ERIC FISCHL
On 31 October 2009 the Mary Boone Gallery will open at its Chelsea location “Corrida in Ronda”, an exhibition of paintings by ERIC FISCHL.
The subject of this new series is the Corrida Goyesca held each September in the Andalusian town of Ronda. The toreros, or bullfighters, dress in 18th century attire as in the era of the Spanish painter Goya, who designed their distinctive costume. This theatrical and picturesque tradition, rich in the history of art and literature, persists in the face of increasing sentiment that it is outdated and inhumane.
As in his earlier depictions of suburban America, the French Riviera, India, and Rome, Fischl here captures particular customs through color, viewpoint, and attention to ritualized gestures. Working from his own photographs, in these eight large paintings Fischl situates the bull as the crux of each composition. The intense Mediterranean light is devised to sharply divide each image between areas of dazzling color and dark shadow enlivened by Fischl’s characteristically deft handling of paint.
The exhibition, at 541 West 24 Street, will run through 19 December 2009.Please contact Ron warren at the Gallery if we can be of further assistance, or visit our website www.maryboonegallery.com.
