meets the eye online with Albuquerque's Larry Bob Phillips and Chicago's Paul Nudd.

Larry Bob Phillips - Falls in Love

SAVE THE DATE: XI ZHANG SOLO EXHIBITION AT PLUS GALLERY OPENS MARCH 8TH

2012-02-09T14:02:00.000-08:00

"11 Ceremonies" is the first season of Xi Zhang's painting series "The Switches," the artist's reaction to new social network forms and contemporary technologies. The paintings document our continually shifting online living experiences and identities, interpreted by Zhang through a stunning array of color and fluid form. Xi Zhang is one of the most distinguished emerging artists in Colorado history. In 2011 he received his MFA in painting from CU Boulder, concurrently being named a "Pathfinder" in the visual arts and one of the top artists under 35 by the Denver Post. Later that year he became the youngest artist to deliver a logan lecture at the Denver Art Museum as part of the fall series' focus on Chinese contemporary art. His new works are socially charged, symbolically complex and as visually rich as anything being done in contemporary art in the world today.

"FUTURO ANTERIORE" FEATURING PLUS GALLERY ARTIST ALLIE POHL OPENS SATURDAY IN LA

2012-02-09T14:01:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Allie Pohl is getting a lot of attention in LA since her move there in 2010. Her latest group exhibition is "Futuro Anteriore", curated by Simmy Swinder and also featuring Sarah Danays, Elyse Graham, Gerit Grimm and Lewis Mauk. The exhibition takes place at the Carmichael Gallery, 5795 Washington Blvd. in Culver City, the hotbed for contemporary art in LA. The exhibition opens with a reception on Saturday, February 11th from 6-9pm and remains on view through March 10th.

From the gallery press release:

Carmichael Gallery is pleased to present Futuro Anteriore, a group exhibition curated by Simmy Swinder and featuring works by Los Angeles-based artists Sarah Danays, Elyse Graham, Gerit Grimm, Lewis Mauk and Allie Pohl. Through a variety of media, the artists explore the multifarious concept of the artifact and its transfiguration through time. There will be an opening reception for Futuro Anteriore on February 11. The exhibition will remain on view through March 10, 2011.

Sarah Danays meticulously photographs her sculptural works, which combine self-created elements with found and repurposed antiquities, to create a powerful merger of fictional object and archived curiosity that is often spiritually-based and reinterprets ideas founded on Jean Baudrillard's Simulacra and Simulation. Her translation of Baudrillard's theories manifests in the exchange of physical objects and actual experiences for secondary visual stimuli: with the tangible out of reach, Danays proposes that it is no longer of consequence whether or not it exists, as our relationship is only with its copy. Danays received her BFA from University of the Arts, London and her MFA from Goldsmiths. Elyse Graham searches for ways in which to document and substantiate time as a means of understanding human existence. Geodes in particular have served as "objects of wonderment for me since childhood... I continue to be fascinated with the notion that seemingly ordinary objects have the possibility of harboring something unexpected and beautiful." Her own description of her distinctive creative process underlines its deceptive simplicity: "I build my geodes around the void created by my exhaled breath. When each piece is finished, there is no evidence of what may lay beneath its surface. As I create the piece one layer at a time, each time covering up the layer that preceded it, I have no idea what will reveal itself once the geode is split open." Graham is also interested in the notion of the geode as time capsule, as exemplified by the exhibited video of a geode CT scan that accompanies her sculptural pieces - a cavity is slowly encroached upon by external elements, creating a history from the inside out. Graham received her BA from Brown University. She recently exhibited with Grey Area at the Bass Museum of Art, Miami and The Hole, New York. Upon emigrating to California from Germany, Gerit Grimm became fascinated with the cult-like quest for the perfect body, which is exemplified in her ceramic sculptures by a seemingly effortless and endless exchange of body parts. Grimm studied ceramics at Burg Giebichenstein, Halle, where she earned an Art and Design Diploma in 2001. In 2002, she was awarded the German DAAD Government Grant for the University of Michigan School of Art and Design, where she graduated with an MA in 2002. She received her MFA from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University in 2004. She has taught at CSULB, Pitzer College, Doane College and MSU Bozeman and has worked at major residencies, including McColl Center, Bemis Center, Kohler Arts & Industry Program and Archie Bray Foundation. Lewis Mauk collects everyday objects that most overlook and / or easily discard. These objects, which range from razors, toothbrushes, prescription pill bottles and rose thorns to wishbones, fortunes, horoscopes and a plethora of other contemporary quotidian objects, serve as an autobiographical time capsule. Mauk then utilizes processes such as photography, lithography and sculpture to represent these objects in a novel and artistically thoughtful way. "My subject matter," he says, "is both index and evidence of obsessive-compulsive behavior, prescriptive and self-medicating and the matriarchal influences in my life." Lewis received his BFA in 1997 from the University of Tennessee and his MFA from CalArts in 2000.

Allie Pohl's work examines projections of female beauty and perfection and the ways in which they dominate women's lives. She developed the symbolic Ideal Woman, based on American cultural icon, Barbie, to question the social constructs of these unattainable and ultimately illusionary ideals. The Ideal Woman serves as an avatar that is repeated throughout Pohl's sculptures, installations, prints and jewelry. Pohl received a BA from Hamilton College in 2007, an Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design from Parsons in 2008, and an MFA in Electronic Media Arts & Design from the University of Denver in 2010. Her artwork and branded merchandise have been featured in over 40 print and online media outlets, including USA Today, LIFE Magazine, Marie Claire, Elle, The Orlando Sentinel, The Denver Post, Cool Hunting and The American Contemporary Art Magazine.

WHITING'S DENVER "RHINO" IN FULL PAGE VIEW IN FEBRUARY SUNSET MAGAZINE

2012-02-09T14:00:00.000-08:00

The February issue of Sunset Magazine features a full-page photo of Mike Whiting's "Rhino" sculpture adjacent to Plus Gallery at the corner of Broadway and Larimer. The image is part of the publications Mountain Weekend profile that focuses on the River North Arts District, which states "This art district is booming but still feels like a secret - even to locals." True, and we like it that way! Pick up a copy on the newstands now.

"SUBURBIA" FEATURING PLUS GALLERY ARTIST MIKE WHITING OPENS FRIDAY NIGHT

2012-02-09T13:59:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Mike Whiting will be in Colorado this Friday night for another curated exhibition that the Denver Post touted as a show not to miss this season. "Suburbia" combines Whiting's sculptures with works by two of Denver's best artists Christopher Coleman and Phil Bender, along with Micahel Slatter. The exhibition opens with a reception on Friday evening from 6-9pm in Colorado Springs at the GOCA121, the downtown exhibition space that's curated by UCCS. The exhibition remains on view through April 13, 2012.

The exhibition statement is below, and for more information visit

http://www.galleryuccs.org

In a place and time where suburbs have become the norm, where generic is desirable and conformity is all too often celebrated, GOCA features four artists investigating this cultural phenomenon. The work of Phil Bender mines the physical history of American domestic life, inviting classification through massing of collected objects and opening the door to nostalgia and collective memory. Founder of "Pirate: A Contemporary Art Oasis", one of the first cooperative galleries in Denver and the region, Bender has exhibited nationally and regionallyand will exhibit works in GOCA for the first time. Long-time collaborators Christopher Coleman & Michael Salter individually are well known for their works in video, installation, and illustration. "My House is not my House" began as a pair of animated illustrations, expanding on Michael Salter's work depicting life in America. In 2010 the animations were expanded and became a series of high definition "digital paintings" for which SUBURBIA will serve as their Colorado premier. Michael Whiting creates playful sculptures from the forms and imagery of early video gaming and computer graphics. Whiting's four solo exhibitions with Plus Gallery in Denver, Colorado since 2004 have established a devoted following for his art in the region. He is also represented in Los Angeles, California with Edward Cella Art + Architecture, since 2010.

MORGAN PICS FROM LAST WEEK'S CVA OPENING NOW ON PLUS WEBSITE

2012-02-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

Last week the Center for Visual Arts in Denver unveiled an exhibition that should be on everyone's list to visit this winter. "Out Figured" is an exceptional display of both local and national talent that takes the concept of figure in contemporary art to great heights. Named as one of the top shows not to miss this season by the Denver Post, the exhibition features a broad selection of recent paintings by Plus Gallery artist Jenny Morgan, who visited Denver last week for the opening reception. Visit the Plus Gallery scrapbook page to see pics of Jenny and her contribution to the show.

http://plusgallery.com/scrapbook/59/

The new Plus Gallery video "Jenny Morgan: Self Portrait" accompanies her works in the show and can also be viewed online at

http://vimeo.com/36023482

Jenny Morgan - Self Portrait (video still)

Four Morgan paintings at the CVA

Jenny and CVA director Jennifer Garner | photo by Ken Hamel / DenverArts.org

APOCALYPSE? HOW! EXHIBITION OPENS TO LARGE CROWD

2012-02-02T13:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all who came out in support of last week's opening reception for "Apcalypse? HOW!" As vibrant a night as one is likely to find in a Denver gallery, and a terrific exhibition that is worth checking out in person without a huge crowd. On view through March 3rd.

JOIN FOUR TERRIFIC GROUPS FOR A CONTEMPORARY HOME OPEN HOUSE FEB. 16TH IN DENVER

2012-02-02T13:30:00.000-08:00

Kentwood City Properties, Elevate Architecture, UMD Home and Plus Gallery are hosting an open house for the latest spectacular home design by Elevate Architecture. Join us on February 16th to explore this modern 4 bedroom masterpiece and meet the team behind the design. Wine and nibbles to be provided. Plus Gallery has contributed three exceptional works by artist Kate Petley to help show-off the great style and sensibilities of the home, the perfect compliment for high-quality aesthetics.

Location: 947 Gilpin St.
5-8pm

For more information visit http://www.lizrichardsrealestate.com

MIKE WHITING SHOWS OFF NEW WORKS IN GOCA EXHIBITION "SUBURBIA" OPENING FEB. 10TH IN COLORADO SPRINGS

2012-02-02T13:27:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Mike Whiting will have works on view in "Suburbia" along with Phil Bender, Christopher Coleman and Michael Salter at GOCA121, UCCS downtown Colorado Springs location from February 10th through April 13, 2012. Whiting has produced a number of new small-scale sculptures for the exhibition, all in his clean, distinct style that has made him one of the most popular artists to collect from the Plus Gallery stable and beyond. For more information visit www.galleryuccs.org The Gallery of Contemporary Art will host an Opening Reception for the exhibition on Friday, February 10 from 6 - 9 pm.

TIME RUNNING OUT TO SIGN UP FOR BILL AMUNDSON MASTER CLASSES WITH ASL DENVER

2012-02-02T13:25:00.000-08:00

Bill Amundson - How I Draw What I Draw

Thursday, February 16, 2012 - 6-8pm

Join Plus Gallery artist Bill Amundson for this Art Students League of Denver lecture and demonstration as he discusses the evolution of ideas in his recent work and demonstrates his actual methods and graphic techniques. Secrets will be revealed!

Registration required by 2/10, for more information visit http://asld.org

Bill Amundson - Blurred Vision: Seeing the World Your Way
Saturday, February 18, 2012 - 9am - 4pm Part 1

Sunday, February 19, 2012 - 9am - 4pm Part 2

Plus Gallery artist Bill Amundson delivers a Master Class workshop for the Art Students League Denver over two days in February. This drawing workshop will explore ideas: where they come from, how to get them, and what to do with them. Artists have always drawn inspiration and motivation from a wide variety of sources?current events, politics, art history, celebrity gossip, consumerism, interstate travel and cultural taboos. Together we will examine the process of gathering ideas from disparate sources and combining them with one?s own thoughts, perspective, and personal style. With demonstrations, discussions, and review of participants? previous work, we?ll explore drawing in a wide variety of media, including graphite, colored pencil, marker, and collage to find new sources of inspiration and new ways to express your unique vision.

Registration required by 2/10, for more information visit http://asld.org

NEW PLUS GALLERY VIDEO NOW ONLINE! JENNY MORGAN: SELF PORTRAIT

2012-02-02T13:17:00.000-08:00

"Jenny Morgan - Self Portrait" is the first video composition of the acclaimed young painter from New York City who began her career in Denver, CO with Plus Gallery just eight years ago. Morgan discusses the more intimate details of several of her most compelling paintings of the last 4 years, works that have defined her as one of the top emerging talents in the US. Known for her exquisite and revealing self portraits as well as her interpretations of other people in her life, Morgan's body of work redefines the genre of contemporary portraiture.

Filmed in August, 2011 at the end of her summer residency in Denver, Colorado. Directed by Plus Gallery owner Ivar Zeile and assistant Ryan Pattie. Composition and editing by Ryan Pattie.

http://vimeo.com/36023482

Jenny Morgan - Post Denver

NINE JENNY MORGAN PAINTINGS FROM PRIVATE COLLECTIONS GO ON VIEW THIS THURSDAY AT THE CVA IN THE EXHIBITION "OUT / FIGURED"

2012-02-02T13:14:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Jenny Morgan will have nine recent paintings on view, including her most recently completed self portrait "Can't Believe," in the group exhibition "Out FIGURED" opening this Thursday evening at Metro State's Center for Visual Arts.

"Can't Believe," detail, 2012

The CVA will host members and the artists for a private reception from 6-7pm, followed by the public reception from 7-9pm.

Jenny will be in town for the exhibition, we expect a good fan-club to be in attendance for the opening of this terrific exhibition, a pre-cursor to her upcoming solo exhibition this May here at Plus Gallery.

For more information visit http://www.MetroStateCVA.org
The exhibition is on view through April 7, 2012

CVA Hours: Tuesday-Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday noon-5pm.
Admission is free.

Opening Reception Friday, January 27th for Apocalypse HOW at Plus Gallery

2012-01-27T09:32:00.000-08:00

LARRY BOB PHILLIPS FEATURED ON UNTITLEDARTSHOW.COM THIS WEEK

2012-01-27T09:29:00.000-08:00

http://untitledartshow.com/Apocalypse? HOW! has the distinct honor of presenting two national artists works to the Denver community. Larry Bob Phillips is one of the discoveries that we've been thrilled to present, he joins us this week and for the reception, having traveled from his hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Those looking for advance insight into his work can visit http://untitledartshow.com and listen to the podcast of this last Wednesday's interview with Eric and Mike. Larry Bob also delivered a guest artist lecture at CU Boulder this last Thursday evening in association with the art department at the school.

NINE JENNY MORGAN PAINTINGS FROM PRIVATE COLLECTIONS TO GO ON VIEW AT THE CVA NEXT WEEK IN "OUT / FIGURED"

2012-01-27T09:28:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Jenny Morgan will have nine recent paintings on view, all from some of our best local art collections, starting next week at Metro State's Center for Visual Arts in the group exhibition "Out FIGURED." Jenny will be in Denver for a few days to celebrate the opening of the exhibition, which is on Thursday, February 2nd. The CVA will host members and the artists for a private reception from 6-7pm, followed by the public reception from 7-9pm. The occasion marks a watershed moment in Morgan's career, one in which she is finding both enormous acclaim for her hard-hitting work as well as significant collector interest across the country. Plus Gallery has been thrilled to be an integral part of her career, and in celebration of the unique display of her works, many of which have not been formally presented in Denver, we'll be releasing a new video profile of the artist next week titled "Jenny Morgan: Self Portrait" both online as well as at the CVA exhibition. Stay tuned for more details next week, and mark your calendars for Jenny's first return to Denver of 2012.

