Abstract America Today, Saatchi Gallery

The legacy of Abstract painting is central concern for nine contemporary artists at the Saatchi Gallery: Abstract America Today runs until 28th September 

Abstract America Today, presents a promising set of American painters who are diligently restoring the lost connection between contemporary art and painting. Has painting lost its value in our ‘digital age’? The debate is still open. Abstract America Today is for those who are both nostalgic for the pure aesthetic experience, but also seek something new. 

The Exhibition…

One of the most interesting names to look our for is the Yale educated, Brooklyn-based artist Keltie Ferris who, taking influence from the iconic painter Jackson Pollock, presents an all-over painted surface that theatrically overpowers vision. Critics have said her work expresses “pure energy.” One must succumb to these works rather than distantly observe them. Paralleling Pollock’s attitude to painting, Ferris frequently makes the comparison between paintings and human beings. Her works have their own autonomy and unyielding power. 

The show is interesting as it explores the legacy of post-war abstract expressionism as both an idea and a visual language across varied forms. Brent Wadden’s woven creations evoke Folk Art whilst Trudy Benson traverses the digital gap by painting images created on computer drawing programmes. 

Critical view…

As Guardian critic Jonathan Jones has recently declared: “Contemporary art isn’t original – even copying has been done before” highlighting the general state of anxiety the art world is facing today. Indeed, what is ‘original’? Perhaps the Saatchi gallery are highlighting the unshakeable fact that painting will always maintain its integrity as an artistic medium. Its traditional form rebels and resists the digital, the virtual, and the ephemeral. 'Abstract America' might be different today, but this show claims that painting can endure for tomorrow.