Mark Kostabi: Provocateur & Healer features 42 paintings, all created in the 21st century, by the internationally recognized artist who was one of the key players in New York’s East Village Scene of the 1980s. As a young artist, Kostabi took his cues from Andy Warhol, whose “Factory” was a prototype for making art according to a business model. Early on, Kostabi developed a practice of employing a team of creative thinkers and skilled technicians to assist him in the production of his art. Interested in getting feedback from potential audiences about “what to paint,” Kostabi conducted market research by showing his sketches around, inviting comments and suggestions about his imagery and ideas. This led to building his own style or “brand,” which consists of faceless figures who engage in allegorical or metaphorical narratives.
In 1988 he expanded his enterprising approach by founding a production facility, known as “Kostabi World.” More recently, he developed a TV game show where participants title his paintings. In the current exhibition, Kostabi’s anonymous figures are placed in situations that invite viewers to reflect upon a wide range of topics, including art history, the art market, music, the environment, politics, technology, recreation, spirituality, and love. The works also explore human attributes such as isolation, desire, alienation, greed, and faith.
Executed mostly in bright and sometimes psychedelic colors, Kostabi’s paintings possess an aesthetic sensibility that reflects the high-tech domination of the 21st century.
EXHIBITION
May 1st – June 5th, 2022
Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.
Gallery hours:
Tuesday-Saturday- 10am-5pm
Sunday- 1pm-5pm