The only thing I've found similar between nature in the landscape and the nature of the human condition is that light falls alike on each. I can't resolve the madness of mankind on Earth and its utter absurdity; I include myself in this observation. The beauty of "artistic philosophy" is that it's oxymoronic and can change. – Bruce MacDonaldOn view in the Regional Artists Gallery at the Bennington Museum are satirical paintings of Bruce M. MacDonald. The artist has divided ways to visualize, one being influenced by the 15th century Dutch landscape painters, and some of the 20th century American realists. The other, portrayed in this exhibit, is a form of social realism using cartoon-as-art to depict the artist’s expression of the twenty-first century human condition. He has become known for his unique style of copper plate etchings combined with the subtleties of water color which he developed. Much of his work is based in the history of social satire and commentary from Goya, Hogarth, and Daumier. This exhibition opens February 4 and is on view through March 18. Visit with the artist on Saturday, February 4 from 3:00 to 4:30 pm.
MacDonald is a self-taught artist who was born near Boston in 1944. Educated through self chosen courses of art and philosophy at several colleges, he hones his skills working with mentors such as Shelly Fink. He began exhibiting formally in the late 1960s with major shows locally in the Highpoint Galleries, the Barrington House, and the Art Union. During the 1970s he was a contributing artist for Up Country Magazine, the Berkshire Eagle, Sports Illustrated, Ski Magazine and also created murals for Westbridge Associates and a variety of Berkshire sites.He operated his own gallery, The Art Orphanage, in Lenox for a decade beginning in 1973 during which time he continued to work as a contributing artist for area advertising companies, Time Life, and Biography Records. MacDonald also exhibited his work in art shows across the county at locations including the NY Racquet Club, Philadelphia Prices Gallery, and several galleries in San Francisco. Locally, his work was on view in the Tyringham Gallery, Welles Gallery, Joy of Art, Train Station Gallery, and the Becket Arts Center. He currently lives and works in his studio in Adams, MA. Some of his most recent works include a series of children’s books for Richard C. Owens Publishers, Inc.
The Bennington Museum is located at 75 Main Street (Route 9), Bennington. Regular admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and students over 18. Admission is never charged for younger students or to visit the museum shop and café.
Images:
The Ball of Gold, 24” x 30” oil on canvas
The Mask Family, 16” x 20” watercolor/ink
