“If Willem DeKooning met Homer Simpson on acid while watching CNN, you’d get a basic description of my work.” This is a fascinating and apt self description of up-and-coming Houston artist Howard Sherman's work. Don’t be confused by the artist’s description ... see it for yourself Saturday at the PanAmerican ArtProjects exhibition Bloodthirsty Animal on Two Legs.Sherman’s mother said he drew before he spoke. More than 30 years later, his evocative pieces speak for themselves. His latest exhibition displays his bold work – full of dark brushstrokes and bright colors. Some of his work is reminiscent of Gustav Klimt; others have cubism influences.
His works are vivid and reactionary. Each piece seems to pop off the canvas. Many have messages or words written on them. With names ranging from Perverts posing as deviants to Instructions for a genuine meritocracy, this exhibit is anything but ordinary. At first glance, some of his works may look like they were created in one sitting. But this is not the case. Each piece takes from one to three months to be completed. If you look closely, you can see the layers on each piece – evidence of his ideas forming and transforming to completion. Sherman said that his work is like putting his diary on the wall.
Due to the sexual imagery in some of his work, looking at Sherman’s canvases can sometimes feel a bit voyeuristic. Although the artist might feel exposed with his work on display, this show is definitely worth taking a peep.Where: PanAmerican ArtsProject, 1615 Dragon St.
When: Opening September 12 5 p.m.
Watch for an exclusive interview with Sherman at www.skytramexpress.com.
Posted 9/11/09
