In the late seventies Zolla/Lieberman pulled the scene away from Michigan Ave, pioneering new gallery district in Chicago. The gallery focuses on a decidedly contemporary aesthetic produced by a wide range of genres and artists. Sculpture, prints, paintings, drawing and photography are the most common mediums exhibited. Unlike a fair amount of contemporary art, the work in this gallery is not detached from human experience or emotion. For every abstract Joon Soo Kim ball of intertwined copper, wire, cloth and wood, there is a recognizable image like Stephanie Knowles' "Fade," an arresting image of an embracing couple.
Artists who have shown here include sculptor John Buck, David Lozano (whose past show, "A Crush of Veils and Glimmers," showcased panels covered in acrylic, resin, sequins and glue) and painter Donald McFadyen. Just as any noise sounds loudest against a backdrop of silence, so the artwork on display at Zolla Lieberman benefits from the smooth, uninterrupted whiteness of the space. The gallery staff believes strongly in personal attention, so both seasoned and novice art collectors can expect expert guidance in the selection process.
Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Berg