My biomorphic imagery in this exhibition hinges on the comic with its gestural, voluminous – yet ambiguous forms. It is an inner world that is dreamlike – you know what it might be, but you’re not sure. The narratives are riddles with no clearly defined answer, allowing the interpretation of the viewer to be singular and as correct as the next.

I have included a variety of sizes of panels in this exhibition to not only show my range, but also because I like the rhythmical play created by the juxtaposition of works. Viewers may also notice a cohesive thread of color between all the paintings. This was achieved by working on several works at the same time – carrying over colors from one panel to the next.

-Denise Presnell

My current work contains two series: “Unrestrained Ambiguity” and “Extreme Makeovers – Painting Edition. Both series share some common threads, such as color palette, biomorphic forms, gestural lines, and a strong sense of motion. The subject matter is up for grabs – it’s all in the eye of the beholder. I’ve learned that what I see as a ‘horse’ is a ‘kitty’ to others. I am okay with the open interpretation. I like offering an open invitation for the viewer to explore the work from their imagination.

Using a limited palette ties one work to another. I’ve developed a deeper relationship with color as a powerful vehicle of emotion. I’ve taken cues from the masters of color- Rothko, Matisse, Bonnard, and many more. Equally powerful in my method is the use of automatic, gestural line. Compositions are found through the automatic lines without a preconceived image or plan. Working from this standpoint has been extremely freeing for me.

I enjoy working on panels that have many older paintings under them, leaving something from the older work in the newest iteration. It’s a family of paintings. I like using oil and cold wax on panel because of the ability to dig down through the painted surfaces. My love for tactile surfaces harkens back to my years of intaglio printmaking.

Denise is a painter originally from Nebraska, currently living in Sheboygan, WI. She earned a BFA in Printmaking from the University of Nebraska and an MFA in Painting from the Pennsylvania State University. Graduate school was followed by a career of teaching art on the college level. Denise’s artwork has been exhibited in over 300 exhibitions, which include solo, invitational, group, and juried exhibitions in the United States, Tokyo, Botswana, Kenya, and Shanghai. Her work is in numerous private collections in the United States and abroad.

GALLERY HOURS & VISITOR INFORMATION

This exhibition will be held in the Second Floor Gallery of the Evanston Art Center (EAC). Masks are optional but strongly recommended for students, visitors, and staff.

Gallery Hours

Monday–Thursday: 9am–6pm

Friday: 9am–5pm

Saturday–Sunday: 9am–4pm

HOW TO PURCHASE ARTWORK

Artwork sale proceeds benefit both the artist and the Evanston Art Center. If you are interested in purchasing artwork on display, please contact Emma Rose Gudewicz, Director of Development and Exhibitions, at egudewicz@evanstonartcenter.org or (847) 475-5300 x 102.

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council through federal funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Image Credits: Denise Presnell, "Sparks Are Flying," oil and cold wax on panel

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