I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Garbani at Box Heart during the artist reception for her solo, 24 Hours in the Subway. We had a few moments to discuss what we like best about working with pastels.
Her group of subway inspired works are really beautiful, offering a recording of a moment's contemplation pulled from the hectic energy of daily commuting. The works are elegantly simple in their softness and abbreviated palette. The strong contrast between decaying sooty darks, and the shallow yellow of fluorescent light emphasize the rhythm of the cars as well as the structure of the subway environment.
For all of their elegance, the works impart a sense of isolation. There are no people, and the only indication of human intrusion is the occasional suggestion of scrawled graffiti.
I did notice that Ms. Garbani chose a very substantial paper, with deckling intact, for the subway series. The square format is a difficult one to work with, and Ms. Garbani answers this challenge with aplomb.
The works are available for viewing through August 13, but you can preview the exhibit on Box Heart's site.
July 19 - August 13, 2011
24 Hours in the Subway
Pastels by New York Artist: Isabelle Garbani
Box Heart
Gallery Hours:
Tuesdays: 11 AM - 6 PM
Wednesdays - Saturday: 10 AM - 6 PM
Sunday: 1 PM - 5 PM
4523 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
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