Upon first glance, those who are not familiar with the massive detailed paintings of Chuck Close may mistake them as photographs. Upon closer inspection, viewers realize that they are looking at a painting so realistic it could only be the result of a careful photo study. What people may not know is that as Close experimented with colors and shapes in this paintings, he also experimented with a variety of photo techniques ranging from old fashioned daguerreotypes to high tech holograms.
“ONE OF THE THINGS THAT IS SO FASCINATING ABOUT HIM IS THAT HE IS LOOKING BOTH FORWARD AND BACKWARDS,” says Terrie Sultan, the director of the Parrish Art Museum
Until July 26th, the Parrish Museum in NY is showing a collection of rare photographs that aided Close in creating his influential paintings. Through this exhibit, you are able to reach a whole new level of appreciation for his explorative creative process over the past few decades.
While you’re at the Parrish Museum, be sure to check out Tara Donovan‘s awesome slinky sculpture installation.
