The Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts is pleased to present Dan Dempster’s “Ithuriel: Fractal Shallows, Infinite Depths” now on view through April 2024. This large-scale exhibition of graphite paintings explores the power of noticing the spectacular detail that surrounds and pervades our lives.
Inspired by the fractal patterns of movement of water and light in tide pool and river shallows, and satellite views of snow-capped mountain ranges and fjords, these paintings are both stimulating and contemplative.
At first, these paintings delight through association: ideas float to the surface, are noticed and dissolve, images fluidly morphing into other images.
Gradually, as we let go of ideation, we relax into enjoying the painting for itself. We find ourselves focusing deeper, noticing with astonishment the detail-within-detail nested and unfolding within even the smallest detail. We become aware of a beauty of vastness in one thing, in everything.
These paintings are teachers, helping us to see the magic of our surroundings as children do: a world filled with wonder, delight and awe. They bring us great peace of mind, and teach us how to find it.
The paintings are accompanied by a single large, exquisitely detailed drawing and two stainless steel cloth sculptures showing from different points of view the artist’s appreciation of the movement of water and light.
Dempster’s exhibition opened on February 16 to accompany the opening of “Tiny, Beautiful Things” led by the extraordinary Karissa Bruin. It continues through April during the Center’s regular shows and activities, and by appointment. Arrive early to enjoy the art and meet the artist pre-show. To arrange a private viewing, please text 424 350 8186.
The show is also accompanied by Dempster’s tiny, beautiful things now available in Annie’s: wall or desk mounted copper and steel sculpture, miniature abstract expressionist paintings, and oils of Wolf Creek skiers.
Acquire a conversation piece for your home or office, support Pagosa’s artist of water and light, and support the Pagosa Springs Center for the Art. A 30% commission from every sale goes to the Center.
Follow Dan on Instagram at Dan.Dempster.Contemporary and browse his website at http://www.DempsterContemporary.Art
Currently on view at the Dempster Fine Art Gallery in The Springs Resort Lodge is an exhibition of Dempster’s detailed waterworks drawings and winter plein air oil paintings done on site at The Springs and upstream along the San Juan. The gallery is free and open to the public 8am to 10pm daily.
Dempster’s summer plein air oil paintings of the San Juan river are on view at PJs Fine Bamboo on Main Street Pagosa.