Jackson Junge Gallery

“Perceptions Of The Parallaxis” unites the distinctive styles of artwork from three local artists, Jason Hawk (sculpture), Keelan McMorrow (painting), and Jason Brammer (painted assemblages).  These Chicago based artists’ work is characterized by their unique methods of tampering with reality to communicate perceptions of their worlds.  The artists adopt the conceptual idea of parallax (wherein an object appears differently depending on the direction or position from which it is viewed) by incorporating their different perspectives into one exhibit.  From their individual vantage points, they each present a body of work that finds unity in their dedication to technique, craft and innovation. 

Brammer, Hawk and McMorrow were initially drawn together through their mutual respect for each other’s artwork.  They began to find inspiration in one another’s innovation and work ethic prompting each to continually re-invent their ideas and craft. 

Jason Brammer is a visual artist, painter, and muralist. He is known for his mixed media hand-painted assemblages, distinctive airbrushed paintings, meticulously-detailed drawings, and site-specific installations. In his mixed media work, Jason creates a unique melding of painted imagery with 3-dimensional elements, such as real antique parts, reclaimed wood, and other salvaged items he happens upon in the alleys by his studio. The objects are seamlessly integrated, creating an illusion that draws the viewer in for a closer look to see what is real and what is painted.

Sculptor Jason Hawk incorporates wit and layers of hidden meaning in his works.  One finds sculpture within sculpture, fabrication within a would-be natural landscape, and narrative vs. commentary in his clever constructions.  Hawk’s perspective is one that steps away from the overly conceptual.  A story is visually presented, whether it is interpreted as that of the artist or one that the viewer finds him/herself.

McMorrow finds his voice in painting.  His traditional painting techniques meld with contemporary notions of expressionism to create a style that borders on abstract, but centers on realism. This transports the viewer between classic and contemporary realms of art. There is something raw that translates into his imagery, almost as though one were seeing a visceral representation of a thought or dream.  Whereas some elements stand out as solid and recognizable, these dissolve into a cloudy abstraction that seems to emulate the ways our memories or thoughts are never wholly pristine. 

These three friends display their artwork together with a common objective that different perspectives can mould and change from their individual positions.  Their technique becomes the parallaxis of art.

The exhibit runs from November 2^nd, 2012 thru January 6^th, 2013.  An opening reception with the artists is scheduled for the evening of Friday, November 2^nd from 6-9pm.  Reception and exhibit are free to the public.