The CVA is located at 965 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO

PLUS GALLERY ARTIST DOUGLAS WALKER CURRENTLY FEATURED IN THE WORLD'S MOST STUNNINGLY GORGEOUS EXHIBITION

2012-01-27T09:25:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Douglas Walker has undertaken one of the most ambitious bodies of work possibly in the world, one that started with his extraordinary Plus Gallery painting "A-601" back in 2009, a massive work in oil on paper that was the centerpoint of our Biennial exhibition "You Are Here." Walker has continued to build on that work for recent institutional exhibitions throughout Canada, with paintings of such enormous scale and dexterity it's almost impossible to fathom. On January 12th he opened his most recent and ambitious viewing of the works in the exhibition "Other Worlds" at the Dalhousie Art Gallery, the oldest public art gallery in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We applaud Walker's efforts and envy anyone with the opportunity to view the exhibition during its run through March 4th. Here are a few select images from the artists scrapbook during the installation of the show (with Dalhousie text on the show following).

From the Dalhousie Web Site:
Douglas Walker: Other Worlds
Curated by Peter Dykhuis and Corinna Ghaznavi

Organized by the Dalhousie Art Gallery in partnership with the Robert McLaughlin Gallery and the Kelowna Art Gallery.

Douglas Walker's mostly monochromatic blue paintings on paper from the past decade are executed in a manner that pays homage both to historical fine art illustration and the graphic production strategies found in "outsider art" and tattoo culture. For the past few years Walker's imagery has revolved around three motifs: fantastical, other-worldly landscapes with mutant, modernist architectural structures; portraits of mid-20th Century women in which, for example, garments and hair morph into plant-like image-fields; and sinewy floral tendrils that parallel graphic flourishes, also from another century. All images and surfaces are finished in a top-coat of Walker's invention that simulates crackled 18th Century Delft-blue ceramic glazing - which itself quotes the Chinese porcelain that was highly valued by the colonial Dutch traders. These paintings are Walker's visitations to other places - perhaps real, perhaps imagined - where exotic graphic figures, human and otherwise, float in science fiction-like fields and atmospheres.

Walker has created new works for Other Worlds that synthesize pictorial components of his previous work into single images which are filled in with obsessively rendered references to cellular structures and organic matter. And Walker has significantly increased the size of these works. Indeed, the first installation of Other Worlds, which occurred this past Fall at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa, Ontario, featured a nearly full-scale image of a sperm whale flanked on one side by a moon-like celestial body and on the other by an androgynous mask-like human, and occupied an entire 77' long wall.

Alongside the work installed at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery, this exhibition will present five new pieces that Walker has produced specifically for the Dalhousie Art Gallery: a modernist office building in a landscape, a suspension bridge, a large wave, a tree, and a human body laid out horizontally in a tomb-like structure. These works allude to transitory life forms, energy fields and natural forces in states of flux that are juxtaposed with engineered constructions which penetrate the sky or connect opposite shores over dangerous waters. Remaining poetically unfixed in specific meaning, Walker's images appear to be assuredly rooted in an experience of earth that we collectively know. Yet there are too many little slippages, distortions and embellishments within the images to make us feel certain whether what we are looking at is from this world - or another.

PLUS GALLERY ARTIST WILLIAM BETTS AWARDED NEW AMERICAN PAINTINGS ANNUAL PRIZE

2012-01-27T09:23:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery is extremely pleased to announce that artist William Betts has just been awarded the Annual Prize from New American Paintings. The panel for the Annual Prize consists of three previous NAP jurors including Bill Arning, Director, The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston (CAMH), James Rondeau, Curator and Chair of Contemporary Art, Art Institute of Chicago, and Peter Boswell, Senior Curator, Miami Art Museum.

In a world in which artists of all fields are multiplying faster than at any period of time in history, it is a true honor to have worked with a number of individuals from the start of their careers who have proven to be of extraordinary depth and talent in relation to their peers. We always say the best reason to become a patron is the lifelong connection to those artists as they develop and reach new heights. William Betts is a particular case in point, it was apparent from his very first exhibition with the gallery back in 2005 that he had something immensely special to deliver to the world. His growth and development has been staggeringly profound, showing a level of intellect and maturity beyond compare. In less than ten years he has built a sizeable following around the continent, with representation at some of the top tier galleries in the top-tier markets. We are proud to continue working with William, he is really at a point in his career where the greater market interests could easily dominate his time and output. We applaud William for his most recent distinction from NAP, one that is likely to be just the first of many high-level accolades that he will encounter in his career.

For those who are not familiar with NAP, it is a publication and organization that focuses specifically on painters of merit from across the country. With each issue, they ask an established art curator to jury a specific region of the country, culled from submissions that come from individual artists and galleries alike. Numerous Plus Gallery artists have been accepted into the publication over the years, including Melissa Furness, Lenka Konopasek, Karen McClanahan, Kate Petley, Jenny Morgan, Colin Livingston, Robin Schaefer and John Hull. William, however, has been juried into the publication an unprecedented number of times, including editions #60, #72, #84 and most recently as an Editor's Pick in #96. It is no doubt because of this distinction that he was selected as one of the ten artists up for the Annual Prize this year, and for us it is no surprise that the jury selected his work for the award, his output being as singular, honest and engaging as any in the world.

To read the full report from NAP and a recent interview with William, visit the link here:
http://newamericanpaintings.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/nap-annual-prize-winner-william-betts/
Plus Gallery will display a small portion of Betts works from his career on the second floor of the gallery, in celebration of his award and in anticipation of his forthcoming solo exhibition here in April.

PLUS GALLERY'S "NEW ABSTRACTION TODAY" FORUM NOW ON YOUTUBE

2012-01-27T09:21:00.000-08:00

Last week Plus Gallery presented the forum "New Abstraction Today: Four Essential Plus Gallery Artists" to an enthusiastic and full house. For those who were unable to attend, or anyone wishing to further scrutinize the evening's proceedings, we've posted documentation of the forum online in seven parts, the first of which can be found at

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTbODiWD_mM

Special thanks to Plus Gallery assistant Ryan Pattie for the documentation and upload

PLUS GALLERY TO OPEN "APOCALYPSE? HOW!" FOUR PERSON EXHIBITION NEXT FRIDAY, JANUARY 27TH

2012-01-19T12:25:00.000-08:00

Those who have enjoyed the four-part serialization by local writer Nancy Hightower "The Four Horsemen" may be wondering what it could possibly mean. We asked Nancy to ply her exceptional creative writing skills to an exhibition that we've been devising over the last eight months that brings two searingly awesome national artists together with two local talents that we've had our eyes on for a while now. The apocalyptic theme seems to resonate within all of the artists work, at least we felt it to be a useful and timely model to add cohesion for the start of the year 2012. But what really distinguishes the group more than anything is the detailed, personal approach to drawing and works on paper that is elevated above the norm. We hope that you will find the same level of engagement and interest in the works of Drew Englander, Donald Fodness, Paul Nudd and Larry Bob Phillips as we do, and will come see an exhibition unlike any other in the gallery history.

    Drew Englander and Donald Fodness represent two of Denver's premier up-and-coming artists, both distinguishing themselves through their graphic abilities and distinct voices within Denver's scene in recent years. Englander is a recent fine-arts graduate of the Rocky Mountain School of Art and Design and no stranger to the contemporary exhibition field. His first involvement with Plus Gallery was inclusion in the 2008 three-person exhibition "Trickle Down," the final intern-curated show to be hosted at Object + Thought and certainly the most provocative. Englander presented a more expansive view of his work at Denver's Illiterate Gallery in 2010, one that started to render a signature feel to his output, which consisted of almost microscopically detailed renderings of explosions (or "Growths" as the artist named them) as well as body parts and figures merging into one another. Englander has been involved in multiple performance works with his RMCAD compatriots and in 2011 started to develop national recognition for his music entity "Real Magic."
       Donald Fodness, the lead inspiration for "Apocalypse? HOW!" has certainly achieved a level of distinction that is rare amongst emerging artists not only in Denver but anywhere in the county. Three of his last four exhibitions since 2010 were invitations from the areas most prestigious curators, including his major installation piece for last year's groundbreaking "Blink!" new media exhibition at the Denver Art Museum. Fodness was fresh from receiving his MFA in painting from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and showing all the brashness of youth with works that defied painting per-se and ranged more into the extraordinary, merging painting, installation, video, and just about everything along with the kitchen sink. But at the heart of his output are works on paper that read like high-school journals, featuring a largely indescribable random quotient. According to Fodness, "I use seemingly benign, somewhat enticing, imagery to draw my audience into a layered and unsettling world of complexities. Among the kitsch and banal I cram the gross, grotesque, obnoxious, and weird." That, along with a haze of spray paint, maybe just to affirm that it's use needn't be relegated to the sides of buildings.
        Completing the quartet of Horseman are two of the more premier emerging artists on the national level, Albuquerque's Larry Bob Phillips and Chicago's Paul Nudd. With drawing as his primary medium for the last ten years, Phillips utilizes a mature cartoon-based language that responds to psychedelic impulses to "create a form that has plasticity and transformation as its explicit focus, allowing the viewer to experience the paranoid formalism of the image where nothing is anything, but everything is something." The result is a densely wrought explosion on paper and panel rendered in dark-black ink that has a steady focus positioning humanity at its most base instincts in natural settings that are no-doubt influenced by his New Mexico surroundings. Like many artists of today, Phillips has successfully expanded his context beyond the traditional "work on paper", having realized major installations and full-wall drawings that brazenly expound the surreal impact of his work. The psycho-sexual nature of his latest drawings for "Apocalypse? HOW!" affirm his desire to mimic the "violent pregnancy within modern painting" that French painters like Bonnard, Braque and Van Gogh instilled at the turn of the last century.
        In less than ten years, Chicago artist Paul Nudd has truly pushed the envelope of the subversive in contemporary art, with a wide-ranging output that includes sculpture, video and works on paper of all dimensions and mediums. What pulls them together is their extremely grotesque nature that is densely wrought and successfully engages a wide-variety of colors and textures that have been aptly referred to as "icky." With solo exhibition titles such "Vomitromiton" and "Pus Lust," one might wonder what the visual appeal might be in the artists work, but there is no doubting the high artistic level that Nudd achieves in making the icky appealing. His 9' tall "Brainiac Cack" will stand perhaps as the ringleader of the apocalyptic vision put forth by the rest of the artists in the exhibition.
        "Apocalypse? HOW!" will open with "Rapture," a public reception/celebration on Friday, January 27th starting at 6pm. We'll be pouring Great Divide "Hades" beer that night in celebration. Expect the unexpected!

The Ooey Gooey Aesthetics of Subversive Drawer Paul Nudd
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPi8oXgr6BM

Donald Fodness in Blink!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xrc8QZJQciY

Larry Bob Phillips
http://larrybobphillips.com

SAVE THE DATE: MIKE WHITING IN GOCA EXHIBITION "SUBURBIA" OPENING FEB. 10TH IN COLORADO SPRINGS

2012-01-19T12:22:00.000-08:00

In a place and time where suburbs are the norm, where generic is acceptable and conformity is all too often celebrated, GOCA presents an alternative view of 'burbs. This exhibition examines urban sprawl, the suburban landscape, urban fauna and domestic objects through found materials, sculpture and video. The work in this show uses humor and nostalgia to create a sense of place and familiarity in a cookie-cutter world.

Plus Gallery artist Mike Whiting joins two of the areas top artists Phil Bender and Christopher Coleman, along with national artist Michael Salter, for this special exhibition. Whiting has produced a number of new small-scale works for the exhibition, all in his clean, distinct style that has made him one of the most popular artists to collect from the Plus Gallery stable and beyond.

The Gallery of Contemporary Art will host an Opening Reception for the exhibition on Friday, February 10 from 6 - 9 pm.

Whiting is being honored for his merits and standout success as an emerging artist with an unprecedented exhibition later this spring at the BYU Art Museum in Utah. He'll have a solo exhibition of his large-format outdoor works on display for a year at the Museum, one of the most prestigious school museums in the country that will draw patrons from across the world for their upcoming NEA funded "Beauty and Belief: Crossing Bridges with the Arts of Islamic Culture." We'll have more information and details relating to Mike's first Museum exhibition in an upcoming newsletter.

New Whiting sculptures ready for "Suburbia"

FINAL WEEK FOR FRANK T. MARTINEZ EXHIBITION "OUT / LINE"

2012-01-19T12:20:00.000-08:00

This is the final week of Frank T. Martinez' solo exhibition "Out / Line," the artists fifth concise body of work and the fourth to be presented at Plus Gallery. Martinez has stepped forward with a solid new direction in structural abstraction that has a profound resonance in the gallery as a collection of works, exuding a distinct surface beauty that applies his long-standing context of layering in an original, remarkable way. These are works that have to be seen in person to fully appreciate, and as one recent visitor pointed out, "They feel so much like Denver." The exhibition will be on view through this Saturday during regular hours or by appointment.

Frank T. Martinez: Untitled 5-15
60 x 80 inches, acrylic on panel, 2011

SAVE THE DATE: OUT/FIGURED FEATURING JENNY MORGAN AND OTHERS AT CVA FEB. 2ND

2012-01-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

The Metropolitan State College of Denver, Center for Visual Art presents Out FIGURED, an exhibition where emotive interpretations of the human figure are explored. The exhibition will feature 9 major paintings spanning the last four years by Plus Gallery artist Jenny Morgan, all from local collections. Other artists on view in this prestigious group exhibition include John Coplans (1920-2003), Corvo Brothers (Boulder, CO), Irene Delka McCray (Denver, CO), Marie Vlasic (Denver, CO) and Christina West (Atlanta, GA)

The exhibition will open with a reception on Thursday, February 2nd from 7-9pm. Jenny Morgan will be in Denver for the opening and will also be giving a brief talk about her work at the opening, not to be missed!

OUT FIGURED
February 2 - April 7, 2012
Opening Reception: Thursday, February 2, 7-9pm

CVA - 965 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO 80204
www.metrostatecva.org

Jenny Morgan: We are all setting suns, 2010

MAJOR BILL AMUNDSON INTERVIEW "GRAPHOMANIACAL" JUST PUBLISHED IN OPEN LETTERS MONTHLY

2012-01-12T14:16:00.001-08:00

A new interview with Plus Gallery artist Bill Amundson was published earlier this week in Open Letters Monthly, available for your viewing and reading pleasure at:

http://www.openlettersmonthly.com/

http://www.openlettersmonthly.com/graphomaniacal/

GET YOUR RESERVATION NOW FOR JANUARY 18TH ABSTRACTION FORUM AT PLUS GALLERY

2012-01-12T14:12:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery will host the forum "New Abstraction Today: Four Essential Plus Gallery Artists" on Wednesday, January 18th beginning at 7pm. The forum is presented in conjunction with the Clyfford Still Museum's community wide celebration of the recent opening of the prestigious museum. Come listen to four of our represented artists who have consistently upheld new methods of abstraction within the Denver community and beyond. Frank T. Martinez, Kate Petley, Bruce Price and Dave Yust will discuss their place and what abstraction means in the contemporary milieu.

