I've missed at least one opening at Wax Poetic, maybe two. But thankfully I'm able to make the one tonight, because the Halloween show always rocks. Tonight it's this guy who takes children's monster drawings and turns them into real art:
The dorky thing I always do is that I have an appointment today, so then I end up going into Wax Poetic and being like, I'm not looking! I'm not looking! lol It always feels like cheating to see the art early.
WAX POETIC GALLERY PRESENTS THE ART OF DAVE DEVRIES: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24TH, 2009
Wax Poetic Gallery is proud to present the electrifying, colorful, and transformative pieces from the artist Dave Devries. Opening reception will be held Saturday, October 24th, 2009 from 8-11 p.m.; records will be spinning and refreshments will be served. This show is suitable for all ages and will be on display through the end of December.
Based out of New Jersey, Devries’ artwork is centered around a comic book inspired form of illustration, taking characters from the pulp fiction classics and creating a dramatic sense of movement and atmosphere that is both playful, detailed and exaggerated. He’s done a few covers for Marvel and DC comics, but is mostly known for his trading card illustrations. There isn’t a more complete way to pay homage to such an iconic genre.
Devries also utilizes his talent in illustration in a startlingly unique way, with something known as the Monster Engine. Dave created an outlet for children’s artwork, taking the lopsided sketches and the painfully creative doodles that are typical of that age group and then elaborating on them with the professional skill he has. “Something really amazing happens when words collide with images”, says Devries. We agree. The finished product is an updated, detail oriented version of the original, staying true to the child’s vision while being realized as a true piece of art. He came up with this idea through his niece Jessica’s doodles and the curiosity to embellish upon them on a whim.
Realizing one’s potential is probably the most important goal and landmark of growing up as a child, and it’s a rarity to find the platform by which to do that. Every once in a while a talented individual acts as a mentor to those who have the vision but perhaps not the resources.
Says Dave, “Kids are entertaining, but, to my knowledge, are rarely taken seriously. They're like the world's mascots--cherished yes, but trusted with important tasks, no. When they draw they are largely ignored because their art serves no practical purpose--- and frankly adults don't ask about the content with any real interest. Sure some adults care but as a whole most ignore kids' drawings. In contrast, after I complete a painting based upon a child's drawing, I conduct an interview. Since I sincerely value their art and keenly listen to their monster descriptions, children open up and share their energy. One boy started his interview sullen and withdrawn, clearly and sadly inhibited by his parent's dismissive pre-interview comments, but once he saw how much I cared about his ideas, he lit up despite his parent's presence. That said it all to me.” Such is the case with Dave Devries, an artist with a touching outlook and an engaging eye for the supernatural. We excitedly invite you to attend our Halloween show, so that you can first hand experience the enchantment and delight that we so happily look forward to.
If you would like to check out some of his work go to www.themonsterengine.com.
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