DONALD BAECHLER: NEW WORK
March 12 - April 12, 2004
Opening Reception Friday, 12 March, 6-8 pm
The Baldwin Gallery is pleased to present a new series of collages and gouache drawings by Donald Baechler. Known for his complex and richly layered compositions, the artist draws visual inspiration from many different sources. His unique collage techniques allow for the integration of multiple elements into cohesive works of art.
Language, communication and perception, issues of authenticity and transformation of identity are examined through Baechler's art. He collects thousands of images, including photographs referencing his frequent journeys throughout Europe, Southeast Asia, and elsewhere, some of which later appear in his paintings. The artist creates unusual juxtapositions of complex ideas and divergent visual elements.
Baechler continually explores the formal art concerns involved in abstract painting, with a particular emphasis on line quality, form and balance. At the same time, he engages with the rich possibilities of pictorial representation, exploring symbolic meaning, childhood memories, etc. Usually, a central iconic image interacts with assorted collaged and painted background elements to create enigmatic narratives. Subjects have included flowers, people, animals, machinery, architecture and cartoon imagery. The process of creating a composition is very important to him, and he often re-works the textured surface many times before a collage or painting is finished.
Donald Baechler was born in Hartford, Connecticut and studied at the Maryland Institute, College of Art in Baltimore, at Cooper Union, New York, and Staatliche Hochschule fur Bildende Kunste Staedelschule in Frankfurt. For over twenty years, Baechler has exhibited his work throughout Europe, the United States and Asia.
The public is invited to meet the artist at the opening reception on Friday, March 12th from 6-8 pm.
Since 1994, the Baldwin Gallery has been presenting new work by established and emerging artists. It has earned an international reputation as an important venue for contemporary art, with a particular focus on American artists.
Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from Noon to 5 pm. The Baldwin Gallery is located at 209 South Galena Street in Aspen, Colorado.
Images are available upon request. Please call 970.920.9797 for further information.