An rsvp by January 14th is necessary to attend the event, please contact ivar@plusgallery.com or call 303-296-0927

Martinez, Petley, Yust and Price

KATE PETLEY'S "GLINT: TIME AND LIGHT" VIDEO NOW ON YOUTUBE

2012-01-12T14:09:00.001-08:00

Kate Petley's "Glint: Time and Light", included in 'Specific Environments: Landscape as Metaphor" curated by Leanne Goebel

http://youtu.be/0Ge0A6n5BBE

WESTWORD NAMES "FRAME OF MIND" ONE OF BEST ART MOMENTS IN 2011

2012-01-12T14:08:00.002-08:00

http://blogs.westword.com/showandtell/2011/12/fifteen_best_denver_art_moment.php?page=2

ILLITERATE BLOG NAMES BILL AMUNDSON AND XI ZHANG TWO "BEST-OF" 2011's IN THE ARTS

2012-01-12T14:08:00.000-08:00

http://www.illiteratemedia.com/blog/view/520

THE FOUR HORSEMEN - PART 4 (The Final chapter)

2012-01-12T14:06:00.001-08:00

A smile breaks out on Death's face as Abjection quietly glides in on her tendrils, followed by their sister Carnival. They're tall, like their brothers, but Abjection is the oldest, and makes the siblings behave. Carnival is the most mischievous of them all and playfully pounces on Conquest-she's a big girl, all fleshy bulges and throaty laughter. Her brother calls for War to help him since she's already got him pinned to the ground, but Abjection throws out more warning tendrils to make them stop the horseplay. The colors of her robe change from grey to green to black as she glides towards the open door, followed eagerly by Death and the others. She is the connection between them and the world, between the self and other, and even the Fates cannot bind or harm her in any way. It was by her guile alone that the brothers escaped to this place, this sacred space where they could become something more than those dreaded mythological horsemen. They had painted the grotesque visions with which their mothers had tortured them, tinged with the echo of Carnival's laughter and sticky slime that stained the places where Abjection had been. The brothers couldn't wait to show the patrons below those beautiful nightmares. After all, the apocalypse was coming. Oh yes, as surely as the sun rose every morning over the horizon, it would happen. But exactly how-that was the question to which they had few answers, only a vague uneasy feeling that perhaps it was coming sooner than they had thought.

- Nancy Hightower, 2011

The Four Horsemen Part 3

2012-01-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

They huddled in that upper room for more than a month, almost driven mad with the visions of merciless chaos that their mothers had left them. One morning they found a stack of canvasses, paints, and pens by the door - the door that would remain locked during their stay. Show us, the note on top of the pile had said. Death nodded and picked up a canvas, thankful to finally have something to do with his hands. Hot tears stung his eyes as he began to paint, and the interwoven lives and deaths began to take shape in images and story. Finally, he could see meaning and how he was related to birth and creativity in all of its forms. War and Conquest were slower to join in-they missed going about to the ends of the earth, wreaking havoc, but all of that had been at their mother's bidding. Once they began to draw, ah, they discovered just how blinded and used they had been, thinking all this time they were part of some majestic destiny when really their actions had been dictated by petty human greed and nationalistic pride. But soon all accounts would be settled, for at last the hour is come, the knob turns, and the door opens.

The Four Horsemen, Part 3 - by Nancy Hightower, 2011

The Four Horsemen, Part 2

2012-01-12T14:03:00.000-08:00

The hour passes too slowly, and now Famine looks towards the door with a lick of his lips. His belly shamefully protrudes over his belt. He is walking paradox-always fat yet famished, for it is the greed of others that feeds his hunger and denies any satiation. Death looks at his brother with pity, for he knows neither hunger nor desire. He was the hardest to convince to leave their mothers-the Three Fates-when the time came. Death was a momma's boy after all, tall and awkward, never knowing what to do with his hands. But it sickened him to sit at his mother's feet and catch the lives she cut. It wasn't until after they snuck away in the dead of night, asking anyone for sanctuary and finding none, that the gallery owner opened his doors and said, come and see.

The Four Horsemen, Part 2 - by Nancy Hightower, 2011

THE FOUR HORSEMEN COMETH......

2012-01-12T14:00:00.000-08:00

They sit in a poorly ventilated upstairs room, inhaling fumes of paint and pen while smearing their canvasses with the story of the world. They do not foretell doom or bring about the destruction of any-those were lies spun by their mothers-but merely record what is happening, seeing the unseen causes and effects, drawing conclusions that never occur to the guests celebrating downstairs. Conquest stares bemusedly at his pastels and wishes he could be drinking wine with the patrons below, but it is not allowed, as his brother War reminds him every time he makes for the door. The twins Famine and Death paint in silence, biding their time till later tonight when the door will be opened. And then the festivities would truly begins......

..........to be continued

2011: PLUS GALLERY YEAR IN REVIEW

2012-01-12T13:57:00.000-08:00

2011 was undoubtedly a tremendous year for Plus Gallery artists and our internal endeavors to positively shape the face of Denver's contemporary landscape. We'd like to share a quick recap of some of those moments, ones that many might not be aware of and those that anyone following our weekly news and program would already have discovered. But we'll start with the largely unknown:
In 2010 we started posting what works have sold through the year on our Facebook page, we feel that it's a positive way to share information about our program and develop a certain sense of transparency. We don't always update it readily throughout the year, but we've recently posted the majority of our second half of the year sales:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.175243182512019.31084.113473022022369&type=3

Our facebook page doesn't necessarily supplant our weekly newsletter, but we are developing it as a source for exciting reports, photographs and other opportunities that our patrons might enjoy, please join us there or recommend to anyone you know who is using facebook.
One of the most pleasing reports of the year that we would like to share are the exhibitions that have officially achieved "Sold Out" status in 2011. Those that hit the mark this year are:

- Xi Zhang's "Dream Dusts" (2010/2011)

- Ali Pohl's "Mirror, Mirror" (2011)

- Bruce Price "Full" (2005)

And there are three that are very close, with only single works left from each:

- Frank T. Martinez' "Complex Conformity" (2006)

- Robin Schaefer's "Mimesis" (2008)

- Jenny Morgan "This too Shall Pass" (2009)

In 2011, Tsehai Johnson was included with a major installation in the Denver Art Museum's exceptional and unprecedented exhibition "Overthrown: Clay Without Limits," and Xi Zhang became the youngest artist ever to deliver a Logan Lecture this fall, two very rare honors that we hold in highest regard. Many of our artists have been featured in Museum exhibitions in the past but few as prestigious as the DAM. We don't expect this to be a rare occurrence in the future as our artists across the board are gaining ground in their careers and reputations, not just in the region but throughout the world. In 2012 we'll see our first International Museum presence with William Betts' inclusion in the Kunstmuseum Stuttgart's group exhibition "Tracing the Grid." Jenny Morgan will have an exquisite display of recent and some of her best works from solid local collections on view at Denver's Center for Visual Arts in early 2012 in the group exhibition "Out-Figured" which will include local as well as internationally renowned artists. Mike Whiting returns with new works in February for an exhibition at Colorado Spring's Gallery of Contemporary Art alongside local luminaries Phil Bender and Chris Coleman. And later in the Spring he'll be featured at BYU's prestigious Museum of Art in Utah with a solo exhibition that will include major outdoor works. Finally, in the fall of 2012 Dave Yust will be given some due for one of the longest and most prolific careers in contemporary art by a Colorado Artist when the Loveland Museum hosts "Dave Yust: 40 Plus years of Printmaking."

Our own schedule for 2012 holds great anticipation and excitement for us, we'll be celebrating the end of times in January 2012 with a mind-boggling exhibition of works on paper by two very excellent local emerging artists Drew Englander and Donald Fodness, alongside two national artists of amazing talent and visceral visual intensity Larry Bob Phillips and Paul Nudd. Expect lots of surprises as we look to see if the Rapture is really upon us. Things get down to serious business thereafter as we host solo exhibitions by three of our top artists Xi Zhang, William Betts and Jenny Morgan. The fall will include the next solo exhibition from Karen McClanahan, an artists who has been with us from almost our very beginnings in 2001, and the rarest of rare a new solo exhibition by Susan Meyer.
2011 had so many great moments for Plus Gallery, from our first exhibition of the year by Melissa Furness that featured a full-wall video installation and some of the most intricate and genre expanding paintings of any year, to our most recent solo by Frank T. Martinez, his fourth and absolutely finest body of work yet. In between we hosted our first photography show in our current space featuring Patti Hallock's timeless, playful, stunningly composed "The West Is Here" in conjunction with Denver's Month of Photography celebration, followed by our only group exhibition of the year, the highly praised "Peaking the Edge" which featured not only some of the best talent from around the US but two terrific artists from New Zealand Shannon Novak and Sara Hughes. The exhibition ended up being wonderfully redefined following our Broadway Corridor Public Art Celebration as a team of young artists led by Liz Greene presented one of most memorable performances in recent memory. But even that couldn't prepare us and the city for what followed: Allie Pohl's debut solo exhibition at Plus "Mirror, Mirror." Allie created one of the most breathtaking and magical installations in the history of the gallery, progressing her "Ideal Woman" theme further with a floor-to-ceiling caryatid form in chromed resin, surrounded by mirrors that reflected the ideals of the online dating scene. Oh, and there was her neon and video loop too that accompanied the show. We could have just ended our careers there, going out on a high note, but nevertheless we continued forward and hosted our ten year anniversary in conjunction with a new set of paintings from Gabriel Liston. Liston presented his best work to date with an intimate collection of full-color and striking black-and-white scenes depicting youth at its finest and most real. The show and our anniversary also found us with one of the best gifts we could ever receive, a site-specific exterior graphic application for our canopy developed from across the world by Shannon Novak, an artist whom we've grown to admire quite a bit since striking up a relationship in 2010. After some well-needed time off at the end of the summer, we returned in our finest form yet with Robin Schaefer's latest highly nuanced and thoughtful body of work "Unlearning the Differences." We'll never forget the pairing of sister and brother that month in the space as Kagen Schaefer unveiled a work of the most extreme detail, beauty and inspiration to a select and appreciative crowd, his one of a kind desk commissioned by legendary contemporary film director Darren Aronofsky. And of course that was followed by the return of Bill Amundson in October with "Blurred Vision," an exhibition that broke many records for the gallery including the first time ever having to turn people away at the door for his unprecedented artist talk. And of course none of this would have been possible without our terrific team of interns, who supported the gallery program and helped us get through all of the exciting (and not-so exciting) times.

Happy Holidays to all!

MARTINEZ IMAGES POSTED ONLINE FOR CURRENT EXHIBITION "OUT / LINE"

2012-01-12T13:43:00.000-08:00

All of the major paintings in Frank T. Martinez' new exhibition "Out/Line" are now posted on the Plus Gallery website, we encourage taking a look and paying a visit to see them in person, there is no way to replicate the surface quality of these works in an online image. The layout of the exhibition also makes a major statement in regards to this latest body of work by Frank as well as his working method, the variety in scale and color composition resonates as much as anything on view at the gallery all year. Plus Gallery celebrated the opening of the exhibition last Thursday evening with a highly enthusiastic response. The exhibition will be on view through January 21st, we'll have a reduced schedule of hours between December 23rd and January 1st, which we'll post in next week's newsletter.

JON RIETFORS INTERVIEW FROM LOVELAND SHOW

2012-01-12T13:41:00.001-08:00

The Loveland Museum of Art opened up a solo exhibition of works by Plus Gallery artist Jon Rietfors last Friday. In conjunction with the exhibition the Museum posted an interview with Rietfors online at

http://www.ci.loveland.co.us/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=8833

ALLIE POHL'S LATEST EXHIBITIONS AND INTERVIEW FROM LA

2012-01-12T13:40:00.000-08:00

Allie Pohl has been making quite a dent in the LA scene already since moving there last year, with inclusion in a number of group exhibitions including the current "Tender Is the Night" now on view at Marine Contemporary as well as "Daybreak" at Emma Gray which opens today. A new interview with Pohl was posted last week on the art blog Argot and Ochre, check it out online at

http://argotandochre.com/2011/12/interview-with-allie-pohl/

Pohl Installation at Marine Contemporary in LA

FAREWELL TO DENVER POST ART CRITIC KYLE MACMILLAN

2011-12-15T12:38:00.000-08:00

Serious art coverage in Colorado took a major hit last week as Denver Post Art Critic Kyle MacMillan announced his acceptance of a buyout package from the paper. MacMillan reflected on his departure over the weekend with the following article:

http://www.denverpost.com/entertainment/ci_19451576?utm

MacMillan had a very poignant statement to make towards the end of the article, one that we think bears repeating here:

"The arts are not a luxury but an essential part of life. They probe the very essence of what it means to be human, taking us on emotional journeys that bring us face to face with our weaknesses and sorrows, but that also lift us to incredible heights of joy."
We couldn't agree more. There is much doubt as to whether the Post will find a replacement for MacMillan and to what extent his departure will diminish their arts coverage. We can only see it as a big loss for our community and another black-mark on regional arts journalism in general following the demise of the Rocky Mountain News two years prior.

PLUS GALLERY ARTISTS IN EXHIBITIONS THROUGHOUT COLORADO AND NY

2011-12-15T12:37:00.000-08:00

Jon Rietfors: "Value Added" solo exhibition. Opens December 9th, on view through March 25th at the Loveland Museum of Art

Kate Petley: "Gline: Time and Light" installation in group exhibition. Opens December 2nd, on view through January 14th at the Lincoln Center Art Gallery in Fort Collins

Tsehai Johnson: "Strange Beauty: Baroque Sensibilities in Contemporary Art" group exhibition. Opens December 6th, on view through February 14th, 2012 at IDEA Space in the Edith Kinney Gaylord Cornerstone Arts Center, Colorado College, Colorado Springs

Justin Stewart: "Fully Empty #2" installation in group exhibition "The Longest Night. "Opens December 9th, on view through December 18th at Gowanus Ballroom in Brooklyn, NY

Melissa Furness: "A Feminine Contemporary Sublime" group exhibition. On view through December 21st at the A.I.R. Gallery in NYC

PLUS GALLERY LIMITED EDITION HOLIDAY T-SHIRTS FEATURING BILL AMUNDSON ARTWORK NOW AVAILABLE!

2011-12-15T12:36:00.000-08:00

Long time followers of Plus Gallery can rely on one thing each year: A classy design on a t-shirt featuring artwork by one of our artists. Not quite true, we failed to deliver last year, but we are more than making up for it with a new t-shirt design this year with imagery and text culled from Bill Amundson's recent block-buster exhibition, specifically his scathing commentary on the art-world found in "Art Speak Remote." This year's design is printed on high-quality American Apparel shirts which feel great against the skin. We've also upped the ante with a three-color silk-screen, the first in gallery history! The men's version is slightly different than the ladies, but all are available in three different sizes and limited to an edition of 36 of each. Get yours now, we'll have them available starting tomorrow evening at Frank T. Martinez opening reception and Plus Gallery holiday soiree at a cost of $35 each. Get yours while you can!

