Norm Kirby “Red, Blue and Gold” Acrylic on canvas 24”x24” 2019
“If I Can Make it There…” is a solo exhibit of artworks by the artist Norm Kirby, presented by East Third Street Gallery. This is Norm’s first exhibition in New York City. He predominantly displays his work in Jersey City. He works both as an artist and curates shows from his studio/apartment Six Columns, in addition to assisting artist Stanley Casselman in his studio at Mana Contemporary.
Norm Kirby If I Can Make It There…
Opening Reception Friday, May 31, 6-9pm
On view will be a selection of symmetrical pattern paintings and colorful observational ink drawings. Norm is a politically correct graffiti artist located primarily in Jersey City. He is known mostly for his public woven installations. Using chain link fences Norm weaves colored fabric into uplifting images that are experimental and sometimes narrative. Within this show Norm will focus more on his works intended for inside gallery spaces. Many of his paintings are structural, geometrical, and vibrantly colorful, which adds a great dichotomy to his drawings, which are gestural and often observational but also colorful. The variation in medium, style, and way in which norm’s work is displayed makes his work abundant but also very concise. His works, although varied, share a style and temperament that leaves viewers feeling interconnected and involved.
Artist Norm Kirby describes his work; “Line is a central theme in my artwork. Its simplistic beauty allows me to shift from multiple types of work including drawing, wire sculpture, painting, wood burning, glass etching, and fence art. (This is a form of street art where I weave strips of fabric through chain link fences.) Within these different types of art making, you will find works that are figurative, land/cityscapes, abstract, and text based.”
Norm Kirby continues; “Some of my line drawings exist as they are and some are a study for another piece. Drawings are traced to make wire sculptures or glass etchings, they are transferred to make wood burnings, or they are held up for reference while working on a larger scale. I enjoy the process of drawing before making the final piece, but I also enjoy making things with more spontaneity because it allows for ideas to formulate closer to real time.”
@normkirby
