162.6 × 137.2 cm
LAUNCH Gallery is proud to present two solo shows by local mid-career artists who present painterly images inspired by whole-life experiences, imagined ideals and punk rock influences. In Crony on the Metro Christian Spruell brings a command of materials and fearless execution that portray imagery of youthful shenanigans, mid-life irreverence and more.
“A pile of prospects exploring the evasive distinctions between the abstract and figurative form.
“While the subject matter is of importance and holds a place of validity, it (the subject) becomes secondary to the marks that bring the subject to form thus giving priority to object. By no means does this imply that the subject bears no responsibility. When coming upon an image or choosing a topic, a vetting process takes place on various levels. Object eventually defers to subject as a final destination revealing individuals engaged in commonplace undertakings. I stay consistent with the philosophy that welcoming the vile and repugnant alongside the elegant magnetism of beauty and love may harness a reflection of the human condition.
“At the base of my work the common denominator is material.
Dried sheets of paint (paint skin) harvested from my studio floor and mixing barrels. Ink drawings on rice paper becoming adhered transparencies to pressed paper, and incised with graphite lead. Paint mixed with sand and/or dry pigment, applied with palette knives. Spray paint, ink spray, thrown paint, each combined with lines of deliberate definition.” ~ Christian Spruell
Christian Spruell (born 1970 S.A.TX) lives and works in Glendora,CA. Christian Spruell attended the San Francisco Art Institute and received a scholarship to the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, Maine. Writing on his work can be found in such publications as Art In America, The Avenue Magazine, San Francisco Chronicle, Review New York, Los Angeles Downtown News, Vast Art Magazine among others in the national press. Public Collections include Boston Corporate Art, Allan Stone New York and Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art.