Frank T. Martinez models Plus Gallery holiday shirt

PLUS GALLERY CONCLUDES 2011 WITH RETURN OF FRANK T. MARTINEZ IN "OUT/LINE"

2011-12-15T12:33:00.000-08:00

OPENING RECEPTION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8TH FROM 6-9PM

Plus Gallery welcomes Denver artist Frank T. Martinez back with his fourth solo exhibition "Out / Line" from December 8th, 2011 through January 21st, 2012. Since debuting with the gallery in 2004, Martinez has become one of the most appreciated and acclaimed abstract painters in the region. Martinez works in series, each an extension but quite different from the last, exploring a particular concept in depth and to its conclusion. His paintings generally combine multiple layers of paint applied through different techniques, the end result typically loaded with symbolic content that is thoughtful and visually captivating. "Out / Line" might be his most dense and fascinating body of work yet, the new series exerting intricate line-play that hints at subtleties beneath the surface as well as bold flashes bursting through that create a gorgeous, compelling surface texture. The new collection is an extremely rich exploration into pattern, architecture, color, and density, all seeming to combine with a poetic tension that stimulates the visual senses. The exhibition is presented in conjunction with the grand opening of the Clyfford Still Museum as an extension of hallmark ideas and the continuation of abstraction as a formidable practice in painting today. Join Plus Gallery in welcoming Frank T. Martinez back to the gallery with an opening reception and holiday party on Thursday, December 8th from 6-9pm.

On Wednesday, January 18th at 7pm Plus Gallery will host "New Abstraction Today: Four Essential Plus Gallery Artists." This forum brings together four of the gallery's represented artists who have consistently upheld new methods of abstraction within the Denver community and beyond. Frank T. Martinez, Kate Petley, Bruce Price and Dave Yust will discuss their place and what abstraction means in the contemporary milieu. Presented in conjunction with the community celebration of the opening of the Clyfford Still Museum. Reservation required, please RSVP to ivar@plusgallery.com

TELLURIDE'S TAKE ON CLYFFORD STILL MUSEUM

2011-12-15T12:30:00.001-08:00

By now most everyone has either visited or heard about the latest in Denver's significant new infrastructure of institutional gems dedicated to art with the recent opening of the Clyfford Still Museum. Two of our good friends from Telluride were recently in town for a tour, and has this report to share on their Still experience in their blog tellurideinside:

http://www.tellurideinside.com/2011/11/clyfford-still-museum-open-in-denver.html

JON RIETFORS ADDS VALUE TO THE LOVELAND MUSEUM OF ART STARTING DECEMBER 9TH

2011-12-15T12:29:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Jon Rietfors has been a curator's favorite ever since emerging as an artist with his trademark approach to dimensional photography, utilizing consumer packaging as the substrate for his creations. Denver's Center for Visual Arts just featured the artist in the summer group exhibition "Reclamation" with three recent examples of his work, and next month the Loveland Museum of Art follows suite with a more expansive solo exhibition of Rietfors work as a post-Chuck Close tribute to a particular approach to contemporary art.

Rietfors "Value Added" will open next Friday, December 9th with a reception up in Loveland, and will remain on view through March 25th. Don't miss this opportunity to see one of the regions most original bodies of work in depth.

View of West Glenwood Springs with Nerds Candy Packages (2009)

PATTI HALLOCK TO SPEAK ON ROBERT ADAMS TONIGHT AT CPAC, 7PM

2011-12-15T12:27:00.001-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Patti Hallock, who exhibited earlier this year at the gallery with the solo exhibition "The West is Here," is going to be speaking at the Colorado Photographic Arts Center this Wednesday night, November 30th at 7pm. This is the third lecture in a series that focus on a different book by Robert Adams, and in conjunction with the CPAC exhibit titled "Situating Robert Adams". Patti's lecture is inspired by the book "Along Some Rivers" which is a book of interviews with Robert Adams in regard to his work, career and thoughts about photography. She will discuss the ways in which his photographs and words have inspired her own work.

Patti Hallock's "Trailview" from her 2004 body of work "Nocturnal Suburbia"

The talk will take place at the CPAC gallery which is located in Lakewood in the Belmar district. For directions and info visit

http://www.cpacphoto.org/how-to-find-the-center/

NEW MIRROR PANELS AT PLUS GALLERY FROM WILLIAM BETTS

2011-12-15T12:26:00.000-08:00

William Betts has made serious progress since emerging in 2004, in a short period of time he's become one of the most fascinating and collectible artists in the international market, his approach to contemporary art truly formidable and thoroughly unique. We are currently planning for his return to center stage at Plus Gallery in 2012, but in the meantime we've just received two of Betts' recent reverse-drilled mirrored acrylic paintings which will go on display in our upstairs viewing space.

Pool I Miami Beach, October 6, 2010, 3:16pm, (2011)

William is currently featured in the Western Edition of New American Paintings, available at major bookstores nationwide. His most recent exhibition in Albequerque with Richard Levy Gallery was favorably reviewed in THE Magazine, read the report online at

http://www.levygallery.com/current/2011_betts.themag.pdf

FINAL WEEK AT PLUS GALLERY FOR BILL AMUNDSON EXHIBITION "BLURRED VISION"

2011-12-15T12:24:00.000-08:00

This is the final week to stop by Plus Gallery and view Bill Amundson's "Blurred Vision" in it's full glory. Bill will return to Denver in February of 2012 for some lectures and workshops at the Art Students League, otherwise he'll be back on the boards in Wisconsin producing more work for the foreseeable future.

We came across this report on Bill from the Wisconsin State Journal, published in January of 2011 shortly after his return to the state. We found it worth sharing, particularly in consideration of the explosive nature, quality and scale of the works he completed for our exhibition since that time:

http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/columnists/article_9cdc10e4-1865-11e0-8b6f-001cc4c002e0.html

Bill's limited edition print "Four Art Franchises: Moderno" will be available from Plus Gallery through the holiday season, and we'll also be using portions of his scathing "Art Speak Remote" for the new Plus Gallery holiday t-shirt, available starting December 8th at the opening for Frank T. Martinez new exhibition "Out / Line"

New Mens and Ladies shirts available at Plus Gallery soon!

THE LONGEST NIGHT BY R. JUSTIN STEWART @ GOWANUS BALLROOM

2011-12-15T12:21:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery aritist and sensation R. Justin Stewart will present "Fully Empty #2," a large scale installation @ Gowanus Ballroom as a part of "The Longest Night," a group exhibition that is all about paying a bit of Brooklyn-style homage to the winter solstice. Drawing inspiration from the longest night of the year, the show explores darkness and light through artworks that mesmerize and sometimes deceive the eye.

Sounds a little bit like the art world gone pagan, right? Because it is as artists contemporize ancient ritual and totemic celebration through modern artistic expression. Featured objects all but defy their materiality and toy with the peculiarities and sensualities that come with the absence of light. Labyrinthine interactive pieces play on ideas of negative and positive space, altering the atmosphere and leaving a potent experiential mark on viewers. Artworks range across media, from painting, drawing, and sculpture to photography, installation, and 3D light mapping projections and performances.

Artists include Jordan Eagles, Leandro Flaherty, Shani Frymer, Robin Hill, Jeremy Holmes, Serban Ionescu, Integrated Visions, Margaret Krug, Kate Raudenbush, Cecelia Rembert, Matthew William Robinson, Charlotte Schulz, R. Justin Stewart, Melanie Vote, Dustin Yellin, and Joshua Young.

Opening Reception
Friday, December 9, 2011
Doors open at 6pm
$5 suggested donation after 8pm

Gowanus Ballroom
55 9th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Dates & Times
December 9-11 & 16-18
Fridays: Doors open at 6pm
Saturdays: Doors open at 12pm
Sundays: 12-6
Weekdays: Viewings available by appointment, 347.460.2687

KATE PETLEY TO UNVEIL "GLINT : TIME AND LIGHT" DECEMBER 2nd IN FORT COLLINS

2011-12-15T12:19:00.002-08:00

The Lincoln Center Art Gallery in Fort Collins will unveil a new exhibition on December 9th curated by prestigious regional art critic Leanne Goebel and featuring none other than Plus Gallery artist Kate Petley with a new site-specific installation "Glint: Time and Light." Other invited artists in the exhibition include Kevin Bell, Chris Coleman, Gregory Euclide, Jenny Gummersall and Laleh Mehran, all terrific artists who have made an impact in Denver and beyond with their work. In addition, thirty four artists' work has been included, juried from a national submission.

The opening Reception will take place on December 9th from 5:00 - 8:00 P.M.

LOOKING FOR HOLIDAY GIFTS? WANT TO STIMULATE THE ECONOMY? CONSIDER SHOPPING PLUS GALLERY

2011-12-15T12:19:00.000-08:00

One of the absolute misunderstandings within the community of contemporary art is that you can't find a good bargain or even something remarkably well priced at a gallery as established as Plus. We have a number of excellent recommendations for this years holiday shopping, whether you are looking for someone special on your list or upping the ante on your own with an art investment that will leave you satiated for the rest of your life. While we always highly recommend considering the Plus Gallery artwork inventory in depth at any time, here are just a few items we think you should take note of for holiday gift-giving and receiving:

Bill Amundson Limited Edition Print

The first of it's kind for both the artist and the gallery, a high-quality print from a master artists presented in conjunction with Bill's current exhibition "Blurred Vision" and supported by Modern in Denver magazine. Available for $250 each in an edition of 58, numbered and signed by Bill.

New Plus Gallery T-Shirt

Artwork and text from Bill Amundson's savage and scintillating "Art Speak Remote" will grace this years new Plus Gallery holiday shirt, available in very high-caliber t's silkscreened in three colors in select sizes for both men and the ladies. This year's design was inspired not only by Bill's artwork but by the opening salvo at his amazing artist talk on November 4th. Available for pre-order now at $30 or at $35 once they are finished and unveiled at Frank T. Martinez exhibition opening on December 8th.

Xi Zhang - Dream Dusts book

Plus Gallery's most recent in-house publication is a tribute to the remarkable career of Xi Zhang. At just the age of 26 this artist has produced some of the most fascinating and finely-hones bodies of work by any artist we've encountered. The book looks and feels good, combining a multitude of Zhang's best and most recent works together with select text on the artist including his fascinating 2011 thesis writing. Available for $100. We might also recommend asking about some of Xi's smaller, most affordable works, just a few are left and available at the gallery.

Jenny Morgan - New Frontier

We have exactly 2 more fresh copies of our first Plus Gallery book "New Frontiers" by Jenny Morgan, at a cost of $120. After these two are gone, they will only be available by special order or direct from blurb.com for $150. A definitive collectors item and essential for all fans of Morgan's work.

Gabriel Liston's "How to draw your family"

A new and exquisite gem arrived at our doorstep recently by one of our favorite painters Gabriel Liston. His handbound "How to Draw Your Family" is a fun and inspired combination of the artist's loose, magisterial sketches and often misunderstood wit. We think it's the perfect stocking stuffer and are expecting a small run of copies to be available soon for the holidays. Cost will be based on how much we like you and/or how badly you want one. We also suggest considering any and all of the fine paintings from Liston's recent exhibition "Still on the Wrong Side of the Water" presented last july to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Plus Gallery in Denver. Did we also mention the fine and affordable "Blue Book" tiles by Liston? Also perfect for stocking or boxed, wrapped and stuck under a tree or two.

Ideal Woman & Mirror, Mirror Necklaces by Allie Pohl

Absolutely the ideal holiday gift, Allie Pohl has taken her concept of the "Ideal Woman" and developed a multi-tiered strategy for world domination, both as an artist and an icon. We expect big things from Allie in the near future following her stunning solo exhibition "Mirror, Mirror" earlier this year at Plus Gallery. We have a small supply of her necklaces, both the Ideal Woman in various colors and formats, as well as the new "Mirror, Mirror" that only the most deserving females can wear.

Plus Gallery gift certificate

Can't decide if that special someone will like that radically innovative new William Betts painting? Not sure if Bill Amundson's "Eric Cantormoretti" will bring a smile or a frown? Don't make your holiday burden more than it needs to be, consider a Plus Gallery gift certificate in whatever amount you deem worthy, available just like cash and without an expiration date.

Riva Sweetrocket paintings (if you are in Niwot)

A few of Riva Sweetrocket's most recent paintings are currently on view at the Manifest Art Gallery in Niwot, on loan from Plus Gallery for their inaugural exhibition. Sweetrocket recently left Denver for NYC, a move that we have no doubt will increase her collector base and elevate the level of her career substantially. As a result, everything left in her inventory is worth consideration now, those prices are unlikely to go anywhere but up from here. Read a little about her show in last week's report from the Longmont Times:

http://www.timescall.com/lifestyles/entertainment/ci_19349207

PLUS GALLERY THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY WEEKEND HOURS

2011-12-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

There are two weeks left to view one of the best exhibitions of the decade and now one of the most successful in recent years with 5 of the 6 major works in "Blurred Vision" already sold. Bill's return to Denver to unveil an all new body of work has been a spectacular run, there really is nothing like it either in Denver or likely in the world of contemporary art right now.

Plus Gallery will close early today at 2:30pm for the Thanksgiving Holiday and will remain closed on Thursday. But we'll open up again for regular hours on Friday and Saturday for a well needed respite for "Black Friday" shoppers, those visiting family in the area, or those just looking for a decent outlet to get their art fix on.

We wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving and give our own personal thanks to those who has supported us this year and throughout our ten year history. It has been remarkable to see some of our artists thrive even during tumultuous times, and for the gallery to remain standing on steady ground. None of this would be possible if it weren't for the enthusiasm of our clients, the integrity of our artists, and the extended family that has built around our program. As we get ready to head into one of our best lineups ever for 2012, all we can say is "you aint seen nothin yet!"

SDFF34 - FINAL PLUS GALLERY REPORT

2011-12-15T11:57:00.000-08:00

The Starz Denver Film Festival concluded it's 34th year this last sunday, the end of an exhausting ten days that also marked the end of the latest Denver Arts Week. Some in the community felt that Denver Arts Week would be better off not straddling the same dates as the Film Festival, others recognize it as a perfect tribute to the scene in Denver, albeit skewed towards the cinematic arts. But it might not really matter, the takeaway from both concepts is that there is excellent programming all year round hosted by the Denver Film Society, Landmark Cinemas and a handful of other specialized pockets that aficionados can get their fill from, just as one can within the hyper-robust visual art scene at all moments of the year throughout the Denver community. To celebrate it in a concentrated effort once a year can bring out some of the best, as it did in the case of Bill Amundson's artist talk as well as many of the terrific screenings held by SDFF. Our only issue is the recurring bad-cold that tends to wash out half of the opportunities at hand this time of the year. It happens that way every year......

