Things we experience in childhood have such a powerful impact on the people we become. They are the memories, good and bad, which come back to us again and again. Ontario artist Casey McGlynn’s work recalls recurring symbols from his childhood and life, symbols that many of our own lives share.
How 2 Do Snake Graffiti on Water Tower, mixed media on canvas, 36×36 ( via Foster/White Gallery )
I first saw Casey’s work at Foster/ White in Seattle, where he was exhibiting alongside Rachel Denny. His work is striking from afar, but the elements in each work are what really drew me in and caused me to closely examine each one.
We Thought We Were Going to Space, mixed media on canvas, 42×48 ( via Bau-Xi Gallery, Vancouver )
His canvases are filled with symbols of formative memories and experiences throughout his life. You’ll see repeating pictographs recalling influences and events– like the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion and blues musician Robert Johnson, along with even more personal memories like the artist’s pregnant wife.
20 Lucky Horses, mixed media on canvas, 60×48 ( via Bau-Xi Gallery )
The work is autobiographical, but remains accessible and universally appealing. I found myself pouring over the canvases and thinking– “Yes! I remember where I was when the shuttle went down.. yes! I know what it’s like to gather coins for the laundromat.
Bird Found, mixed media on canvas, 48×48 ( via Foster/White Gallery )
Coin Laundry, mixed media on canvas, 48×40 ( via Bau-Xi Gallery )
His primitive drawing style adds to the power of these visual memories, works created by the child within the man acknowledging where he’s been and how he arrived at where he is. To see more of Casey McGlynn’s work, please visit his Facebook page and his representing galleries, Foster/ White in Seattle, Bau-Xi Gallery in Vancouver, BC and Artistic Spirit Gallery in Charleston, SC.
Featured image is Coin Laundry, mixed media on canvas, 48×40. All images are via the artist’s representing galleries, linked above.
Impower You
May 8, 2012 at 6:53 AMI love the last one. I don’t often like this style of painting because it can look too messy for my tastes. I love the colors though and the diversity. It’s like a child’s toy box.
Lesley
May 8, 2012 at 9:29 AMI love your analogy! I think that’s what I appreciate most about Casey’s work– they feel childlike and playful, but it is like a child’s world seen through adult eyes.
Impower You
May 8, 2012 at 9:48 PMThanks. Your is a god description as well. My child eyes love it. 🙂
Brian Filipowich
May 18, 2012 at 11:51 AMi like these a lot
Lesley
May 18, 2012 at 12:12 PMGlad you enjoyed Casey’s work, Brian!