Introducing “Allegory, Artist & Society”
Come visit the Julio Fine Arts Gallery’s newest exhibition, Allegory, Artist & Society, by Chris Wilson. Wilson’s artwork consists of a wide variety of paintings that come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Some of his paintings are abstract while others have very concrete images used to convey a message or tell a story. Wilson is a self-taught visual artist who possesses a desire to contribute to the history of art through his vivid memory and gift of storytelling. He lived in prison for nearly half of his life and now a “returned citizen” living a hyper-productive life, he has much to share and does so with generosity and candor. Wilson’s artistic process involves turning personal moments into expressive and emotional visions, while at the same time capturing frustrations of surviving the turmoil that haunts a person in a marginalized community. This invites the viewer to share in an event that most people will never experience and consider the lives of others.
Some of Wilson’s work allows for the viewer to interpret the meaning of the piece in any way they see fit. In the piece, Mama’s Boys, there are aspects that can be distinguished, but there are other parts which are more abstract, leaving the viewer to finish the story. Other pieces, such as Morgan State Drumline and Pandemic, are more concrete images. All of us have experienced the pandemic, and the figurative depiction of people wearing masks and ominous viral blobs are images we can all relate to. Not all of us have seen the Morgan State Drumline in the way that Wilson depicts them, but in either case, Wilson’s vibrant storytelling and expressive style draws us in to his life, his story.
The exhibition will run through February 21, 2022. In addition, there is a free public reception on February 10 from 6-8pm. During this time, Wilson will give a brief talk about his work. **Note that properly fitted masks will be required in the gallery—please help us keep everyone safe and healthy!
Our current gallery hours are Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri 10AM-4PM; Thu 10AM-8PM; and Sat/Sun 12-4PM. These hours are subject to change based on current health guidelines. To learn more about the Gallery’s programs and exhibitions visit julioartgallery.com or call 410-617-2799. Follow us on social media @JulioArtGallery for updates!
Post image: Mama’s Boys, Acrylic, aerosol, & fabric on canvas, 72 x 96 inches
