Janice Mathews-Gordon's Artist Statement on her exhibition, "Divided"

My new abstract paintings reflect my concern about the deep divides in our country. Here, I share my own visual interpretations of this time of profound polarization, conflict, and unrest. A few of the paintings also focus on the not-too-distant past when we shared common values of civility and decency – a time when we used negotiation and compromise to fuel the engine of our democracy. 

With each piece, I start with a carefully composed small ink sketch and build a painting of scattered shapes and lines, creating a sense of conflict in some, and harmony in others. Many contain interplay between those opposing forces. Distinctive colors, often complementary, further evoke division or congruity. Contemplative greens and blues suggest growth and coming together, while intense reds and oranges highlight conflict and unrest. Charcoal lines thread throughout each piece, adding definition and creating points-of-interest.

More broadly, these paintings serve as a mirror reflecting a society of deep ideological divides characterized by turmoil and dysfunction. But here also is a reminder of our shared aspirations and the once collaborative and productive capability of our democracy.
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Join us for her artist talk to learn more.