July 11 – September 1, 2013
Dominick Di Meo, Flagman, 1964. Synthetic polymer on canvas. Courtesy of the artist
Dominick Di Meo, Untitled (blue and orange with black figures), 1965. Acrylic and synthetic polymer on canvas. Courtesy of the artist
Dominick Di Meo, Love Song, 1968. Acrylic and crayon on canvas. Courtesy of the artist
Dominick Di Meo, Visionary Garden, 1980s. Polymer, acrylic, and fabric on canvas. Courtesy of the artist
Dominick Di Meo was a member of the so-called Monster Roster, Chicago artists who in the mid-twentieth century developed a distinct approach to the human figure: disarticulated and often terrifying. Although his work has changed over time, there are also strong threads of continuity, none clearer than the motif of the disembodied face: a round form with three small circles picking out elemental features that suggest an expression of surprise or horror. Sometimes these fill the picture plane, others are as tiny and repetitive as buttons. Large or small, they contribute to both the disquiet and the fascination Di Meo’s work engenders.
We thank the artist, who has graciously lent the works shown, and John Corbett and Jim Dempsey of Corbett vs. Dempsey Gallery for their assistance with the exhibition.