Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am-2 pm
In a celebration of the profound influence of color in art, The Lobby’s “Shriek of Color” exhibit, curated by Sima Familant, offers a unique journey through the world of color as a central narrative element. From abstraction to representation and even as a focus in its own right, color takes center stage in the work of renowned artists. The exhibit opens Oct. 25, with an evening opening and talk featuring artist Alex Olson, whose work is showcased in the exhibit.
The exhibition’s genesis can be traced back to Edvard Munch’s iconic masterpiece, “The Scream,” which the artist created after experiencing a panic attack during a stroll along a fjord. The vivid crimson hues of the sunset depict the intensity of the experience.
“When I began thinking about an exhibit that would start in October, ‘The Scream’ immediately came to mind,” Familant said. “The choice of color can evoke distinct impressions, moods, context, and even environments. Portland has such a unique and vibrant arts scene, and I think some of that flair can be experienced in the myriad colors seen in ‘Shriek of Color,’” she said. “I’m so excited to share these artists’ works with the community here.”
Artists Redefining the Role of Color “Shriek of Color” features a diverse array of artists who wield color with precision and creativity.
• Matthew Wong’s hidden forms: Wong uses a tapestry of colors, where a bird emerges only upon close inspection.
• Chris Ofili’s captivating blooms: Ofili transforms individuals into captivating bursts of color, enhancing the image.
• Sam Gilliam’s mastery of abstraction: In legendary American color field painter Gilliam’s 1970s art, color births abstraction, leading to compelling narratives.
• Ed Clark and Zipora Fried’s unique approaches: Clark lets color dictate form, while Fried plays with stacked lines to create vibrant color experiences.
• Alex Olson’s emotional juxtaposition: Olson’s divided canvas challenges perception with chaotic colors colliding against serene monochromatic stillness.
• James Welling’s photographic narrative: Welling breaks stereotypes by making color an integral part of the narrative in his photography depicting the Glass House.
• Joan Snyder’s visceral expressions: Snyder’s loose depictions and bold strokes suggest, rather than define, objects within her paintings.
• Hayal Pozanti’s monumental explorations: Turkish-American artist Pozanti’s hands-on approach creates soft, undulating forms that explore profound themes like nature and love.
• Fred Eversley’s mastery of timelessness: Eversley’s color encased in resin captures and preserves color as art.
“Shriek of Color” opens Oct. 25 and will run through April 30. The Lobby is free and open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 am to 2 pm
About The Lobby
Located in the Ellen Browning Building, a luxury cohousing development on 2871 SE Division St., The Lobby is a boutique exhibition space dedicated to the community and carefully curated to encourage creativity, thoughtful design, and a sense of purpose and connection. Rotating every four to six months, the exhibitions feature works curated by Sima Familant with a personal lens from curating building owner Molly McCabe’s private art collection. Since The Lobby’s inception in May 2022, the space has been wholeheartedly committed to giving back to the community and the heart of the city. The founders were inspired to share beautiful highly curated art with passersby as a way to experience the beauty of contemporary art from a new vantage point, connect with artists from around the world, and escape the demands of everyday life.