“Where You’ll Find Me”??, Karen Marston Solo Exhibition

“Where You’ll Find Me”??
In her solo exhibition, Karen Marston re-examines and interprets the childhood story “The Wizard of OZ”. This series of paintings was inspired by her travels through Vietnam and to the Cao Dai temple in the Mekong Delta built in the 1920’s by a Vietnamese visionary who blended Eastern and Western religious and occult philosophies.

Rich, luminescent layers of paint lore you in as the narrative slyly pricks your finger. The tin man is depicted with head in hands in the midst of a forest with his now still human heart on the ground. The lamenting metal man got his wish, but there was a catch… In The Shoes, Marston paints only the disturbingly tranquil shins of Dorothy lying toe up in the lush grass. They are delicate little shins, with precious gold toned shoes with bows. Did the house land on her in Marston’s twist of fate? When speaking to her about the work, her mother pointed out, “Do you see the shoes Karen is wearing”? Low and behold! They have come to life on Marston’s own feet! Like Dorothy herself! The Witches hat floats in a rich, eerie bog of black and cobalt blue, ripples of water surround it leaving you feeling strangely sorry for the old gal. Maybe she was just misunderstood.

Though there is a sense of dark humor at first glance, deeper questions lay within the works, embedded in metaphor, narrative and layers of paint. Her works draw on the history of folklore which entertain while simultaneously address more serious concerns of life. Karen Marston’s works are skillfully executed and beautifully—disturbing.
Pay no attention to the woman behind the curtain…..

Karen Marston, "Where You'll Find Me"??
Opening Reception Wednesday, June 20th, 6-9 PM. Through July 27.
Cheryl McGinnis Gallery
1287 Madison Avenue
New York, New York, 10128
?212-722-1144?
Summer Hours:?Monday thru Friday 10am - 6pm
http://www.cherylmcginnisgallery.com