Darby Madden Gross
It’s All I Want
In this exhibition, Darby Madden Gross tackles the charged and heavy topic of “American-ness” in his latest series of paintings, It’s All I Want. The works feature iconic and pop imagery: a ceremoniously folded American flag, white Jesus, a baby pink thong, and a burning map, each framed within its own canvas and set atop a vibrant colorfield. As is true to Madden Gross’ style, the application of paint is an interesting juxtaposition of vigorously gestural and considered, composed mark making, culminating in a highly readable image that maintains a buoyantly expressive quality. It’s a fitting visual entry into the loaded iconography Madden Gross depicts. Together, along with a makeshift-style memorial composed of the objects referenced in the paintings, and diaristic writings on notebook paper, the works tell the story of the pervasive and insidious nature of mainstream, mostly white American culture. They hook you in with promises of victory, redemption, salvation, sex, and pride, but what is left in the wake is something much closer to moral desolation.
To learn more about Darby Madden Gross and his work visit:
@darbymaddengross on Instagram
For inquiries regarding the works in It’s All I Want, please visit the artist website or email darbymaddengross@gmail.com
