Lisa Adams

My piece on Adams' 2013 show Second Life is here.

Lisa Adams surreal montage of images covers much ground in each apparition she presents.  Combining many diverse techniques and elements, Adams does more than simply pull off a coherent psychic expedition.  An abstraction of a sign is draped by an over hang of leaves while storm clouds gather in the background. What works especially well is the thick striated paint in a solid powder blue that comprises the "sign." Not only do we get the juxtaposition of images that are representational but the inclusion of the ambiguous T shape, compels the viewer to the consideration of another depth of revelation.  In the top painting above, three contrasting white cloud shapes are layered against more layers that include a striking darkness, a blue gray lake and a raining burst of yellow.  Flowers perk up in odd places and the overall affect is a combination of time travel and creation.  One canvas shows death while another erupts with a spring bouquet. Graffiti covers a wall while an eyeless bird holds onto a stick that fades in space.  Each of these pieces tantalizes and teases us into considering that what we see holds much more than an interesting assembly of components.  Each piece presents us with an array of life elements going through the transition of birth and decay.

The show runs through January 15 at CB1 Gallery.  Make sure and check out Adam's book; the reproductions of her work are outstanding.