Written by Michael Goldstein for THE ARTISTS FORUM MAGAZINE
Edited by Amos White V for THE ARTISTS FORUM, INC
Art Images: Courtesy of Mel Ramos
Gallery Photo: Michael Goldstein
REVIEWER RATING:
5 out of 5 stars
MEL RAMOS – THE LOST PAINTINGS OF 1962: A LOOK BACK AT POP!
NEW YORK, NY (May 10, 2016) The Bernarducci Meisel Gallery turned into an old-fashioned comic books store recently when it unveiled its latest exhibition of “pop art” oil paintings by the hand of legendary pop artist Mel Ramos. Mel Ramos – The Lost Paintings of 1962: A Look Back at POP! explores his fascination with comic book heroes and heroines from a variety of sources, such as Marvel Comics and Fiction House. Heroes from both DC and Marvel are represented as well, which would make this exhibition a rare occasion Marvel and DC have been in the same room and nothing exploded into a rivalry.
Featuring bright colors rendered in a retro-like style, the 12, large paintings on display harken back to the retro-style of comic books originating around the 1940s. The paintings have done well to replicate the golden age— familiar heroes such as Captain America and Captain Marvel are portrayed beaming with personality alongside lesser-known heroes such as the Blonde Phantom and Sheena; the latter famous for being the first female comic book character with her own title.
Ramos also does well when it comes to visualizing body types on the canvas. He has given impressive detail to each hero and heroine’s muscularity wherever it applies. Massive biceps and slim legs are all presented in a neutral way and neither is placed above the other, making for a pretty equal environment as each character is displayed in action. There is no stated priority, rather just a wave of nostalgia the paintings generate to its viewers.
For more information about Bernarducci Meisel Gallery, visit: bernarduccigallery.com
For more information about Mel Ramos, visit: melramos.com
