Two Artists Lighten Up: Martin/Murrell," in September at Park Slopes Studio/Gallery 64

Studio 64 Gallery, owned by artist Glen Martin, and part of Park Slopes growing art scene, is presenting new works by both Mr. Martin and his business partner, Carlton Murrell," on Saturday, Sept 17, from 6-9 p.m. Martin/Murrell," is a harmonious exhibit of lively, light-spirited paintings that dance along the edges of realism and impressionism.

(PRWEB) September 1, 2005 -- Studio 64 Gallery, owned by artist Glen Martin, and part of Park Slopes growing art scene, is presenting new works by both Mr. Martin and his business partner, Carlton Murrell," on Saturday, Sept 17, from 6-9 p.m. Martin/Murrell," is a harmonious exhibit of lively, light-spirited paintings that dance along the edges of realism and impressionism.

The two widely exhibited Caribbean-born artists have received substantial recognition for their works, which are part of many prestigious permanent corporate and institutional collections. In studying this latest exhibition of Mr. Martins and Mr. Murrells work, it is clear why these two, the co-curators of the Studio 64 Gallery, have partnered, as they share a sense of style that is easygoing and thoughtful.

Mr. Martin, whose works have been displayed at the Puck building and the Brooklyn borough Presidents office, plays with light and soft hues, evoking a subtle sensuality in his subjects. In some fine examples, one finds Caribbean beauties working on their everyday chores in quiet, contented harmony. Mr. Martins works are often figurative, and display a strong sense of color and the play of light. He also, in his own words," likes to experiment," and explores the use of various media, improvising in ways that blur the boundaries of what art should and shouldnt be."

Using a palette and an emotional tone that is a bit deeper than Martins, Mr. Murrell depicts scenes of sparsely populated roads and quiet woodland homes that convey an atmosphere of peaceful, quiet solitude. In one serene landscape painting, Mr. Murrells artful use of open, empty space in the image enables the viewer to find rest within the scene. In others, he pursues painting realistic urban landscapes that explore the many aspects of gesture and nuance. These snapshots of city life set in days or nights, in parks or streets, seek to realistically render familiar scenes, while paying homage to the impressionistic landscape tradition. His work has won him many awards and recognition by the American Biographical Institute among others, for his contribution to Caribbean art.

These artists do not take pains to challenge the viewer or provoke in the way so many iconoclastic artists attempt to these days; instead, Mr. Martin and Mr. Murrell provide peaceful, color saturated renderings that allow the mind and heart to wander quietly through each piece, simply admiring the way color dances on the canvas or a spirit moves like a soft breath across a subjects face. In essence, their deceptively simple, yet ultimately sophisticated approach, offers the viewer a refreshing sense of escape and freedom while remaining close to home.

Martin/Murrell" opens Saturday, September 17, from 6-9pm, at Studio 64 Gallery, 64 St Marks Ave (off 6th Ave), in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Phone: 718.638.2447,917.757.4515. The opening event will include music and refreshments. The Show runs through Oct 1,2005. Gallery hours are Sat and Sun 1-7pm, or by appointment.

###