John Abbott has been crisscrossing the country, sizing up wall space and sharing his perspective through text-based painting, in two new solo exhibitions New York and Chicago.
“I am interested in the relationships between reading and looking,” explained Abbott, assistant professor of painting and drawing at Western New Mexico University.
The exhibits recently opened in two American cities known for art, architecture and powerful messages. Abbott jumped at the opportunity to showcase his work, which he believes can be inspirational to students attending WNMU.
“I would like WNMU students to be empowered so that they can go on from here and accomplish whatever they want,” said Abbott. “It is my aim to bring the excitement and openness of my studio practice into the classroom.”
Abbott earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from WNMU in 2002. He returned to Silver City as a professor, more than a decade after graduating. Abbott earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin and taught art at several universities before choosing to work for his alma mater.
“My artwork is diaristic in nature,” said Abbott. “The content of the work is pulled from my experiences.”
Abbott’s pieces range from small to large canvases with simple messages. Words like “Cosmos”, “Pontiac”, and “Sunday” are intended to give an insight into Abbott’s life experiences.
“I want the words I choose to have meaning to me but be open ended enough for poetic ruminations,” explained Abbott. “I may reference a specific moment but the words chosen are intended to have multiple reads and points of access for the viewer.”
His artwork is on display at Pierogi Gallery, Brooklyn, New York; and Devening Projects gallery in Chicago, Illinois.
For more information, visit johnphillipabbott.com.