Dark Americana: An Introduction To The Work of Artist Andrew Carr
This week, I’m taking a break from the usual Scouting NY fare to introduce you to an extremely talented and as-yet unrecognized artist named Andrew Carr (who also happens to be my brother).
An artist in formal training since early childhood, Andrew has spent the last decade building up his portfolio, producing literally thousands of pieces while also working on commission.
He recently moved to New York City in an attempt to break into the art world, and it’s my privilege to present his artwork publicly here for the first time. I hope you find his work as compelling as I do. Comments and reactions are welcome below.
Andrew is currently seeking representation. If you like what you see and are in a position to help, you can contact Andrew directly at AndrewCarr@gmail.com, or visit his website, AndrewCarr.net. He is also available for commissions via the same contact.
Finally: do me a favor on this one. Rather than scroll quickly through as you might a slideshow on Buzzfeed, really take a moment with each piece as you would in a gallery. While I realize a small computer monitor can’t possibly do justice to a 24″ x 40″ canvas, you can click on any piece for an enlarged version to further examine the vibrant colors and rich textures found in Andrew’s work.
Broken Records: The Weathermen Series
Andrew’s most recent series examines the heralding of climate change. Text from the collection’s description:
“Broken Records is a time capsule of inaction, circa 2010-2014.”
10/30/2012, New Jersey: Spaghetti Model
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 44″
“It reveals the many faces of climate change, from the slaphappy smiles of our weather prophets…”
6/1/2011, Massachusetts: Touchdown
Oil on Canvas, 26″ x 36″
“…to the extreme weather events afflicting nations across the geographic and political spectrums.”
3/2/2014, Missouri: Kansas High
Oil on Canvas, 30″ x 20″
“In 50 years, as the children of both believers and disbelievers face the long term consequences of climate change, they will wonder how we could have forecasted our doom with such sexually-infused, hyperactive ignorance.”
1/2-8/2013, Australia: Deep Purple
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 42″
6/28/2013, Arizona: Flagstaff Furnace
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 40″
11/8/2013, Philippines: The Largest Storm on Earth
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 40″
“Aesthetically, weather reports provide another opportunity for me to use the vivid, intense hues seen in my past series.”
Summer, 2010, Russia: Severe Heat Wave
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 40″
“I did not paint from still images, but rather clipped together the most apt elements of various weather reports to convey a time, a culture, and a missed opportunity…”
5/25/2013, New Hampshire
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 42″
“…to panic.”
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE SERIES IN FULL
Glowing Frames
Some time ago, Andrew became interested in examining the nature of frame design and construction. Text from the collection’s description:
“For centuries, frames have been primarily made of ornamental wooden strips, originally gilded to cast candle light into the dark cathedrals or rooms in which they hung. As light reflected off these frames, it appeared as if a “halo of light” surrounded the painting.
“Taking that beautiful imagery into the digital age, I have designed a frame that actually glows.”
“Unlike most conventional frames that merely enhance the work within, my Aural Hexagonal Frames (below) actually interact with the artwork that they surround.
“As the LED lights within the frame change color, the painting shifts in pattern. The frame is no longer secondary to the painting; frame and painting are now one. This unique visual experience is both calming and beautiful, and can only truly be experienced in person.”
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE SERIES IN FULL
The Game Show Series
I’d like to highlight one last collection – Andrew’s exploration of dark Americana in the nature of gameshow prizes. Look deeper, and I think you’ll find a searing indictment of the contemporary art world and the manner in which fine art has been reduced to nothing more than a financial investment by collectors.
This magnificent five piece bedroom set! True American styling, featuring a triple dresser,
mirror, door chest, queen sized bed and night stand, plus high gloss ebony finish
and beautiful brass trim, a prize package worth three thousand dollars!
Oil on Canvas, 33.5″ x 50″
Spend all of your time in this new hot tub! Experience the luxurious sensation
of soothing hydro massage, a prize worth $4,300 dollars.
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 30″
I’ve Got A Good Feeling About This
Oil on Canvas, 40″ x 72″
A romantic trip to Fiji! We’ll fly you and your guest round trip coach from Los Angeles
to native Fiji for a six night stay, a prize worth $6,148 dollars!
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 30″
Thousands of dollars in cash just waiting to be won!
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 36″
A proven luxury car! This brand new 2 door sports car, aerodynamically designed, breezy
handling, luxury and comfort, equipped with manual transmission, standard features
and California emissions plus cruise control.
Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 32″
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE SERIES IN FULL
*****
Make you uncomfortable?
It sure as hell makes me uncomfortable, which is why I find Andrew’s work to be so compelling. Andrew has a way of capturing modern Americana in a way that chills me to the bone, a disturbing visceral reaction I rarely feel when looking at contemporary art.
If you’ve taken the time to experience his work here, please consider sharing your thoughts in the comments below. There’s quite a lot more to be found on his website, AndrewCarr.net (warning – some areas are NSFW). In particular, I would suggest checking out his series on Prom Girls and Frat Parties.
Finally, to contact Andrew regarding representation or commissions, he can be reached at andrewcarr@gmail.com.
-SCOUT
