BSD Butcher Shop Dogmatic presents Clint Bargers & Tim Ridlen CLOSING RECEPTION June 17, 2006

As long as grass grows and water runs
New work by Clint Bargers and Tim Ridlen
Closing reception Saturday June 17th 6-10pm

BSD Butcher Shop Dogmatic
1319 W. Lake St., 3rd Floor
Chicago, Illinois 60607

The landscape finds its definitive characteristics, not in the
physical but in the imaginary. One result of westward expansion in
American history is the rise of an imagined landscape, or a utopian
space. Individuals visualize these utopian spaces via the excesses of
culture. Together the works of Clint Bargers and Tim Ridlen address
issues surrounding individualism, cultural excess, history, and
landscape.

Clint Bargers' sculptures are colored with the vocabulary of the
low-life and the drifter, the post-industrial generation?s
contemporary America. By combining a wide range of media, his work
illustrates an introspective, schizophrenic mythology that parallels
larger socio-political issues.

Tim Ridlen's photographs and videos attempt to assert control over a
reality built on memories and movies. Operating behind and in front
of the camera, the protagonist struggles against failure, isolation,
and physical space to articulate an intimate yet violent relationship
with actuality. Side by side, they sort out history, geography, and
culture to re-imagine the American landscape.

The contemporary notion of the American landscape is mythic and not
so easily defined by its physical boundaries as it is by its
imaginary borders. The works of Bargers and Ridlen attempt to
dismantle the conceit of the American myth of westward expansion that
is the advent of this imaginary landscape. By isolating the
individualism, history, and geography that?s at the core of this
utopian space, they sort through the excess of culture to re-imagine
the American landscape as a multiplicity of form and context.

We are open to the public on Saturdays from noon until 6pm or by appointment
to make an appointment please call 312.375.7757
or write butchershopdogmatic@msn.com
Michael S. Thomas, Director

BSD Butcher Shop Dogmatic Chicago Art Gallery
As long as grass grows and water runs
New work by Clint Bargers and Tim Ridlen

Official Website: http://www.dogmaticchicago.com/exhibition.asp?showid=147