Bonfoey Gallery is excited to present
Laurence Channing: Paintings and Pastels
November 12th through December 30th, 2021
The exhibition is comprised of a collection of artworks in which Channing depicts various Cleveland scenes. Highly acclaimed for his ability to seductively capture the lesser praised areas of our city, Channing’s works detail authentic parts that often get lost behind the façade of trendy streets and affluent neighborhoods scattered throughout the city.
The work in this exhibition stays rooted in his authentic views of Cleveland, but stray from his recognizable charcoal drawings. The pieces, made primarily with pastels, are different than what one might think when they hear the name Laurence Channing. The collection is almost entirely comprised of works in color! Though not completely new terrain for Channing, they are different from other color work he’s done in the past. These images are grittier and harder; the use of color adds a striking element to the work we know so well.
According to Channing, “It is the artist’s task to give meaning to images of that battered, inchoate, and lovely world; through leaving out, keeping in, and remaining alert to the suggestions offered by our work itself, as it struggles to exist.” Channing does just that.
Since he recognizes his unique ability as an artist to portray interpretations of our world, no matter the imperfections, it is no wonder he turns to color to further exemplify the unforeseen beauty of our city. The vibrant portrayals of these views bring life to otherwise desolate and somber scenes.
As locals, we turn to the work of Laurence Channing to remind us of the bones of our city. Though not necessarily attractive in their existence, these places are as much a part of Cleveland as its famous landmarks and attractions.
So, to Laurence Channing, we say thank you for being one of the great artists of our city and for acting upon your gifted ability to portray our city in such dynamic ways.
