"Transformative" opening at Kehler Liddell on Sunday afternoon

Kehler Liddell Gallery
873 Whalley Ave., New Haven, (203) 389-9555
Keith Johnson & Joseph Saccio: Transformative
Through Mar. 1, 2009
Opening Reception: Sun., Feb. 1, 3—6 p.m.

Press release

Keith Johnson is showing new photographic work that continues his exploration of repeated or extended imagery. Much as a poet explores the topography of word and repeating text, or a filmmaker splices film into montage, Johnson moves beyond a single photographic image to a reconsidered or transformed topology in multiple images.

"Sometimes extended viewing of a photographic idea would reveal not only the idea, but additionally, time, light, color, and comparison changes during the extended time." By printing multiple images on a single piece of paper, working with grids, and linear presentation, Johnson offers the viewer a "bunch of picture ideas," beautiful, sharp, somewhat abstract pictures in both black & white and brilliant color. He creates an opportunity to be involved with his process, to follow and share his compelled exploration of typology, topology and the photographic ability to record.

Joseph Saccio's works range in size from large installations inside and out, to small pedestal pieces. His material is often natural, organic, frequently wood or found objects joined in what he calls a "primitivistic manner that expresses personal feelings associated with myth and ritual, loss and rebirth." He also offers sculpture constructed from synthetic materials with an apparent ironic humor that both contrasts and informs more solemn work. This show presents two memorial sculptures that have been out doors for 20+ years, and returned to the studio for restoration and decisive rework. They are shown as newly altered work with original and renovation dates, and accompanied by completely new sculpture that continues to explore the mysteries of transformation.

Keith Johnson's and Joe Saccio's art works have a notable relationship. There is a visible concern with natural materials, surfaces, and the compelling study and placement of objects in space. Both artists' work with ideas, producing striking visual images and objects which seem abstract or metaphoric, and then lead us into the transformative process.

Opening Reception: Feb. 1, Sun., 3—6 p.m.: Public is invited to join the artists and community in celebration. No admission fee for gallery or reception.

There will be two artist talks in conjunction with this show. On Sun., Feb. 8, at 2 p.m., Joe Saccio will discuss his sculpture. And, rescheduled from Jan. 28, Keith Johnson will present a large Screen PowerPoint presentation "10 Years in Search of Nirvana with St. Lucy" on Wed., Feb. 11 at 7 p.m.