Review: OLD SCHOOL/NEW SCHOOL at Bodega
by Charles Fox
Bodega’s second exhibition features an infusion of new artwork displayed alongside some pieces that remain from last month’s stellar opening show. Ben Orcutt’s “In a Fragile State” immediately commands attention upon entering the space; it's a pristine fixed gear bicycle with white accents, which, upon closer inspection, reveals itself to be actually made of glass. The piece raises the profile of the fixed gear bicycle from transportation to fine art in a way that raises some interesting questions about its place in contemporary culture.
Also of interest is Jed Buxton’s “Live Olympic Coverage,” a striking print which overlays television microphones belonging to major news outlets from around the world against a background of muted-color rectangles. The Olympian supposedly being interviewed is completely absent. The artist or the viewer could potentially step in to be interviewed, which places artists and gallery-goers in line with athletes in a humorous way. Buxton also has a couple of interesting light box pieces informed by pop art in the exhibition. A healthy serving of Joel Pinkerton’s quirky assemblages were also on display, with new pieces substituted for those exhibited last month.
With OLD SCHOOL/NEW SCHOOL, Bodega continues to meet a high standard; if the space sticks around, it could become an anchor for the Murphy Art Center at a time when one is certainly needed. March 2 at Bodega.
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