Mr. Charles Hickey explores new industrial techniques towards fine artistry with his introduction of still life forms with 3D print penmanship with his Bulb and Seed opening at Monta Vista Projects. His fastidious and dangerous attempts successfully extend originality in the fine arts through the comfort of utilizing a technique for polishing or finishing off 3D print jobs. It is from this “base” commercial activity (which is a marvelous technological leap in its own right) where the artist demonstrates artistry in orienting its use towards beauty as an end in itself.

Charles Hickey: Bulb and Seed, Monte Vista Projects August 12 – September 3, 2023. Images courtesy of the artist Charles Hickey. Photo: Julian Calero

And what a panorama of still objects that are able to be not fabricated, but inked, in a way which protrudes the resin with a unique consistency. It is a subtle yet noticeable tactile element to the compositions which provide a healthy appearance of viscosity and therefore weight in the image. Juxtaposed to Dutch Mastery in still life, with its gentle oils and smooth light reflectance which pacify the eye, Mr. Hickey gives us animation through the periodical tracing of his pen on the canvas. With that there is a nobler perspective of vitality to the ends.

Charles Hickey: Bulb and Seed, Monte Vista Projects August 12 – September 3, 2023. Images courtesy of the artist. Photo: Julian Calero

In his greater mastery of his technique, he gives us greater color. He moves with pride from neutral hues – those of the brown bottle jug and dull steel knife – toward ornamentation which flirts with a Van Gogh or Matisse softly-plastic dream ideas; away from the staunch necessity of recreating an accurate appearance of the world seen through the artist’s natural eye. There is much to be gained with the extension of his imagination toward greater daring; perhaps towards a Dali surrealism with original dream-objects?

Charles Hickey: Bulb and Seed, Monte Vista Projects August 12 – September 3, 2023. Images courtesy of the artist. Photo: Julian Calero

Nevertheless, this is a terrific effort and human creativity. A splendid demonstration of the healthy progress in the fine arts.

For more information, please contact the gallery:

Monta Vista Projects

Bendix Building

1206 Maple Avenue, 5th floor, #523
Los Angeles, CA 90015

infomvpmail@gmail.com