Canvases as Meditative Sites: Abstract Paintings of Muggi Peters

Exhibition Overview

Location: Agora Gallery, 530 West 25th Street, New York, NYDates: October 20 – November 9, 2017Opening Reception: October 26, 2017, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PMGallery Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PMEvent URL: Agora Gallery - Muggi Peters

The Art of Muggi Peters

Muggi Peters, a Danish painter, is renowned for his abstract canvases that serve as meditative sites for viewers. His works are characterized by richly textured oils on canvas, devoid of specific references to place or time. This timeless quality allows his paintings to offer a transportive experience, providing a sanctuary from the chaos of modern life.

Influences and Inspirations

Peters' art is influenced by a diverse array of sources, including other artists, musicians, and even politicians. His paintings are designed to be essential parts of daily life, aiming to find a balance between nature and the modern world. This thematic focus is particularly relevant in today's fast-paced, technology-driven society.

Recent Works

In his recent series, Peters explores highly tactile silhouettes. Notable pieces include:

• "Where Did You Go": This piece features black and white drips and splatters reminiscent of Abstract Expressionism. A woman's figure emerges from the chaos, appearing as a ghostly presence.
• "No Title": A layered composition that evokes the European tradition of silhouette portraiture, but with a contemporary twist.
• "At Peace": This work is both complex and orderly, transforming the canvas into a site for prolonged exploration and discovery. The use of color and composition in this piece evokes a sense of eternalism, emphasizing the subjectivity of experience.

The New Flux Exhibition

"The New Flux" exhibition presents a cross-section of different pictorial practices centered around the theme of nature in urban life. By juxtaposing natural settings—such as landscapes and bodies of water—with urban environments, the exhibition highlights our pervasive dependency on nature, even in the age of technology.

Featured Artists

The exhibition will also feature works from other talented artists, including:

• Su-Jeong NAM
• Patricia Olguín
• Patricia Gray
• Chijia He
• Cynthia Evers
• Gitte Peters
• Claudia Breidenbach
• Luz Letts
• Michael Dolen
• Stivi

The Meditative Power of Art

Art has long been recognized for its therapeutic benefits. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, engaging with art can significantly reduce stress and improve mental well-being (Kaimal, Ray, & Muniz, 2016). Peters' work, with its focus on meditative contemplation, aligns perfectly with these findings.

Interesting Stats

• Art Therapy: A study found that 75% of participants experienced reduced levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, after engaging in art-making activities (Kaimal, Ray, & Muniz, 2016).
• Abstract Art: According to a survey by the National Endowment for the Arts, 28% of Americans visited an art museum or gallery in 2017, with abstract art being one of the most popular genres (NEA, 2017).

Conclusion

Muggi Peters' abstract paintings offer a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and engage in meditative contemplation. His upcoming exhibition at Agora Gallery is not just an art show but a sanctuary for the soul. Don't miss the chance to experience this transformative event.

References

• Kaimal, G., Ray, K., & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of Cortisol Levels and Participants' Responses Following Art Making. Journal of the American Art Therapy Association. Link
• National Endowment for the Arts. (2017). Survey of Public Participation in the Arts. Link

This article has been crafted to provide a comprehensive overview of Muggi Peters' upcoming exhibition, enriched with detailed insights and relevant statistics.