One thing the festival programmers sure know how to do is secure the films that will be on everyone's hot-sheets at year's end, at least the critical hot-sheets. This might have more to do with the timing of the festival in early November than anything else, many complain that a lot of the "big" films show up right after the festival concludes, making it partially redundant. But there are many other ways to look at the concept of the festival, and two of the best examples came with the closing night film last Saturday night and the next day's Special screening at the King Center. There seemed to be a lot of advance speculation as to the merits and audience readiness for the Michel Hazanavicius' "The Artist," a film that attempts to take the audience back in time to the silent era. While other contemporary filmmakers such as Guy Maddin have been dabbling in this arena in the most creative and engaging ways for years now, seemingly nobody has endeavored to make what could be a "popular" film that hearkens back to that bygone era. Fortunately "The Artist" had the chops to pull it off, in addition to the Weinstein stamp that will undoubtedly pull some weight come Oscar time. I think one would be hard pressed to not fall under the overwhelming charms and spells put forth in this feature; it's certainly not the best film out there, hell I dozed off through most of the last third, but it does a lot and does it well within what most would consider confining boundaries. And even though it will be unleashed to screens around the world very soon, one probably won't find a better venue than the Caulkins Opera House to view it, something no-one including the entire Starz staff, filmmaker and audience would say about the opening night film "Like Crazy." What makes "The Artist" resonate in that environment is simply that it takes us all back to a time and place where going to the theater to see a movie was a thrill, it didn't even need sound to bring an audience in. The screen at Caulkins supports the pictures now-defunct aspect ratio, almost a perfect square, which will seem completely alien to most audiences that watch it in a multiplex (or god forbid on a TV) and certain to lose a lot of it's grandeur there as a result. But at Caulkins it just filled the stage with the most striking black and white imagery, and brought back a playfulness in film that is largely lacking since the early 1920's. Of course not entirely, but that's what it felt like at the festival and that's really what the festival is about. Does this mean that others will start using outdated formats and flourishes in the coming years? Possibly..........I did also find out just yesterday that music CD's are officially out and that cassette tapes are again all the rage, at least amongst hipsters, for reasons entirely baffling to me.

The final day of the festival always holds a few gems, and considering the crowd lined up to get into the matinee screening of Cronenberg's latest "A Dangerous Method," one would think the festival was still going full-tilt. Everyone seemed to be discussing "The Artist" and whether it could really win this year's best picture award, or if that last third really was sleep inducing, or was it just the cold/flu/fatigue at festival's end???? and how much they hate the King Center for festival screenings, etc, etc.....And all of the anticipation seemed worthy of the new Cronenberg, it's definitely a riveting piece for the mind as well as the eye, nothing too fancy here save for the excellent recreation of the period and the strangely subdued, extremely thought-provoking banter amongst rival psychologists Freud and Jung. And if outmoded technology is a recurring theme, all I could think during the film was how sad it is to have lost the hand-written letter, first to email, now facebook, one day to something else. Where did these people get the time to write not just beautifully but long, flowing treatises of philosophical inspiration!! Maybe that's why both "A Dangerous Method" and "The Artist" are so timely, they strike chords in multiple ways that are so far removed from our lives, yet are only one hundred years old. Amazing. And of course, where else but the festival is one going to get to witness this in a crappy theater not meant for screening film but one that supports a large stage with no less than 5 local "Jung" specialists to dissect the film afterwards? That's the icing on the cake!

On a final note, this year is the last in which screenings will be held at the theaters in the Tivoli Center. The festival celebrated that night with screenings of some of the first films ever hosted at those screens at the inception of the festival 34 years ago. No doubt some crying ensued amongst staff and patrons that night, though we had to bow out of that nostalgia ourselves.

AND TSEHAI JOHNSON REPRISED NEXT MONTH IN COLORADO SPRINGS

2011-12-15T11:55:00.000-08:00

From December 6, 2011 to February 14, 2012 the Interdisciplinary Arts program at Colorado College will feature the exhibition Strange Beauty: Baroque Sensibilities in Contemporary Art. The exhibition presents paintings, sculpture, installation, photography, and performance art by selected Contemporary artists who revisit artistic strategies and cultural concerns of the 17th Century. The exhibition will take place in the IDEA Space, located in the Edith Kinney Gaylord Cornerstone Arts Center, 825 N. Cascade Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO. On Tuesday, December 6 beginning at 4:30 pm, the public is invited to attend an opening reception and IDEA Cabaret presentation by IDEA Curator Jessica Hunter-Larsen and the Colorado College student co-curators who contributed research to the exhibition. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Exploring some of these intersections between contemporary and Baroque culture, Strange Beauty features bodies of work by Liza Lou, Kehinde Wiley, and Sherrie Wolf, an installation by Tsehai Johnson (a reformatting of her DAM installation from the summer's blockbuster "Overthrown: Clay without Limits" exhibition) and a selection of pieces by Ken Aptekar, Jimmy Baker, Renee Cox, Andres Serrano, and Cindy Sherman. The exhibition text, written by students in the Colorado College course "The Age of the Baroque: Art and Empire in the 17th Century" will further explore connections between Baroque and contemporary art and experience.

Colorado College is a nationally prominent, four-year liberal arts college that was founded in Colorado Springs in 1874. The college operates on the innovative Block Plan, in which its 1,975 undergraduate students study one course at a time in intensive 3_-week blocks. The college also offers a master of arts in teaching degree. For more information, visit www.ColoradoCollege.edu . For directions or disability accommodation at the event, members of the public may call (719) 389-6607.

MELISSA FURNESS CURATES GROUP EXHIBITION FOR A.I.R. GALLERY IN NYC

2011-12-15T11:52:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Melissa Furness has curated a group exhibition that will also feature her work for A.I.R. Gallery in NYC, scheduled to open at the end of the month. "A Feminine Contemporary Sublime" features works by Liz Surbeck Biddle, Melissa Furness, Jan Johnson, and Nancy Lasar. The exhibition will run November 30 - December 21st, 2011 with an opening reception on Thursday, December 1st from 6:00 - 9:00pm.

In Western society, the 'sublime' was something historically described by men. The sense of what is "beyond words" manifested itself in art as images of grand landscapes and romantic spectacles of the heroic act. A Feminine Contemporary Sublime articulates a feminine perspective of the sublime understood in the
context of contemporary society, where the grand illusions of male-centric Romanticism have dissipated into a mass of social media and complex communication. In his survey of Documents of Contemporary Art on the Sublime, Simon Morley states that in modern society "the sublime is an experience looking
for a context." The works featured in A Feminine Contemporary Sublime recognize the awe produced by the "sublime experience" as an illusion of misperceived realities. 19th Century Romanticism stressed that "the transcendental ego must strive to detach itself from nature, from society, from the emotions, from the body, and above all from the feminine" (Philip Shaw in The Sublime). With this exhibition, we affirm the failure of the notion of the autonomous self elevated by the imagination's supposed ability to depict the transcendent, and instead rebuild our understanding of the sublime from a "detached" feminine point of view - a view that recognizes the multi-faceted complexity of what we perceive each day in contemporary society as a transcendent force within itself.

This feminine perspective translates the sublime into an "other" reality overwhelmed with information and emotion that ultimately produces a full and even dark contemporary sublime. The works in this exhibition present the viewer with what is familiar, and then exposes them again as a kind of "unknown." As women artists working today in our own "supersensible vocation" (Kant), we are utter multi-taskers, piling one thing upon another and balancing our layered worlds of work, family, home, in addition to navigating social media and virtual communication. This overlapping series of structures at some point breaks down and suspends thought, producing a sublime experience. In this way, the sublime has transformed into multi-layered meanings and forms that are fragmented and contradictory-a kind of super anti-sensible substrate. Here, there is a sense of altered place and unhinged movement, of lines that connect and disconnect, and hints of virtual worlds and information masses, all moving from the internal to the external through a cycle of broken "structures."

A.I.R. Gallery is located at 111 Front Street, #228 in the DUMBO neighborhood of Brooklyn.

http://www.airgallery.org

SHANNON NOVAK BRINGS HIS UNIQUE BLEND OF ART AND MUSIC TO TEXAS THIS WEEKEND

2011-12-15T11:49:00.000-08:00

Plus Gallery artist and New Zealand native Shannon Novak unveils a unique installation this Saturday as part of the University of Texas at Dallas Artist's residency program. "One Song, Three Composers" is Novak's latest installation that explores the interrelationships between three distinct approaches of mapping color to sound. Novak references three prominent figures in the field: Louis-Bertrand Castel (France), Richard Merrick (USA), and Michael Smither (New Zealand). Three electronic pianos form the focal point of the exhibition, each chromatically altered to represent these theorists' approaches. The keyboards form a triangle in CentralTrak's gallery, corresponding to the connection and intersection of Castel's, Merrick's and Smither's individual hypotheses. This configuration of musical instruments acts as a birthing point, propagating geometric forms imitating the unseen movement of sound. One Song, Three Composers links three schools of thought through visual abstraction, and uses duration, volume and spiritual content to reconsider the effects and nature of sound beyond pitch. Check it out if you happen to be in Dallas!

Opening reception: Saturday, November 19, 2011, 8 - 10 pm
Exhibition runs through December 17

The University of Texas at Dallas Artists Residency - centraltrak.org

CentralTrak Gallery
800 EXpOSiTiON AvE., DALLAS, TX 75226
Gallery Hours: Wed. - Sat., 12 - 5 pm

BILL AMUNDSON REPORT ON THE ILLITERATE BLOG

2011-12-15T11:45:00.000-08:00

Read what the Illiterate Blog has to report on our current exhibition by Bill Amundson here at Plus, this is from a source that specializes in radical art, works on paper and all things extremely hip in the local and international art spheres.

http://www.illiteratemedia.com/blog/view/515

SDFF34 - DOCS AND OTHER GOOD FILMS

2011-11-12T14:51:00.002-08:00

The 34th edition of the Starz Denver Film Festival is now in full swing, with screenings taking place at the Tivoli Center, the Colfax Film Center and select other locations such as the King Center and Ellie Caulkins Opera House. Opening night offered up an enticing film in "Like Crazy," an indie hit from this year's Sundance Film Festival directed by super young bad-ass filmmaker Drake Doremus (of "Douchebag" fame). It was a surprisingly good film for opening night and not-so-surprisingly received a fairly tame reception, in fact the auditorium wasn't nearly as packed as in recent years, a true sign of what the opening night wanna-be crowd generally expects. We felt that it had a lot to offer in it's absorbing execution and magnetic performers including newcomer Felicity Jones. The screening suffered from digital projection issues that apparently rendered all of the coloring in the film improperly, but if you hadn't seen it yet you'd never know that it wasn't anything more than an "artistic" choice. Guess we'll have to see what it really looks like if and when it resurfaces later in the year.

With all of the major opening presentations behind us, the community can now fall in line and get into the groove of what the festival is really about: serious, extremely heralded (in the real world of film) and often unheard of films that are labors of love or efforts to be put on the map of independent cinema. Bela Tarr's latest "The Turin Horse" falls into the category of the former, quite serious and applauded by most everyone with a deeper understanding of film as art. Reportedly the director's final film, the two and a half hour epic was an unrelenting, often mesmerizing fable that carried the director's stamp in spades (extremely long and very repetitive). Tarr's films are always dark and full of existential grist, but quite beautiful to watch and ponder, his cinematic style is not only singular but highly influential upon other directors works, most notably Gus Van Sant's better films. Though his latest and possibly last is about as depressing as can be, it's not without small, ripe doses of humor and good will. It was a challenge for sure, but those who made it through will most likely never look at a potato in the same way ever again.

On the documentary front, "A People Uncounted" stands as the yearly tribute to the holocaust and it's survivors, something that crops up not only yearly at SDFF but throughout world festivals, a topic that never seems to diminish because of the historic magnitude of the period. This particular film stands as one of the most well-crafted, something that no doubt stems from the filmmakers concept that the Gypsy People of whom the film focuses on are said to not have any relevant or known artists who have risen to major status. It puts forth many strong impressions about this largely derided group of nomads whom Hitler and others across the European continent reviled. Strong subtexts, such as pop-culture hits like Sonny and Cher's "Gypsy's, Tramps and Thieves" amongst others distill the concept in terms closer to present day, validating that the return to suppression of the Gypsies may not be as far off as one might think. There are some awefully strong, bone chilling moments, such as the recounting of Joseph Mengeles experiments with children, from a survivor who was actually on his operating table. Overall it's a very thorough and engaging experience, a well composed film with generous doses of creativity that will hopefully go far in rectifying some of the issues it purports.

MAJOR HONORS FOR DENVER'S PLATTEFORUM LAST WEEK

2011-11-12T14:51:00.000-08:00

Denver's PlatteForum received the most prestigious honor available to a national arts organization, one that took founder Judy Anderson and two of her cohorts to Washington DC for a ceremony with Michelle Obama. PlatteForum's ArtLab program received the 2011 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award from the Presidents Council on Arts and Humanities! We congratulate the group and all who have helped the organization become not just one of the most inspirational arts programs in the State of Colorado but now in the country. Read more about it at

http://blogs.westword.com/showandtell/2011/11/artlab_michelle_obama_plattefo.php

And check out the video created for the special celebration that aired last week for members and friends of the group the day of the award.

http://vimeo.com/31560265

PUBLIC INVITED TO HISTORIC RECEPTION FOR JOHN BONATH'S DMNS EXHIBITION NOVEMBER 22nd

2011-11-12T14:50:00.001-08:00

We've heard from a lot of good people who've ventured out to see John Bonath's current, massive new body of work that's on exhibit at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the first time ever that artwork has been displayed in their space. DMNS will host a reception for John on November 22nd, an event that will not be publicly announced but is open by invitation from credible sources (such as Plus Gallery!). If you plan to attend, please RSVP with your name and number in your party by Monday, November 14th to carla.bradmon@dmns.org or 303.370.6367.

Bonath's effort, which includes a stunning rendition of Udo Zeile with an ancient Rhino Skull, has received a lot of press coverage since opening including the following:

From Colorado Public Radio - Colorado Matters, aired 10/25

http://www.cpr.org/#load_article|A_Strange_Beauty_at_Denver_Museum_of_Nature_and_Science

Second Westword blog article on the show by Susan Froyd, 10/25

http://blogs.westword.com/showandtell/2011/10/john_bonath_a_strange_beauty_d.php

From Open Letters

http://www.openlettersmonthly.com/

And from an independent artist who was inspired to write about the show

http://katara-alchemist.deviantart.com/journal/#/d4eq9wp

SAVE THE DATE: FRANK T. MARTINEZ OPENING RECEPTION AND PLUS GALLERY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION THURSDAY DECEMBER 8TH 6-9PM

2011-11-12T14:49:00.003-08:00

Frank T. Martinez is going to create a major stir in Denver next December as he unveils an impressive new body of work that we've been take shape this year. This will be Frank's fourth solo exhibition with the gallery and the first in our current location. The opening reception will also serve as the Plus Gallery holiday celebration, so expect lots of merriment in addition to Frank's terrific new paintings.

JENNY MORGAN IN PROMINENT GROUP EXHIBITION IN LA, OPENING THIS FRIDAY NOVEMBER 11TH

2011-11-12T14:49:00.001-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Jenny Morgan recently completed a stellar new painting for the group exhibition "Dark Water" hosted by the Copro Gallery in Los Angeles. The exhibition, which opens this Friday night, features 29 renowned artists curated by renowned painter Martin Wittfooth. Here's the text from the press release:

"The dullest soul cannot go upon such an expedition without some of the spirit of adventure; as if he had stolen the boat of Charon and gone down the Styx on a midnight expedition in the realms of Pluto.... The silent navigator shoves his craft gently over the water, with a smothered pride and sense of benefaction, as if he

were phosphor, or light-bringer, to these dusky realms, or some sister moon, blessing the spaces with her light."

-Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)

Bringing together 29 internationally renowned contemporary painters, Dark Water is a collaborative exploration of a theme that yields both personal as well as universal interpretations. Historically in art and literature, the imagery of dark water has made a symbolic allusion to various states of the inner self, such as the murky depths of the subconscious or the raging seas of our more turbulent moods. Alternatively, in our modern age the imagery of dark water can also provoke a reflection on such topics as environmental imbalance and a global dependency on - and uneasy relationship with - the dark waters of industry.

