“There is a fundamental visual component to learning to read, in the same way that language is an integral part of understanding art.”
–R. Alexander Gallery Director, Rhonda DiMatteo
This quote is a great introduction to discussing the relationship between art and language. Artists have been using language and linguistic devices in art for so long, that the symbiotic relationship between art and language has only solidified. Conceptual artists in particular use language in order to convey the significance of the meaning of the work over the aesthetic qualities. Conceptual art, also known as conceptualism, values the symbols, visual metaphors, and visual narrative devices embedded into the works. The role of language in art is one of introspection, challenging the way we perceive and interpret the work.
R. Alexander Fine Art values the examination of conceptual art, so we have created a group exhibition centered on the idea of language influencing art, of art influencing language, in order to benefit students with dyslexia and to spur a conversation with the greater Atlanta area about the implications of language in art. Artists such as Pat Hobaugh, Victor Bregeda, Brad Robertson, Gail Foster, and Frane Mlinar, emphasize conceptualism as a form of language that encourages the viewer to “read” a painting in various contexts. (The idea that one “reads” a painting is also very common, as a painting can be considered a visual narrative.)
R. Alexander Fine Art has partnered with the Atlanta nonprofit organization REAP (Reading is Essential to All People) and The Schenck School in order to bring awareness to dyslexia and the need for specialized teacher training in all public schools. Both organizations focus on training teachers in this specific field and both seek to provide a productive environment in which struggling readers can flourish. Our exhibition will feature the works of R. Alexander artists as well as works completed by students with dyslexia who have been taught about the mutual relationship between art and language.
Artist Pat Hobaugh has gone to The Schenck School to teach the students about art and how language contributes to the narrative represented in art. Our reception on October 17, 2014, from 6 to 10 pm, will feature the works completed by the students and will be up for auction. (A portion of all sales will benefit both organizations.) RSVP by clicking here!
R. Alexander Fine Art 