What's Happening?
Berry Campbell Gallery in New York is hosting an exhibition titled 'Lynne Drexler: A Painted Aria,' which focuses on the artist's work from the 1970s. During this period, Drexler attended the Metropolitan
Opera frequently, and the music became both the subject and inspiration for her paintings. The exhibition features approximately 20 works, including six large-scale canvases, showcasing Drexler's unique visual lexicon developed in response to music. The show builds on a previous exploration of Drexler's work from 1959 to 1969, highlighting the significance of her 1970s creations in the context of 20th-century abstraction. Gail Levin, in her essay for the exhibition's catalogue, suggests that Drexler may have experienced synesthesia, a condition where sensory perceptions overlap, allowing her to perceive color through taste, sound, or touch.
Why It's Important?
The exhibition is significant as it sheds light on a lesser-known period of Lynne Drexler's career, emphasizing her contributions to the development of abstract art in the 20th century. Drexler's work during the 1970s, influenced by opera music, represents a unique intersection of art and sensory experience, potentially offering new insights into the role of synesthesia in artistic creation. By revisiting this period, the exhibition not only reassesses Drexler's artistic foundations but also expands the understanding of abstraction's possibilities. This exploration may influence contemporary artists and art historians in their appreciation of sensory-driven art.
What's Next?
The exhibition 'Lynne Drexler: A Painted Aria' is open to the public at Berry Campbell Gallery in New York until November 15, 2025. Art enthusiasts and scholars may continue to explore Drexler's work, potentially leading to further exhibitions or studies on her influence in abstract art. The recognition of synesthesia in Drexler's work could inspire new research into the condition's impact on artistic expression, encouraging a broader dialogue on the sensory experiences that shape art.
Beyond the Headlines
The exhibition highlights the cultural and emotional dimensions of Drexler's work, offering a deeper understanding of how personal experiences and sensory perceptions can influence artistic creation. The exploration of synesthesia in Drexler's paintings may prompt discussions on the ethical and philosophical implications of sensory-driven art, challenging traditional boundaries between senses and art forms.
