We got reviewed by the Los Angeles Times! Ours was the lead review and Matt’s painting was featured across 4 columns. (Yay Matt!) I feel that the review is mostly positive with the exceptions of the writer’s view toward the title and Alexander’s work. She felt “The art that dare not speak its name.” protested too much in defense of paintings. We of course set out to show the works of these four painters to be superb examples of fine paintings. But, we actually chose the title to have a little fun with the notion that paintings are over the hill, not in the spirit of protest.
As for her review of Alexander’s work, I can say that each individual has their own preferences. I am glad to say that many of our visitors respond positively to Alexander’s work. All four artists have their fans. However, I do take issue with her characterization of Alexander’s work as “overworked and all over the place.” He plays with the perception of space and dimension, using grids, layering, texture, gradation to achieve particular results. To me each of Alexander’s pieces was mindfully constructed to fulfill his vision. Spend time in front of them, and you will discover layers of visual stimulation.
In graphic design you don’t fill up a page with objects when you want to achieve simplicity. The opposite is also true. You can’t show complexity with just one cleanly drawn circle on an otherwise blank page. I imagine there are also different approaches to painting.
Everyone walks away forming their own opinions and that’s that, it’s good for discussions. And this post is based on this newbie’s point of view. 
Anyway, I’d put the whole review here for you to read, but I think it’s only fair to have you head over to Los Angeles Times’ website so that they get the traffic. All this is fantastic publicity for CB1 Gallery! Woohoo!
Alexander Kroll, Untitled, 2010
