by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
Part of the “Off the Grid” partnership that connects artists and property owners, nullspace opened in January with the intention to present an experience that’s only available Downtown. The new exhibit at the gallery, “Masculine Pictures,” is a collection of new work by Kurt Polkey.
“I went with the idea of what it means to be a man and what does that question even mean,” said Polkey.
The collection is based around a fictional character named “Justin.” Polkey said he studied the style of the masters of classical painting for his inspiration which comes through in the diversity of the images. One of the themes is the dichotomy of masculinity in terms of art. Polkey cited Michaelangelo’s iconic sculpture “David” as an example.
“It’s homoerotic and macho at the same time,” he said.
When asked how the exhibit fits in with the nullspace philosophy of being profoundly different from anything else, Polkey said, “It does and it doesn’t. We usually show installation art and this is more traditional, but the subject matter isn’t.”
He gave as an example the installation that preceded the new exhibit, an homage to the avant-garde movement by artist Matt Allison.
“Some people got two feet in the door and immediately turned around and left. That’s some people’s reaction to avant-garde art,” said Polkey.
While his exhibit is, on the surface, the most conventional to date at the gallery, Polkey said it fits the philosophy.
“You’ll see things here you’ve never seen before and you might not see again unless you buy it and take it home,” he said.
“Masculine Pictures” closes in two weeks and some material has an explicit theme. Polkey said viewer discretion is advised. Nullspace is at 108 E. Adams St. between London Bridge Pub and Poppy Love Smoke. Hours vary. Call 716-4202 for information or appointments.
356-2466