Nature in its constant evolution is adapting to new environments either to abide by it or oppose it. Oftentimes, pre-existing forms and methods must assume new characteristics: vines and weeds will begin to expand into the tiniest of crevasses in walls and walkways, smaller animals learn to avoid roads in fear of incoming traffic, tree roots will grow into plumbing for consistent sources of water, just to name a few examples. Likewise, human innovation often draws from nature as its inspiration, since it embodies aesthetic and functional perfection. Nevertheless, despite the seemingly conflictual relationship between the natural and synthetic realms, there still remains a latent connection between the two.
Zachari Logan, Human Heart Made of Plants, 2016, pastel on black paper, 20″ x 26″. Image courtesy of Paul Petro Contemporary Art
Zachari Logan’s exhibition, Forgotten Selves, focuses on the unconscious relationship that exists between the individual, and by conjunction mankind, and nature. In addition, there is a hidden awareness within nature that is exemplified through the presence of plant life – with its simultaneous dormancy and vitality – which, according to George Gessert, “are reminders of the structures that sustain consciousness.” Logan utilizes pastel and pencil to create brilliantly elaborate patterns, depicting woven flowers, branches, and vines. Through a combination of vibrant, naturalistic colors and careful arrangement of the subject matter, his works are cleverly represent nature or internal bodily systems that they are named after. For example, the largest work in the exhibition, entitled “Pool 1,” displays a busy assortment of colorful flora, intertwined as if they were a single continuous organism, within an ovular ring of light. The composition appears to mimic microscopic views of cells and/or its various mechanisms. It is the use of motifs of living things to display the intricacies of life that frequently remain elusive: our forgotten selves.
Zachari Logan, Pool 1, 2016, pastel on black paper, 92″ x 60″. Image courtesy of Paul Petro Contemporary Art
In addition to this exhibition, Zachari Logan will be conducting a performative drawing event on Saturday, June 25th, where up to forty-nine members of the audience will chose a flower and have a fifteen minute portrait done in support of the recent Orlando crisis. The portraiture will begin at 2 pm of that day and will extend into the evening.
Zachari Logan, Wild Man 13, Flora, 2016, blue pencil on Mylar, 22″ x 29 1/2″. Image courtesy of Paul Petro Contemporary Art
English Breakfast by Morley Shayuk is a collection of small abstract paintings, accompanied by a gesso sculpture, that re-examines the original functions and aesthetics of organic structures.
Morley Shayuk, Untitled, 2016, driftwood, stucco and gesso, 9″ x 15″ x 22 1/2″. Image courtesy of Paul Petro Contemporary Art
To contrast the realism of Zachari Logan, Morley Shayuk utilizes a painterly style characterized by its soft contours, faded colors, and expressionistic forms. As such, the works appear fluidic and transformative, with any representative qualities slowly dissolving into abstraction. Consequently, this conveys a sense of dynamism and spontaneity that is pleasing to look at.
Morley Shayuk, Untitled, 2016, oil on Masonite, 18 1/2″ x 14″. Image courtesy of Paul Petro Contemporary Art
By reinterpreting these organic shapes with this distinctive style, “the themes of nature become ornamental, objectified, and controlled through experimental and time based working methods.” Shayuk approaches nature more pragmatically, simplifying natural elements to portray the exuberant energy they possess while seeking to contain them within the composition.
Morley Shayuk, Night, 2016, oil on canvas, 24″ x 32″. Image courtesy of Paul Petro Contemporary Art
Zachari Logan and Morley Shayuk explore the complexities of nature, examining its potential connections in itself, between other organisms, and within a societal context, with juxtaposing approaches in both theme and style.
Simon Termine
*Exhibition information: Zachari Logan, Forgotten Selves & Morley Shayuk, English Breakfast, June 3 – July 2, 2016, Paul Petro Contemporary Art, 980 Queen St West, Toronto. Gallery hours: Wed – Sat, 11 – 5 p.m.