Ion Studio presents: Once Upon a Graffiti by Helene Mukhtar December 3, 2009

Ion Studio presents: Once Upon a Graffiti by Helene Mukhtar
December 3rd 2009 to January 5th 2010
Opening reception, Thursday, December 3rd, from 7PM to 9PM
Ion Studio, 41 Wooster Street, Soho, New York, NY 10013
For more information call Natia Dune 212 343 9060

Continuing on her exploration of the graffiti idiom, Helene Mukhtar presents her latest mixed media paintings based on photographs of graffiti she took in New York, Paris and Berlin.

These elements, collaged onto the canvas and sometimes combined with photographs of architectural details, become the basis of her creative exploration. They form an abstract urban landscape around which she develops her narrative. Reflecting on events in Gaza, Iran or war in general, the artist works with acrylic paint and magic markers to create compelling, sometimes humorous, complex images, enriched with bright, muscular colors.

The collage elements are like a puzzle, says Mukhtar about her work process, it is up to me to integrate them into a harmonious visual statement. I proceed through trial and error. It becomes an obsession and I do not stop until I have achieved my goal.

Helene Mukhtar received her MFA from Florida State University. Her work has been exhibited throughout the United States and France. Recent exhibitions include the Agora Gallery, Icosahedron Gallery, Art Gotham, the National Arts Club in New York City, and solo shows at 440 Gallery in Brooklyn and Galerie ArtSud in Toulouse, France.

To preview Helene Mukhtar’s work, visit the artist’s website at www.helenemukhtar.com