Gordon Powell, American, 1947-
2010
wood, dyed glue, and paint
Chicago abstract artist Gordon Powell describes his work as having to do with “building, about putting things together to make a physical form.” He manipulates common objects and positions them in new and unexpected contexts.
In Construction with Orange, Powell uses pieces of wood to create a sculptural relief. He forms a puzzle-like surface with painted and whitewashed pieces, joins them with dyed glue to provide linear definition, and adds surface cuts in some areas. Notice how Powell allows the grains, imperfections and natural formations of the wood to be an integral part of his work. His construction creates allusion, hinting at indefinable elements suggestive of the visible world. What does one see? Powell invites the viewer to decide.
Gordon Powell received his M.F.A. from the University of Illinois in Chicago and his B.F.A. from the School of the Art Institute, where he now serves as a full adjunct professor. His many awards include the prestigious Prix de Rome and a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. His work is in numerous collections, including the Art Institute of Chicago.