MARFA — McLennon Pen Co. Gallery will premiere a traveling exhibition showcasing a first look at new collage and resin paintings by artist Ashley Swarts. The exhibition will debut in Marfa at Do Right Hall during Chinati Weekend, followed by a second showing at McLennon Pen Co.’s permanent space in Austin.
Swarts is currently based in Austin but remains closely connected to both Marfa, where she lived for seven years, and her hometown of Las Vegas. These ties inspired the idea of taking her show on the road. She has been deeply influenced by the distinctive commercial signage in each city, where bold graphics and unique typography shape the visual landscape. From vintage light box and neon signs to clever reader board and marquee messages, the relaxed, quirky, and humorous style of this Southwestern version of street art features a distinct and beloved aesthetic that is reflected in Swarts’ paintings.
“Waiting for a Sign is the culmination of 13 years of collaging and a lifetime of art making,” Swarts said. “The magazines I collect are magic. Or, maybe the muses choose to play with me through my favorite medium. I let what I find in the pages lead my work. Cutting out each page, I save what I want and discard the rest. Each piece gets filed away by color. Next I create a stencil version of my subject. In this case, my subjects are broken, yet charming, road signs. Each shape is plain and rigid, yet filled with an infinity of intoxicating potential.”
The opening reception will be on Friday, October 11, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Do Right Hall, 110 West Dallas in Marfa. For more information, see mclennonpenco.com.