Ferrying us across this stygian visual landscape are some of the most celebrated painters of our era. Artists in this group have their work included in such public collections as The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Brooklyn Museum, The Smithsonian Institute, and London's National Portrait Gallery, and in the private collections of such notable collectors as Leonardo diCaprio, Eric Fischl, Nike CEO Mark Parker, Robert Schiell, Howard Tullman, and Kanye West.

DOUGLAS WALKER WRAPS FIRST LEG OF PRESTIGIOUS CANADIAN MUSEUM TOUR

2011-11-12T14:48:00.001-08:00

Plus Gallery artist Douglas Walker wowed the Denver community in 2010 when he unveiled the first of his large-format paintings on paper that looked like cosmically derived, unearthed ceramics. One of the most impressively executed works ever, it was the launch into a new realm for the artist that he's been unveiling in Canada recently supported by no less than 3 Canadian Artist Grants (yes, canada actually funds spectacular artists!!). His most recent exhibition "Other Worlds" just concluded last weekend at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa, Ontario, culminating in an impressive report from Richard Rhodes in the publication Canadian Art. Read about it here and see more of the spectacular photos online as well.

http://www.canadianart.ca/online/see-it/2011/10/06/douglas_walker/

XI ZHANG BOOKS NOW IN STOCK!

2011-11-12T14:47:00.005-08:00

We just received fresh copies of Xi Zhang's new book "Dream Dusts" here at Plus Gallery, come by to take a look and purchase your copy for $100. Everyone has been very excited about this collector's item, a great takeaway from one of Denver's most loved and collected young talents.

And while we are on the topic of Xi, check out the feature on him in last week's UCD Advocate newspaper:

http://www.ucdadvocate.com/infocus/xi-zhang-drops-his-talent-on-colorado-1.2678424#.TrOSSvSXu7s

BILL RETURNS IN JANUARY FOR THE ART STUDENTS LEAGUE VISITING ARTIST SERIES MASTER CLASS

2011-11-12T14:47:00.003-08:00

Finally, Bill will be returning to Denver early next year to participate in two amazing opportunities for the Denver Arts community. Save the following dates and contact the ASLD to make your reservations or find out more info:

February 16 - Lecture and demonstration: How I Draw What I Draw

February 18-19 - Master Class: Blurred Vision, Seeing the World Your Way

http://www.asld.org

AMUNDSON WORKS ALSO ON VIEW AT GREAT DIVIDE

2011-11-12T14:47:00.001-08:00

Two of our Nation's best assets are now combined under one roof: The Tap room at Great Divide is now featuring an adjunct exhibition of several of Bill Amundson's recent works that have never been properly exhibited including two of his "American Dickheads," two drawings that reference cultural highlights in Denver, and a handful of others. There is nothing better than the beer at GD, and nothing better than looking at Bill's work while drunk. Go check it out for our month long celebration of all things Amundson.

WOW, WHAT A NIGHT!!!

2011-11-12T14:46:00.001-08:00

Overwhelming and profound are the only words to describe last Friday evening's artist talk with Bill Amundson. Thanks to the hundreds who came by to hear Bill deliver one of the most rousing and entertaining discussions on art ever in Denver, we were mesmerized! Our apologies to those who came and couldn't get in the door, we thought the house would be full but nowhere near the numbers who came by. For those who couldn't squeeze in or had other plans, we give you youtube: the entire talk was filmed up-close with good audio and picture quality, and we've posted it in three segments to our youtube page for you to enjoy at your leisure. It's particularly good for those with Apple TV to watch full screen from the couch; regardless, we think you will find it to be highly enjoyable.

The last week was a great homecoming for Bill and the immediate response to the show has surpasses anything else in the last five years. The exhibition is a terrific mixture of Bill's quintessential multi-leveled approach and button-pushing style. It will be on view through December 3rd. Bill is back in Wisconsin now but will resurface again in Denver next February for some very special events in conjunction with the Art Students League, more information on that is below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbou3CLfDA0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSAeViU22aQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3-b8_-GLpE

Believe it or not, 100's of people came by to see this man speak

PATTI HALLOCK PHOTOGRAPHS ON VIEW IN ROBERT ADAMS TRIBUTE AT COLORADO PHOTOGRAPHIC ART CENTER, OPENING NOVEMBER 4TH

2011-11-12T14:28:00.001-08:00

Robert Adams, one of the most celebrated chroniclers of Denver and the American West, influenced a generation of landscape photographers following his 1975 "New Topographics" exhibition in Rochester, NY. "Situating Robert Adams," opening at the Colorado Photographic Arts Center November 4, 2011, uses the occasion of his current retrospective at the Denver Art Museum to learn about his influence on photographers imaging the western landscape today.

The exhibition features select works by Plus Gallery artist Patti Hallock from her initial "Nocturnal

Suburbia" series, along with Peter Brown, Danae Falliers, Greg McGregor, Roddy MacInnes, Jessie Paige, Richard van Pelt and Willy Sutton.

Exhibition Dates: November 4 - December 17, 2011

Public Reception: Friday, November 4, 6-9 pm. Free

Related Events:

Wed, October 26, 6 pm: "Reading Robert Adams: Beauty in Photography" with Eric Paddock.

Location: Denver Art Museum. $15/$13 CPAC/WWA/DAM members. (Note ? space is limited. RSVP to dmitri@cpacphoto.org or call 303-837-1341

Wed, November 9, 7 pm: "Reading Robert Adams: Why People Photograph" with Roddy MacInnes & Jessie Paige. Location: CPAC. $5/$3 CPAC/WWA/DAM members.

Wed, November 30, 7 pm: "Reading Robert Adams: Along Some Rivers" with Patti Hallock.

Location: CPAC. $5/$3 CPAC/WWA/DAM members.

Gallery Tour and panel discussion:

Sat, November 19, 3 pm: with Danae Falliers, Richard van Pelt, and Willy Sutton. Free

For "Situating Robert Adams," curator Rupert Jenkins chose eight regional photographers whose works are diverse yet complimentary in approach, and which span a period of almost four decades, 1977-2011. The visual relationships between traditional and non-traditional landscape photography, and the progression of strategies used by each photographer during their careers, are informed by a series of questions and answers that lend insight into the exact nature of Adams' influence on each artist and their work.

Collectively, Peter Brown, Danae Falliers, Patti Hallock, Greg McGregor, Roddy MacInnes, Jessie Paige, Willy Sutton, and Richard van Pelt convey images of concern and admiration for the landscape that mirror those of Adams, a self-styled "democratic socialist" for whom content and aesthetics are essential elements of every meaningful image. To what degree Adams inspired each of them individually lies at the heart of this exhibition.

Rupert Jenkins (curator) is Exhibitions Director and Board Chair of the Colorado Photographic Arts Center. His most recent curatorial projects are Warhol in Colorado (co-curator with Dan Jacobs/catalog editor, Myhren Gallery, January 2011), and Double Diptych (Vertigo Art Space, March 2011).

SDFF34 - CHALLENGE YOURSELF IF YOU DARE!

2011-11-12T14:27:00.000-08:00

The Starz Denver Film Festival begins tonight, in traditional fashion with an opening night film and celebration at the magnificent Caulkins Opera House. You have to either be socially connected or a populist film fan to actually want to attend opening night, it's largely a sold out affair with a crowd-pleasing piece of cinema that won't and couldn't possibly set the audience up for the mostly respectable and occasionally sublime offerings ahead during the next ten days. Most of the films that are celebrated with fanfare to kick off the fest are already slated for major release, some as soon as this weekend; others like von Trier's "Melancholia" have been available on-demand for a while now. That's okay though, most everyone knows that the primary reason to attend is for the big-screen experience, something that "Melancholia" offers up in a major way for the Denver Filmcenter/Colfax opening night on Thursday and serves dual purpose as a major programming statement. Saturday's Big Night back at Caulkins rolls out the mostly excellent and highly admirable "The Descendents," the final prospective blockbuster before retiring into a week of substantial cinema covering all levels of the field. The festival always brings a great balance with their programming, and so far this year seems to wield wildly successful results in many areas, particularly world cinema.

As a prospective client recently related to me via email last week, "Big Night films end up at Landmark a few days after so we stick with the indies. I love them." My sentiments exactly.......and of course not everyone has the same taste in films, that's what makes the festival and reporting on it so much fun. After having screened a number of films in advance, I offer up the following for those who want to successfully navigate a few screenings without wasting much time, at least if you trust my judgement, have an open mind and a highly adventurous taste for film.

The best of the fest so far:

"Attenberg" is easily one of the festival standouts, it's almost absurd how perfectly it marries a compelling, humane narrative with some of the most distinct and elegant visuals in contemporary cinema today. Athina Rachel Tsangari delivers a thoughtful meditation on love, death, and friendship through a truly endearing father/daughter relationship that's akin to Big Night's "The Descendents" only more gratifying for those looking for a sublime visual purpose with their prose. Her graceful sensibilities for the off-kilter abound whether in tracking shots across rain-soaked tennis courts, solitary foosball games, or synchronized walking. Everything is sexualized here but in the most uncommon ways, the entire narrative leading to a climax in which the young protagonist asks her best friend to sleep with her dying father, an unusual request but one that the viewer can firmly connect with after watching the proceedings unfold. Greek society may currently be on the rocks, but lets hope filmmakers like Tsangari remain unscathed, she stands to become a world force if given the latitude and backing to press forward.

http://mubi.com/films/attenberg

The recent Canadian feature narrative "Curling" has been getting as much respect across the globe in the last year as "Attenberg," both films having screened previously at many international festivals. It's an equal to Tsangari's film in terms of elevating a major talent, something the festival programmers want to enforce by offering director Dennis Cote's debut feature "Drifting States" during the festival as well. Death seems to lurk in every corner of "Curling," with no easy answers and certainly no overbearing directives. Also centered around a father/daughter relationship, the narrative covers a lot of territory but is supremely simple at its core, constantly extending in diffuse and subtle directions. It's a mystery that keeps unraveling slowly but never concedes to any sort of conclusion or perhaps deeper perception of the characters, other than that they are human. Strange in all the right ways and places, Cote delivers an incredibly well executed film that has everything and nothing at all to do with the unusual sport it is named after.

http://mubi.com/films/curling

U.S. Independent film is usually in a tough spot when it comes to SDFF, almost every director working in the field today wants to have their screening at Sundance, which follows just three months after the Denver Fest. Many of the entries are either post-sundance big-buzz-films like "Marth Marcy May Marlene" (which gets an exclusive reel-members only screening Thursday night, just one day before the film opens in wide release) or castoffs from that net that can show up in any number of other festivals without ever really seeing a wider stage. But every year SDFF delivers a few gems and this year "The Color Wheel" seems to be one of them. It's a very refreshing film, one that many people might initially (and arguably) find aweful and pretentious but quickly catches a groove all its own that is refreshing and absolutely hilarious. The director and screenwriter are the actors at the core of the drama, exerting an off-kilter brother/sister bond. Both are equally strange and the success of the film is derived from their tight-knit relationship both on-screen and off. Shot old-school in 16mm and B&W, "The Color Wheel" is as unusual as it gets and indie to the core!

Even more unusual and frankly shocking, is "Gandu." Anyone seeking an absolutely new manifesto in contemporary filmmaking should take in this brash film, another captivating and singular work in black and white (with the most raucous, crazy-cool hardcore interlude of color ever seen) by the mysteriously named Indian director "Q overdose." The title translates to "Asshole" and even though it's been compared to the formidable work of french director "Gaspar Noe, you have definitely never seen anything like it, ever. This is what contemporary cinema should be, it pushes in many new directions that build upon its new-wave predecessors in ways that can only be accomplished today, though with extremely refined and timeless visual sensibilities. It might be easy for some to dismiss because it's overly hip and daringly non-linear in so many ways, but it has the chops to pull it off visually, sonically and as a major artistic statement. "Gandu" succeeds in ways that will leave it seared in your brain for a long, long time and leave you waiting to see what the director will do next, it's an absolute big-sreen trip. And though it is stunningly realized, it is definitively not for everyone, particularly conservative christians and maybe most of our nation's underage youth.

http://vimeo.com/19767728

Finnish director Aki Kaurismaki's universe changes little over time, and it's a lovely, singular one that you wouldn't be able to mistake for anything else. His latest is distinctly brighter in color palate than normal, which would almost seem jarring if it weren't for the director's trademark combination of clear composition and the duration that it holds. "Le Havre" reprises Kaurismaki character's from his masterpiece "Scenes from the Bohemian Life' of almost 20 years ago, with delightful results that are more uplifting than his usual fare, almost oddly so because it's such a subtle yet impactful tone he's honed over the years. Fans of the Finn will enjoy for sure and newcomers will likely grasp the warmth and oddity of the characters and action throughout.

Alexander Payne's latest "The Descendents" isn't likely to be as big a box-office smash as some of his previous films, though I wouldn't bet against it, it has George Clooney after all, cast (or at least clothed) a bit against type. But it is as thoroughly enjoyable and has as much of a slightly off-centre conscious as everything else Payne's accomplished to date. Clooney is complemented by a great cast that also goes a bit against type, the Hawaiin setting dictating much of that. Most everyone will be talking about magnetic newcomer Amara Miller as Clooney's daughter, she almost steals the show, along with her neandrethal boyfriend who has one of the most potent scenes in the film. Another mostly father/daughter psychological study, Payne methodically builds the narrative to a calmly riveting climax that doesn't overstep itself. It's likely to induce much crying and will stir genuine emotional feelings from all who take it in.

Press the eject, now:

That's what I did, or should have done in the case of three of the festival films I screened in advance. Though I wasn't surprised that "The FP" couldn't muster up the goods to become a "cult-classic" except for the inept or blind, I was completely shocked at how little I could stand actor Paddie Considine's directorial debut "Tyrannosaur," which has been singled out as a programmers pic. One might say this is an acting tour-de-force, to be expected from such a lauded and gifted actor as Considine, and it's certainly well shot. But I was thrown completely by how utterly and absolutely the piece is over-dramatized. Those who like this kind of film will probably hate all of the above (except maybe for "Le Havre" and "The Descendents"), preferring something that spoon-feeds the grool till it starts flowing from all orifices. Part-way through, one of the lead characters throws something at a framed picture of Jesus on the wall, followed immediately by a closeup of the Jesus teetering in frame.......at that point in the film I thought all hope was lost. A few moments later the rape scene indeed proved that all hope was gone, I still rode the train-wreck out but the whole thing just left a very, very bad taste in my mouth. The same could be said for the no-budget indie drama "Bad Fever," it's hard to imagine anyway walking out of this film raving about it or even giving it any regard if they make it all the way through. I did not, so I can't ultimately say it's valueless but I'm pretty certain any payoff is going to be too long in coming and removed for any discerning audience. "Attenberg" is the perfect example of how this type of narrative can and should be done, and it's certainly enough for one festival.

CELEBRATE THE LAUNCH OF DENVER ARTS WEEK THIS FRIDAY NIGHT WITH PLUS GALLERY!!! AND, BILL AMUNDSON ARTIST TALK COMMENCES AT 7PM....NOT TO BE MISSED!!

