When cornered, Mary Ann Peters comes out drawing. Even when her resources are depleted and her imagination drained, she can count on the marks her hand makes. They’re beautiful, no question, but they’re also flaccid imitations of her work when it’s focused and intense. Allusions to remembered landscapes become allusions to upscale wine bars. I can imagine sitting beside one doing double duty as wallpaper as a waiter glides up to take my order.
and the edge becomes the center, 2009, Watercolor and gouache on clayboard, 96″ x 120″
Besides the above painting, her exhibit at James Harris Gallery features a series of small drawings. They lack the turgid sense of empty overkill that ruined the painting, but even though fresher, they’re still Peters in a minor vein.
Her 2006 exhibit at the same gallery was superior in every way.
Through Nov. 14.
I think you’re saying the beautiful isn’t enough. It is for me.