Discover the vibrant and emotive world of Franck Sastre's art at Chelsea's Agora Gallery. His exhibition, "Encounters: Nature and Culture," showcases a collection where color and sensation know no bounds. Running from March 13 to April 3, 2018, with an opening reception on March 15, Sastre's paintings are a testament to the power and agency of modern female figures, rendered with a freedom that transcends naturalistic expression.
Franck Sastre's artwork is a visual feast that captivates the observer with its intricate interplay of line and texture. His dynamic compositions are predominantly centered around powerful female figures that symbolize the modern society. Sastre employs a diverse array of media, such as black ink, pencil, collage, and watercolor on various substrates like wood board and canvas. His creations, named 'Azalee', 'Iana', and 'Makeda', burst with color and pattern, advocating for an emotional vibrancy that overshadows realistic portrayal.
Sastre's artistry is a harmonious blend of influences, echoing the surrealism of Dali, the raw expressionism of Basquiat, and the abstract vibrancy of Kandinsky. His use of primary colors, notably red, black, and yellow, is a nod to the artistic heritage of his current home in Spain. The alternation of thick and thin lines, coupled with geometric shapes, creates a seamless visual dialogue that is both contemporary and reminiscent of these great masters.
Each subject in Sastre's paintings is imbued with a commanding pose and gaze, demanding the viewer's attention and conveying a sense of empowerment, fearlessness, and grace. Sastre himself articulates his intent, stating, "In my paintings, I see the people of my society in their different forms and colors, and I hope that my viewers feel the same admiration for this culture that I do."
The "Encounters: Nature and Culture" exhibition presents six artists whose works challenge the notion of objective understanding by highlighting the subjective nuances that each artist brings to their work. From realistic figures to imaginative truths, the exhibition explores the artist's role in shaping perception.
While the exhibition itself is a showcase of Sastre's and other artists' work, the broader context of art exhibitions like this one reveals interesting trends. For instance, the global art market reached a value of approximately $50 billion in 2020, with the United States accounting for 42% of total sales Art Basel and UBS Report. Moreover, female representation in the art world has been a topic of increasing discussion. A 2019 study by the National Museum of Women in the Arts found that among 18 major U.S. museums, 87% of the artists in their collections are male NMWA. Exhibitions like Sastre's, which prominently feature female figures, contribute to a gradual shift towards greater gender diversity in the art world.
In conclusion, Franck Sastre's paintings are not just visually striking; they are a profound statement on the power and agency of women in modern society. His work, along with that of his contemporaries, continues to shape the cultural landscape and challenge our perceptions of art and representation.
Fleeting Worlds: Wildlife Photography from Ellen Cuylaerts
NEW YORK, NY – Chelsea’s Agora Gallery will feature the original work of Ellen Cuylaerts in Encounters: Nature and Culture. The exhibition opens March 13, 2018 and runs through April 3, 2018 with an opening reception on Thursday, March 15 from 6-8 pm.
Ghosts of the Natural World: The Paintings of Elena Gastón Nicolás
NEW YORK, NY – Chelsea’s Agora Gallery will feature the original work of Elena Gastón in Encounters: Nature and Culture. The exhibition opens March 13, 2018 and runs through April 3, 2018 with an opening reception on Thursday, March 15 from 6-8 pm.
Zie Otto: Portraiture and Iconography
NEW YORK, NY – Chelsea’s Agora Gallery will feature the original work of Zie Otto in Encounters: Nature and Culture. The exhibition opens March 13, 2018 and runs through April 3, 2018 with an opening reception on Thursday, March 15 from 6-8 pm.