2011-11-12T14:24:00.000-08:00

Denver Arts Week begins this Friday, November 4th, launching another week-long focus on the many wonderful facets of art in our city. While most every gallery in town will be opening their doors for First Friday, Plus Gallery is certainly going to be the place to be with an event that we've been greatly anticipating all year long, an artist talk so special we decided to give it a name:

"Bill Amundson's Blurred Vision: An enhanced gallery talk with props, interruptions & souvenirs" will take place this friday evening at 7pm. One might pay good money for such an experience, there is no more dynamic, entertaining speaker on art and life than Bill. But we like to give, so this event is free and even includes a cider-tasting by the Colorado Cider Company http://www.coloradocider.com that evening, feel free to come by early to participate. Bill is also going to be giving away a few items during his talk to select, randomly drawn folks.

A full set of images from Bill's exhibition are now online at the Plus Website, and there are all kinds of references to the show online through other sources as well.

http://www.plusgallery.com/exhibitions/57/125/

http://www.voiceplaces.com/blurred-vision-denver-boulder-2023301-e/

http://www.denverbytheslice.com/

http://www.modernindenver.com/2011/10/bill-amundson-qa-on-new-drawings-in-blurred-vision/

http://untitledartshow.com/

BILL AMUNDSON'S BLURRED VISION: FROM THE PRESS RELEASE

2011-11-12T14:21:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights of the Plus Gallery 2011 calendar is the solo exhibition "Blurred Vision" featuring all new drawings by Bill Amundson, one of our nation's great satirists and the state of Colorado's most genuine artistic treasure. In what can truly be considered the darkest of political times in our country's recent history, Bill Amundson pulls no punches in his depiction of society gone mad. Utilizing pencil on paper as a pure coping mechanism, along with copious doses of humor, Amundson depicts how the world looks to your average "middle-aged white dude." "Blurred Vision" demonstrates an artist working at the peak of his talent amidst a wellspring of the very absurdity that nourishes him.

Amundson has been honing a singular, remarkable career for over 30 years, a feat that is unusual considering that it's been largely outside the commercial contemporary gallery realm. "Blurred Vision" is Amundson's inaugural solo exhibition with Plus Gallery and also the first major viewing of new works by the artist since he begrudgingly left Denver in the fall of 2010 for his home state of Wisconsin. Amundson left the state seemingly at the height of his career, a year in which he had major works on view in prestigious venues like the Denver Art Museum as well as the Kohler Art Center in Wisconsin. That same year two of Amundson's recent, hard-hitting drawings were acquired by the Denver Art Museum and the CU Bolder Art Museum respectively, making him one of the only Colorado artists of active interest to those institutions. Hardly one to bask in the limelight, Bill Amundson is a pure talent compelled to draw, following a most unlikely selection of muse' that few, if any living artists would dare hold close.

Bill Amundson's debut with Plus Gallery in the 2009 group exhibition "Brave New World" marked the arrival of two distinct new directions in the artist's work. "Amundson's New Tower of Babel" was a virtuoso masterpiece, a densely packed visual update of the biblical myth for our contemporary times, chock full of universal as well as local strata and many references to the arts and culture. In it layers upon layers in perfect perspective unfold as the eyes sweep across a mountain of cultural detritus, the technical dexterity alone worth the highest of praise. Amundson further progressed the tower direction in "Teen Excavation," a work that depicts a Frankenstein figure built upon the wasteland of today's youth in equally riveting fashion, later acquired by the Denver Art Museum for their permanent collection.

The second direction that Amundson began to expand on was "Hard Times," a series that uniquely captures the economic meltdown of this century and its effects upon the common man, more specifically the landscape in which much of our population operates. This gradually morphed into another brazen, timely, and socially relevant offshoot, Amundson's "American Dickheads" series which scrutinizes an odd assortment of public figures that led to the downward spiral that so shockingly took our country by surprise. Lehman Brothers leader Richard Fuld, Goldman Sachs' CEO Lloyd Blankfein and Denver's very own Joe Nacchio are given the Amundson portrait treatment, ranging from the strangely subtle to the perfectly outrageous.

Amundson continues to plumb the rich, seemingly endless veins of the collective psyche with the new works in "Blurred Vision." Political sensation Sarah Palin gets the full-babel treatment in "Tower of Sarah," an oil-seeking abomination complete with woodworker's drills aimed towards the ocean, lipstick exhaust pipes and the catch phrase "You Betcha" amplifying the proceedings. Amundson cross pollinates current Republican House Majority Leader Eric Cantor with the stylistic flair of sculptor Alberto Giacometti in the more modest "Eric Cantormetti," a work the artist personally claims to be "so gross I have trouble looking at it."

Though Amundson is unabashed in his treatment of others, his career-staple self portraits of the last decade aren't exactly flattering, and are often his most searing statements. In "Tech Savvy and Solar," Amundson dons a befuddled expression resulting from the space-age head-gear he's wearing that's only remotely removed from today's reality. "Got To Get It Out of My Head" finds the artist grappling with age/doubt/madness or any combination of issues, the Amundson visage grafting one on top of the other in its own towering effect. Further showing his age, "1975" depicts another dense, surreal landscape that could be the artist shamelessly wondering what his current talent and treatise might have looked like if applied at the very start of his career, in full color no less. You've come a long way Bill, indeed!

Bill Amundson was born in 1953 in Stoughton, Wisconsin. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison from 1971-1975, at which time he was awarded a B.S. degree in Art. Amundson has exhibited extensively throughout Colorado and the United States, including solo shows in New York City, Philadelphia, Toronto, Los Angeles, Austin, San Antonio, Phoenix, Colorado Springs and Denver in the past five years. His work is in the permanent collection of the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, the CU Art Museum and the Denver Art Museum, where he has been included in six exhibitions since 1996, most recently the prestigious 2010 show "Face to Face" alongside some of the world's most significant contemporary artists.

See Bill Amundson on Youtube:

Bill Amundson discusses his masterpiece "New Babel"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYT0xxDqERg

Bill Amundson receives DAMC Afkey Award 2010 Pt.1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40S5KDZJdCQ

Bill Amundson receives DAMC Afkey Award 2010 Pt.2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEPsizPZCiA

Bill Amundson Farewell at Plus Gallery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KH_-IUV0w_w

ANOTHER REASON TO VISIT PLUS GALLERY THIS SATURDAY: DENVER PUBLIC ART INVITES YOU TO WITNESS "PLAYING APART"

2011-11-12T14:20:00.000-08:00

LIVE PERFORMAMCE ART PROJECT WITH A 90-PIECE MARCHING BAND DOWNTOWN AND BALLPARK NEIGHBORHOOD

On Saturday, Oct. 29 from 1:30 - 4:30 pm, downtown Denver will be turned into a one-of-a-kind musical event that will transform LODO and the Ball Park district into a playing field for a performance-art happening.

Typically a marching band marches together. But to create "Playing Apart," performance-based artists Jon Rubin and Lee Walton will dismantle and spread an entire 90-piece marching band from Bear Creek High School in different locations throughout downtown Denver. The performers will begin playing their instrument on isolated corners of the downtown Denver area, then taking specific walking routes, collectively covering one-square mile of the city. Mimicking the experience of city life, band members will intersect randomly in an unpredictable mash-up of instruments and sounds. This event will occur twice, in two different quadrants of downtown from 1:30-2:00 p.m. and 4:00-4:30 p.m.

Viewers throughout the city--sitting in cafes, walking the sidewalks and working in the buildings--will see one band member after another passing by, like solitary pieces of a larger puzzle. The performance is both subtle and obvious, small and large. Disrupting and re-imagining the normal flow of the city, this project invites viewers to contemplate social and auditory patterns within the chaos of the city.

About the Artists

Jon Rubin is a multi-disciplinary artist whose work explores the social dynamics of public places and the idiosyncrasies of individual and group behavior. His projects include starting a radio station that only plays the sound of an extinct bird and training a hypnotized human robot army. Rubin's project "Thinking About Flying," is currently at the MCA Denver.

Lee Walton is an artist who playfully questions the world we live in. His work takes many forms and often involves collaboration with numerous participants from artists and non-artists alike. Walton once played an entire round of golf by taking only one shot a day, competed in a season-long free throw competition with Shaquille O'Neal and started a competitive residency program inside an international supermarket.

To experience this public performance, simply be downtown on October 29, 2001 between 1:30-4:30 p.m. Keep your eyes and ears open. More information and detailed locations can be found at http://www.playing-apart.com/index.html

XI ZHANG LOGAN LECTURE TONIGHT @ 7PM AT THE DAM!

2011-11-12T14:17:00.001-08:00

Rain, snow or sunshine, Xi Zhang will deliver his Logan Lecture tonight, October 26th at the Denver Art Museum starting at 7pm. We look forward to seeing you there. The release of Zhang's Plus Gallery book "Dream Dust" will be postponed to a further date, we'll have select copies on hand for viewing but there was a major flaw in our initial order by the printer and we won't have the final copies to us till after the lecture. You can still see the completed package that night and still place an advance order for the discounted rate of $80 at the Logan Lecture. This will be the last opportunity to get the discounted price.

Xi Zhang takes a shower

CATCH BILL AMUNDSON ON UNTITLED ART SHOW TONIGHT, OCTOBER 26th!

2011-11-12T14:16:00.001-08:00

In advance of his exhibition "Blurred Vision" Bill Amundson has been asked to return to the UntitledArtShow.com for a live interview next wednesday evening, October 26th. Bill will go live on the air at 8pm that night, you can tune in for the live broadcast or listen at your leisure anytime thereafter by visiting http://untitledartshow.com

The Return of Bill Amundson!

2011-11-12T14:15:00.000-08:00

Join Plus Gallery this Friday evening, October 28th for one of the most anticipated exhibitions of the year: Bill Amundson's "Blurred Vision." The reception will be held from 6-9pm, we'll have a keg of Great Divide "Hades" on hand to welcome Bill back to Denver and help everyone contend with Bill's new works. Amundson is known for his highly detailed pencil drawings that take on all manner of subjects from our daily and not-so daily lives: in the case of this exhibition that constitutes figures such as Sarah Palin, Eric Cantor, and Chase's own Jamie Diamond (the 4th in Bill's American Dickheads series), topics such as cell-phones and monster-truck rallies, a succinct tour of Wisconsin, all manner of discount stores, the year 1975 and plenty more. It's an amazing array that one can get lost in and enjoy for hours.

Susan Froyd gives Bill big props for the opening and his artist talk in this week's westword, her opening paragraph shows deep respect and knowledge of this legendary figure:

http://www.voiceplaces.com/blurred-vision-denver-boulder-2023301-e/

David Huntress also provides an early report in his downtown "By the Slice"

http://www.denverbytheslice.com/

And if you want more insite, you can visit the website or read the press release at the end of our enews. Not all of Bill's images are online yet, but there's enough to tantalize for sure!

Bill is back! Blurred Vision takes shape on the Plus Gallery walls

STARZ DENVER FILM FESTIVAL ADVANCED RECOMMENDATIONS

2011-10-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

The 34th edition of the Starz Denver Film Festival is set to commence on Wednesday, November 2nd with an opening night celebration at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House. The entire schedule for SDFF34 is now online at http://denverfilm.org and will be available as an insert in the Westword weekly as well. We've had the opportunity to take an advance look at the schedule and will be reporting on select films here as part of our annual coverage of the festival. But since general ticket sales start today, we have to recommend the following for those who want a superior experience with an art-minded focus:

What do Sonic Youth, The Minutemen and Van Halen have in common? They all released albums with cover-art by bonafide visual artists in the 1990's perhaps leading a trend that remains trendy amongst some bands today. While Raymond Pettibone and certainly Gerhard Richter are well known worldwide, the lesser known painter William Kurelek was the surprise choice used by the worlds most pioneering heavy metal fronted by two brothers for their album "Fair Warning." The hour-long documentary "William Kurelek's The Maze" chooses to focus on other matters, however, and is a must-see for anyone interested in the greater understanding of inherent talent and the struggle for artistic expression. William Kurelek was a Canadian painter but his story is best derived from the emigration status of his family, full blooded Ukranians who came to North America as many did in order to find a better life. But life couldn't possibly have been harder for William, who like so many artists found little support from a family that didn't respect or consider art to be a true calling in life. The film is an extension of a previous shorter version by the director Robert Young with help from Kurelek's sons and others, and I suspect a very welcome one for anyone familiar with the original. The result is riveting from start to finish, and handled in a very judicious way giving deep insight not only into the artistic brain but also matters such as shock-therapy and Christianity. It's hard not to walk away with mixed feelings about all topics covered, and though this documentary leaves many questions lingering, such as the development of Kurelek's own family life, it's greater assertion that artists and people can find a way even under the harshest circumstances is served up quite well, accompanied of course by some very searing visual delights. And for those who want to know more about the VH cover, you can read about that at

http://www.vhnd.com/2011/05/02/the-story-behind-van-halens-fair-warning-album-cover-art/

William Kurelek - detail from "The Maze"

The other "must-see" as it relates to the visual arts is the documentary "Beyond Iconic," a chronicle of the photographs, life and lessons of Dennis Stock, an artist who captured some of the greatest celebrity images of our times. Of course he did much more than that, the film digging across the many angles in which one might understand a singular, thoughtful career. There is a lot to be learned here, anyone with even a remote interest in the topic of photography would be well-served by taking this in during the festival. Stock discusses his early mentoring and breakthroughs in the field, much of which related directly to timing, personality and networking, continuing through his later periods of substantially vast investigations. The film takes on the subject by interweaving images of Stock's work not only with interviews and footage of the artist, but as well with a photography class that Stock taught perhaps as a continuing education course towards the end of his life (Stock died in 2010). It's a great way to frame the subject, particularly with Stock's honest approach to matters of teaching the topic, something that everyone can learn from. Though Stock was a naysayer of most contemporary and conceptual photography, his earnestness is clear and his life relevatory enough to justify the tribute.

Can you name this famous Dennis Stock subject?

This years schedule is somewhat light on visual art-related themes, though one might get a heavy dose on the psychology of the struggling artist through South Korean films such as "Arirang" (which was highly recommended by one of the programming staff at last nights schedule release party) and "The Day He Arrives." Both films comments on the artistic struggles inherent in the film profession, the latter a tricky meditation on the underpinnings of directorial stardom which could have been titled "The Triple Lives of Director Yoo." Both are part of this year's focus on South Korean Cinema, one of the true delights of the festival every year as it ventures into largely uncharted territory from around the world.

Some of the most talked about auteur films on the international circuit will be rearing their heads this year, including David Cronenberg's latest "A Dangerous Method" and Lars von Trier's "Melancholia." Two of our most anticipated films that constitute the serious art-house urge have to be Steve McQueen's "Shame" and Bela Tarr's "The Turin Horse," both of which most likely won't reappear on the big-screen here in Denver. We'll have more reviews and reports coming again soon, so stay tuned and support the Starz Denver Film Festival!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR BILL AMUNDSON ARTIST TALK FRIDAY NOVEMBER 4TH @ 7PM

2011-10-22T11:48:00.001-07:00

With just two short weeks back in Denver, Bill Amundson will be packing a lot in for our local audience, including his artist talk set for Friday, November 4th here at Plus Gallery starting at 7pm. "Bill Amundson's Blurred Vision: An enhanced gallery talk with props, interruptions & souvenirs" is sure to delight all who attend, we guarantee a singular and memorable experience that will serve as the perfect way to kick off Denver Arts Week.

