10.15.12 Colette Robbins

This body of work, “Archaeological Fiction,” includes two different series. One series consists of large graphite paintings that depict intricately textured double-faced monolithic structures in rocky sea-worn landscapes. The second series contains a group of paintings of buried heads that are seen from above or from underground and are partially concealed from view by elaborately rendered dirt, sand, or ashes. Both series create fictitious landscapes that evoke the mysterious connection between the heads and their environment. The work asks us to reflect upon what vestiges of our own relationships will endure beyond our existence on earth. The products of industry and culture are often left behind, and monuments to individuals often survive. Our relationships, which are so important to the fabric of our society and everyday lives, are rarely monumentalized and are quickly forgotten. The paintings reference past cultural relics and sublime archaeological sites.

Colette Robbins received her MFA from Parsons, the New School for Design and her BFA from Maryland Institute College of Art. Her work has been exhibited in both the United States and abroad. Recent exhibitions include: “Earth Works: Ten Artists on Land and Industry,”P.P.O.W. Gallery, New York City (2012), “Portrait of a Generation,” The Hole, New York City (2012), “We Have Relocated to a New Location,” Picture Farm, New York City (2012), and “Fine Line,” Workshop Gallery, Venice, Italy (2012). Colette Robbins currently lives and works in Queens, NY.

Artist website: coletterobbins.com