Christopher Pelrine: I Don’t Paint For Your Comfort

*Works of Christopher Pelrine, made with materials including charcoal and house paint.*

Artist Christopher Pelrine thinks his art may not be for you—a feeling he openly points out with the title of his solo show at the BAYarts Sullivan Family Gallery in January. His large abstract pieces are active and in your face. They approach subjects that not everyone wants to think about: visual ruminations on darker subject matter, such as isolation, disconnection, fear, and even death.

On my recent visit to Pelrine’s studio in Akron, I was struck by the sheer passion Pelrine possesses for creating and the sheer number of provocative works created in many different mediums. According to Pelrine, a huge part of his artmaking is adventure. Not knowing where it’s going. Trusting his instinct. He says that part of him always wants to act like he doesn’t quite know what he’s doing. His brash use of materials like charcoal and house paint is evidence of this.

According to Pelrine “If you’re making art just to do something new or interesting or stay busy, it’s a hobby. If you’re doing it to find or make a living, then it’s a job. If you’re doing it to find cultural relevance, to be part of the dialogue, to find answers, then it’s a purpose and a mission.” Pelrine is on a mission.

Please join us for I Don’t Paint For Your Comfort in the Sullivan Family Gallery this January. According to Christopher Pelrine, “there are too many broken records playing in contemporary art. But there are quite a few new ones as well.” This record is new. Leave your need for comfort at the door.