XI ZHANG LOGAN LECTURE AND BOOK SIGNING WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 26TH @ 7PM

2011-10-22T11:47:00.001-07:00

A truly historic occurrence in the Denver art scene will take place next Wednesday, October 26th at the Denver Art Museum. Plus Gallery artists Xi Zhang will give a lecture about his work and career as part of the Logan Lecture series that night starting at 7pm. Tickets are available in advance and can be reserved by contacting 720-913-0152

For more information visit http://DAMContemporaries.denverartmuseum.org

Zhang will also be signing copies of his new book "Dream Dust" that night, a 200 page monograph that captures the esteemed artists early works in a gorgeous package. Advance copies are available for $80 up till the night of the Logan Lecture, contact ivar@plusgallery.com to reserve yours today. To see a preview of the book visit

http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/2543518?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=bookstore-share

Xi with his latest painting "Street Walls"

CATCH BILL AMUNDSON ON UNTITLED ART SHOW WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 26TH

2011-10-22T11:46:00.001-07:00

OPENING NEXT FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28TH: BILL AMUNDSON'S BLURRED VISION

2011-10-22T11:45:00.001-07:00

Bill Amundson returns to Denver for two weeks, after moving back to his home state of Wisconsin. The move has given Bill a lot to ponder and a lot of time to put his pencils to paper, creating a dynamic new body of work that will constitute his first solo exhibition with Plus Gallery. Could an exhibition possibly be more highly anticipated? We think now, please come join us in greeting Bill and being he first to see his "Blurred Vision" at the opening festivities next Friday evening, October 28th from 6-9pm.

XI ZHANG TO PRESENT AT PANEL DISCUSSION AT BMOCA TONIGHT, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19th

2011-10-22T11:44:00.000-07:00

BMOCA in Boulder will present a discussion that examines visual perception as it applies to art such as painting, and sculpture and how knowledge of visual neurobiology can enhance our ability to create and appreciate art. Plus Gallery artist Xi Zhang will be one of the featured panelists that evening, for more information visit:

http://www.bmoca.org/2011/10/the-science-of-visual-perception-and-art/

FINAL WEEK FOR ROBIN SCHAEFER EXHIBITION "UNLEARNING THE DIFFERENCES" AT PLUS GALLERY

2011-10-22T11:43:00.000-07:00

This is the final week to view the exhibition "Unlearning the Differences" featuring new paintings by Robin Schaefer. The exhibition features 7 new canvases of varying size, with Robin's distinct black backgrounds engulfing still-life compositions that are quietly restrained yet physchologically impactful. Schaefer's bold color palette and use of inorganic material distinguishes the works from her previous explorations in the genre. They are rich and rewarding efforts by one of Denver's best young painters.

Allie Pohl To Be Featured In "The Feminine Canvas" At California's Beacon Arts Building

2011-10-01T13:23:00.002-07:00

This timely show is both a reaction and a complement to other PST historical feminist shows around town, as it deals with the NOW of feminism, with a focus on gender politics and body issues. Beacon Arts pays homage to feminist movements of the past, including classic work by the iconic feminist artist Alexis Smith; asks the question, "what does it mean to be a woman?" with beautiful Trans-identified woman and performance artist Zachary Drucker, and gives some diverse points of view from some important contemporary feminist artists; Bijoux Altamarino, Meg Cranston, Sara Hunsucker, Amy Kaps, Laura Krifka, Laura London, Yolanda McKay, Allie Pohl and Fay Ray.

The exhibition opens this Friday, September 30th

Beacon Arts Building

808 N. La Brea Avenue

Inglewood, California 90302

Kagen Schaefer Event Truly Inspired

2011-10-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, September 24th, Plus Gallery hosted one of the most unique and inspiring events of the year. Kagen Schaefer spent the last four + years working on a commission piece for a very unusual client, one who is known worldwide as an adventurous film director and who commissioned the artist on the premise that "money was no object" and that he wanted the artist to be inspired. What sounds like a dream commission resulted in four years of extreme effort to create a fantastic work that we are certain will one day be in a major museum collection. Kagen, who is a master woodworker and renowned across the world for his intricate puzzle-boxes, created a complex and beautiful desk that carries many secrets and interior chambers that have the ability to astound the user, at least if they can figure out how to unlock them. The evening was exclusive to Schaefer's friends and Plus Gallery clients; for those who were unable to attend we recommend viewing some of the video taken by gallery assistant Ryan Pattie that evening:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5tenq55VPA

The presentation was also captured in an overhead view and can be seen by visiting the Plus Gallery facebook page, follow the link from our website at http://www.plusgallery.com

What made the evening especially memorable was the combination of Kagen's singular work surrounded by his sister Robin's magnificent paintings, two of Denver's major talents proving the caliber of artwork that is being created here.

Discount Offered For Pre-Orders of Xi Hang's New Plus Gallery Book "Dream Dust"

2011-10-01T13:22:00.001-07:00

Plus Gallery is currently putting the finishing touches on our second major in-house publication, the 200 page book "Dream Dust" that features the work of artist Xi Zhang. The book will be available in time for Zhang's Logan Lecture at the Denver Art Museum, which is set for October 26th, and follows on the heels of our successful and highly collectible tome on Jenny Morgan "New Frontier." Those wishing to place an advance order for Xi's book can contact the gallery now. The list price will be $100, with advance buyers given a $20 discount through the next two weeks.

Xi Zhang with "Dream Dust"

Plus Gallery collector books

Bill Amundson's First Limited Edition Print Created For Modern In Denver

2011-10-01T13:21:00.002-07:00

Those who pick up the new issue of MID or view their site online will come across a new, limited edition print "Four Art Franchises (Moderno)" that was specifically created for Modern In Denver by Bill Amundson. The print is the first full-color editioned work by the artist in his 30-year career history and is affordably priced at $250. Advance orders, which can be placed by contacting us here at Plus or by linking from our website, will get a $50 discount if placed prior to the exhibition opening on October 28th. The edition, which features the architecture of Plus Gallery in one of the four panels, is limited to 58, which is Bill's current age, and will undoubtedly be a collector's item.

http://plusgallery.com/amundsonOrder.php

Speaking of Collector's items, we just received the invitation cards for Amundson's upcoming exhibition "Blurred Vision," they will be distributed around town on a limited basis. Those who wish to make sure they acquire one can come visit the gallery between now and the start of the show. The card features Bill's latest mind-bending rendition of a figure in tower format, the illustrious and uncompromising Sarah Palin, on the front.....as well as Bill staring at the gallery QR code on the back.

Bill Amundson Exposed In New Issue of Modern In Denver

2011-10-01T13:21:00.000-07:00

The fall issue of Modern in Denver hit the stands last week, and one of the big reasons to grab a copy now, outside of their consistently refreshing articles and view of modernist design, is the major article on Plus Gallery artist Bill Amundson. The article is a precursor to Bill's upcoming solo exhibition "Blurred Vision" that will commence on October 28th, one of the most anticipated shows in the gallery history. Grab a copy on the newsstands while you can, or view the article on Bill online at:

http://www.modernindenver.com/2011/09/bill-amundson-2/

Schaefer To Give Artist Talk At Plus Gallery Friday, October 7th at 7 P.M.

2011-10-01T13:20:00.001-07:00

Plus Gallery artists Robin Schaefer will discuss her new paintings in the current exhibition "Unlearning the Differences" on First Friday, October 7th at 7pm. There is a remarkable depth behind the compositions and subjects that Robin puts forth in her new works, and the exhibition serves as an extension of the body of work she began around 2005 and has honed to date. Please join us for this informal discussion, the event is free and open to the public.

Robin Schaefer - The Kid Next Door

Mike Whiting Unveils Special New Collaborative Sculptures in California

2011-10-01T13:19:00.002-07:00

Plus Gallery artist Mike Whiting culminated his current teaching residency with the Long Beach Arts Council in California with a collaborative project that incorporated youth from the local Dooley Elementary School. His pixelated sea creatures are constructed out of solid concrete and covered in tiles painted with seascapes by the children from the school. We congratulate Mike on his latest works and another excellent addition to the public landscape in the US.

Major Article on Kagen Schaefer in 5280

2011-10-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

Last week we mentioned the special event we have planned for Saturday, September 24th with Robin Schaefer's talented brother Kagen, the one-time only viewing and interaction with a unique masterpiece the artist has been working on for over four years. 5280 has published a major article on Kagen and his work, we encourage reading about it online or in print, and highly recommend attending our event on the 24th. This event will not be open to or advertised to the general public, please RSVP to ivar@plusgallery.com if you would like to attend.

http://www.5280.com/magazine/2011/07/boxed

Coming in October: The Return of Bill Amundson!

2011-10-01T13:15:00.001-07:00

Save the dates of October 28th and November 4th, they should prove to be two of the most exciting and stimulating evenings in the gallery history. Bill Amundson returns from Wisconsin with a new body of work for his first solo show ever, yes ever, in Denver. Amundson is one of the most renowned contemporary artists in the state and an artistic force that's been making steady progress on a national level over the last decade. Even though our country is currently experiencing the most dire political times, most American artists seem to be shying away from strong political commentary in any compelling way. Except for Bill that is. Amundson can be brash as hell, but as much fun that he pokes at some of our countries rudest or most ruthless national figures, he aims the same cannon quite often at himself. The opening reception on the 28th will prove to be a grand and rowdy time, but we have to strongly recommend planning your schedule to include his artist talk here at Plus on Friday, November 4th, it will be an experience unlike any you have had or could possibly imagine.

Bill Amundson: Detail from "Tower of Sara"

Last Chance for Brendan Tang Acquisition From Plus/DAM Show

2011-10-01T13:14:00.003-07:00

The Denver Art Museum will conclude it's department wide focus on Clay later this month, an exhibition that has brought even greater stature to the depth of the museum's collections and curatorial talent. Plus Gallery represented artist Tsehai Johnson has created a wonderful installation that is one of the highlight's of the contemporary show "Overthrown: Clay without Limits," and we've also had the pleasure of working with newly minted international sensation Brendan Tang who contributes two of his scintillating mash-up vessels as well. Tang's work will be moving on from Denver after the exhibition is over, his work is in exceptional demand across the world ever since his breakthrough year of 2010. We strongly urge any serious collectors to consider the remaining work Manga Ormolu 5.0-a

New Works Available at Plus Gallery For Start of Fall Season!

2011-10-01T13:14:00.001-07:00

Plus Gallery will be adding some new works by artists from our stable to the upstairs viewing space to commence the fall season, including a terrific new panel from Kate Petley, a brand new (and painted in Denver) self portrait from Jenny Morgan, and also a new painting by Morgan protege Austin Parkhill, and artist whose skill is advancing at an extreme pace.

Kate Petley: Out Loud

Jenny Morgan: How strange it is to be anything at all

Austin Parkhill: Hanna

Special Event September 24th: By Private Invitation Only: Kagen Schaefer Unveils Extraordinary Work of Craft, Ingenuity, and Art

2011-10-01T13:13:00.001-07:00

Plus Gallery will host one of the most rare and special evenings of the decade on Friday, September 24th, we urge you to mark your calendars now. Talent, it seems, for our featured artist Robin Schaefer, runs in the family. While Robin's career has proven strong in the local market and occasionally beyond, her brother Kagen has operated on an entirely different level. Kagen creates extraordinarily crafted, ingenious woodworks that engage intellectually as well as aesthetically. Kagen is world renowned in the circle of puzzle-art, a status that led to one of the most auspicious and bold contemporary film directors of our times to commission him over four years ago to create a unique desk that incorporates an expansive set of well-hidden surprises. Kagen recently completed the desk and had decided to host an intimate gathering for the Denver public to view and engage with the piece. We asked him if we could host that event so that his creation can be viewed within the context of his sisters exhibition. He agree, so we will be bringing the desk into the gallery for a one-night only viewing and celebration. The desk is not simple in any way, it also is a fully functioning musical instrument and Kagen will be demonstrating it's unique compositions that evening at select times.

Please join us on September 24th from 6pm to 9pm. Demonstrations will occur that evening at 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30pm. This is really an event not to be missed!

A little about Kagen Schaefer's work from the artist:

Building the box for others to think outside of.

I have been a full time artist for ten years. I design and produce all my work here in Denver. All of my work is a puzzle in some form, more specifically a puzzle box. A puzzle box is anything that requires a person to solve a puzzle in order to open the box. This can be anything from shifting the sides of the box in a sequence of moves, to finding a secret button, movement, or trick move.

I made my first puzzle table in 2006, as a commission for the Lilly Library at Indiana University which is now a permanent part of the collection. A puzzle table is like its counterpart box in that you must solve various puzzles to unlock the drawers of the table. Shortly after my first puzzle table made it's debut I was contacted by a film director to build a puzzle desk. His only requirement for this desk commission was that I be inspired.

4 1/2 years later...

The Pipe Organ Desk is a very special desk. The only one of it's kind. Should you push in a drawer it naturally displaces air, which is redirected through the desk to a functioning organ pipe. Eight drawers sound and octave of organ pipes in D major. Not only does the desk sound notes, it remembers the notes you play. Inside is a logic board, also powered by the air movement. This records your notes, and should anyone play the correct tune it will automatically reveal a secret drawer. The entire desk is made from solid wood, even the fastening screws and hardware was designed and constructed from wood in my studio. Words are hardly enough to express the feat of magic of this desk is, so I will be doing a demonstration on the opening night. I welcome all to see it in action! - Kagen Schaefer, 2011

Xi Zhang Featured on CNN "Ripple" Project for 9/11 10-year Anniversary

2011-10-01T13:12:00.001-07:00

As everyone is well aware, the ten year anniversary of the tragic events that now make the date 9/11 seared into our collective memories is almost upon us. CNN has developed a special artistic reflection called the "Ripple Project" that brings together select artists from all corners of the nation to interpret this historic life-changing time. Plus Gallery artist Xi Zhang was selected for inclusion in the program, which we believe will be aired live on CNN this coming sunday but can currently be viewed online at the CNN website:

http://www.cnn.com/interactive/2011/09/specials/911.ripple/index.html?&hpt=hp_c2

Another tremendous honor for Zhang, his statement relating to the painting "The Root" is as follows:

After 9/11, we began to live in insecurity and fear. This radical change reshaped relationships between nations and people. Living in the post-9/11 era, I feel everything terrible could happen at any moment. Furthermore, breaking news from the major media and Internet solidifies the fears among us. The war in Iraq is another significant event that involves all of us. In my opinion, using war to solve the issue of "insecurity" is not a good idea; it is like using fire to destroy fire or terror to destroy terror. What makes us different from the terrorists on a humane level? No matter if it happens in Iraq or here in the United States, great numbers of people passed away. The title of the painting refers to an old Chinese tale, "Grown from the same trees, Why boil us so hot?" I created an abstract painting as the main body for the piece. It symbolizes qualities of "organic" and "realness." I used simple lines to draw many "fear expression" faces on top of it. By using this gesture, I intend to guide viewers to discover more "fear expression" faces on their own The video game elements symbolize qualities of "artificial" and "fakeness." Whoever is still in charge of our wars, I feel they are only considering the lost lives and financial woes as numbers. If these people in charge were to fight these wars in person, the wars might already be ended. - Xi Zhang, 2011