Abstracting Nature

ART ON VIEW

Matt Larson: “Abstracting Nature”
at the White Meeting House in Waterbury
January 12-March 2, 2018

“Abstracting Nature” is a collection of abstract painted paper collage works by Waterbury Center artist Matt Larson, who is inspired by natural systems and ecological processes. “From the earliest of times, humans have tried to make sense of the natural world — a world we often experience as chaotic,” said Larson. “Our very existence essentially depended on it.”

Larson’s work uses boldly colorful papers that he created to combine in ways that create new, larger patterns. These patterns are then often overpainted in ways suggested by the layers below. “As I paint and organize the elements of the collage, I strive to balance randomness and accident with order and reason.” The show offers a meditation on how patterns in nature develop as well as how they may change over time–whether because of normal ebbs and flows in nature or because of changes catalyzed by human activity.

On February 12, 2018, 3-5PM, Larson presents the workshop, Preparing Painted Paper for Collage:

The workshop is an exploration of techniques used to apply water-based paints and inks to paper in preparation for collage, in conjunction with “Abstracted Nature”. In addition to experimenting with these materials, participants will investigate collage composition using a variety of papers prepared prior to the workshop. All materials provided (donations to help cover costs are welcome), but participants should feel free to bring papers, brushes, cutting tools, and water-based paints, inks, and markers they would like to incorporate into their work. Children are welcome with adult accompaniment. Space is limited; please register by February 7 (see contact info below). Please wear clothing suitable for occasionally messy processes.

(adapted from the artist’s press materials)


INFORMATION

White Meeting House
8 North Main Street
Waterbury 05676
(802) 244-6606

Hours:
Tuesday-Friday, 8:30AM-12:30PM
and by appointment (call (802) 244-6636)

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Image:
Five #1 (detail)
by Matt Larson
painted paper collage
Image courtesy of the artist