19 Oct 2012

Jeffrey Maron: Devotion at Affirmation Arts

Affirmation Arts is pleased to present Jeffrey Maron: Devotion, a retrospective of Maron's sculptural work that spans 16 years (1976—2012). The exhibition, which opens with a cocktail reception on October 11, comprises 34 unique works of copper alloy and other materials. Devotion marks the gallery's premier solo sculptural exhibition.

Jeffrey Maron's work is self-described as 'contemporary animism,' drawing on spiritual experiences to transform metals and other materials into works of art. His creative process comprises mind, body and spirit, producing pieces that have their own intrinsic energy and animistic themes. Maron's work is characterized by paradoxes; it is tough and beautiful, religious and sensual, reminiscent of familiar symbols, yet unique.

Maron states, 'The activities of my hands are transformative to the materials involved in the creation of my art. My hands know how to change an image or form, into something more than just the reformed material. This necessitates the metamorphosis of the material with a specific energy and intent. This process is difficult to delegate to others. It imbues a unique character to the art that allows it to speak to the viewer's heart without the need for subsequent explanation.'

After receiving his M.F.A. at Washington University in 1973, Maron went on to win numerous awards including three grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a Pollock-Krasner Foundation Award, and a two-year Fulbright-Hayes Grant for sculpture that allowed him to live and work in Japan where he continued to be influenced by cultures of the world dedicated to animism. Maron's work can be found in many corporate, public and private collections. The artist lives and works in New York City.

Affirmation Arts is an institution comprising an art gallery and studios that provides an anchor to the up-and-coming arts neighborhood on the west side of Manhattan. The gallery offers temporary exhibition space for curators, galleries, artists, and in-house shows. For more information about Affirmation Arts, please visit www.affirmationarts.com.