Figures of Action

Portraitists often try to capture new perspectives on iconic subjects, as if the public’s impression needs to be subverted lest it take over the legacy. Brett Cook doesn’t do that. He celebrates. The work in “Supernatural” draws heavily from his interest and roots in graffiti and street murals — Martin Luther King Jr., Cesar Chavez, and others look beatific; they were created at collaborative art events of years past. But Cook doesn’t stop there. He drapes the images with objects as varied as brooms, medicinal plants, photographs, and colored lights, creating a mix of street/educational/historical altars, ramshackle yet formal, icons to stand before and be awed, humbled, and inspired. He also creates works on mirror, your reflection as clear as his message: You’re part of all this, don’t let yourself down.

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More About

• Brett Cook
• Martin Luther King Jr.
• Cesar Chavez
• Visual Arts
• Arts, Entertainment, and Media

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An opening reception for “Supernatural” starts at 3 p.m.
June 5-3, 2010