full press release (pdf)
Jason Clinton Barnes: Sample Works
“Dreadful Objects”, an exhibition sure to provoke discussion, features works on paper and video installation by Jason Clinton Barnes and Shane Richey, recent graduates from the Masters Program at the University of Arkansas Art Department. Barnes’ intense analytical eye for detail, coupled with Richey’s pithy sense of delivery join in providing a startlingly clever and endlessly entertaining summer showcase.
Both artists work in the medium of ideas, each pushing the boundaries of the artist/viewer relationship while confronting the notion of fact. Barnes’ large-scale drawings on paper (the largest at 8 feet by 8 feet) display his personal struggle with American history as presented in textbooks. The work, elaborate combinations of painting, pencil and marker, seamlessly combine American heroes with modern day pop culture icons in a graphic retelling of the quest for the American Dream. Richey uses mounted televisions, looped video feeds and sound to involve the viewer. His belief is communication, especially in modern journalism, is telling a story– influenced by agendas and advertising dollars. Richey’s installation invites a critical dialogue between artist and audience about the true nature of objective broadcasting.
‘Dreadful Objects’ was co-curated by Dede Peters, the gallery owner, and Robin Atkinson, best known for her work with Art Amiss, Inc. ‘Dreadful Objects’ promises to be the most entertaining, challenging and delightful art showcase of the season.
