The collaborative exhibition “bartlett jensen judd : No Illusions” at the 125 Newbury gallery brings together the iconic works of Jennifer Bartlett, Alfred Jensen, and Donald Judd. This exhibition invites viewers to delve into the transformative impact of these artists’ commitment to redefining systems of abstraction and exploring the essence of art as material presence rather than illusion.
Understanding the Artists and Their Work
Alfred Jensen: Mysticism in Geometry and Color
bartlett jensen judd work combines influences from Mayan and Babylonian traditions with his deeply personal philosophies. His vibrant geometric compositions, rooted in mathematical and astronomical themes, serve as an emblem of his introspective genius. Although his theoretical underpinnings might not be essential to the viewer, the vivid colors and intricate patterns resonate universally, leaving an indelible impression.
Donald Judd: Minimalism Redefined
Donald Judd revolutionized the art of the 20th century by emphasizing the physicality and presence of his works. His sculptures, often made of unpainted plywood, exhibit an almost spiritual reverence for simplicity. These pieces transform logical systems into emotional experiences, offering a striking dialogue with Jensen’s intricate canvases.
Jennifer Bartlett: Subjectivity Within Structure
Jennifer Bartlett challenged minimalism’s aesthetic rigidity by infusing personal expression into structural systems. Her large-scale steel plate paintings, arranged in gridded patterns, bridge the gap between conceptual and painterly traditions. Bartlett’s compositions embrace mathematical logic while allowing subjective interpretations to flourish, making her works both analytical and deeply emotive.
The Central Theme: Art Beyond Illusion
The unifying theme of “No Illusions” is the artists’ shared rejection of illusion in favor of tangible reality. Bartlett’s dot-filled grids, Jensen’s symbolic patterns, and Judd’s minimalist sculptures collectively celebrate art as an object of physical and emotional truth. Their works embody a profound interplay between rational systems and the artists’ individuality, transforming their creations into powerful statements of presence and meaning.
Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition, running at 125 Newbury, showcases pivotal pieces from each artist, offering a comprehensive glimpse into their creative evolution. Jensen’s canvases from the 1960s and 1970s, Judd’s sculptures from the 1970s and 1980s, and Bartlett’s works spanning decades highlight the artists’ exploration of structure, materiality, and personal expression.
Conclusion
“No Illusions” invites viewers to engage with art that transcends visual aesthetics to evoke raw, unfiltered emotional responses. Through the unique contributions of Bartlett, Jensen, and Judd, the exhibition underscores the power of art to challenge perceptions and ignite a dialogue between the tangible and the transcendent.
For those interested in exploring the depths of modern art and its ability to intertwine logic with mysticism, this exhibition is a must-see.
