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February 28 - May 20, 2009
On Aggression
Art Exhibition
Works by Joy Garnett, Alexander Gibbons, Joyce Kozloff, Leah Poller, Margaret Roleke, Robin Tewes
at the Center
The aggressive impulse is as ancient and deeply embedded as sexual drive, and the two occasionally go hand in hand. Both act as our most primal means of self-preservation. Like sexuality, aggression is looked upon as taboo in many cultures, even though it is a necessary mechanism for survival and self-expression. But while both impulses can cloud our ability to make rational decisions, aggression alone finds its ultimate articulation in the destruction of human life. From a shove on the subway to murder, war, and genocide, the aggressive impulse defines a spectrum of human behavior that we are often loath to confront.
The exhibition, On Aggression, in conjunction with a series of six roundtables that address the politics and psychobiology of aggression, explores through imagery the roots and ramifications of violence. Joyce Kozloff's collages map the history of military conflict in all of its juvenile pomp, while Margaret Roleke repurposes children's playthings to explore the menace of our cultural mania for rockets, tanks, and jetfighters. Alexander Gibbons's photographs chronicle the aftermath of the genocide in Rwanda, while Joy Garnett's paintings capture the expressive ferocity of emotional release. Leah Poller's sculptures playfully counterpoise imagery of violence and bliss, while Robin Tewes probes the subtle brutality of gender roles.
The exhibition may be viewed M-F from 11:00AM to 5:00PM, and by appointment. Please call 646-422-0544 or email info@philoctetes.org to make arrangements.
Exhibition curated by Hallie Cohen (Chair, Art Department, Marymount Manhattan College), with Adam Ludwig.
Joyce Kozloff, Havana
Robin Tewes, Solitary Confinement
Joy Garnett, Emo
Margaret Roleke, Missiles and More
Leah Poller, Army Bed