MichaelCGrossOMA Home

Oceanside Museum of Art as curator / exhibitor
 


By The Sea
Curated by MCG



A photographic view of life with, under and by the water’s edge.
for whatever we lose (like a you or a me)
it’s always ourselves we find in the sea

e. e. cummings

The Oceanside Museum of Art’s first photographic exhibition explores life by the sea. Emerging from the foam and developing into a society, the profound relationship between man and the sea that was once confined to food and commerce has become spiritual, recreational, as well as commercial.

This exhibition offers us the chance to witness the beauty, mystery and magic of the sea through the eyes of these fine photographers, who--- like many of us--- live, work, play, and often obtain their inspirations from the water.

Joel Meyerowitz’ internationally famous color images capture the unique beauty of that point where the sea meets the sky. Norman Mailer describes Meyerowitz’ work as “an ongoing quest for the instant when nature can reveal itself through mood, light, mist, or the endless vortices of water in its dialogue with sand”.

Lee Peterson explores life, light, and ingenious abstractions beneath the surface rarely photographed in black and white. As Lee sees it, “The textures and shapes are plentiful and the contrast and range of light can’t be found on dry land”.

The Museum of Photographic Arts
has provided images from their permanent collection. From Coney Island to Muscle Beach, from Atlantic City to Santa Monica, this group reflects the work of photographers from both coasts (focusing on San Diego) all of whom include the particular attitude and lifestyle of those of us who prefer---
no, need--- to be at water’s edge.




  The Oceanside Museum of Art
 


Smile
Curated by MCG



Art is often seen as a source of illumination, of visual and mental stimulation and contemplation, taking the viewer to new heights of understanding, revelation, and even transcendence. But this collection has one goal: to make you smile.

Michael C Gross
Curator








The Oceanside Museum of Art  
 

Out of Oceanside

Three distinguished artists who have studios in downtown Oceanside, but have exhibited throughout the United States and abroad. Each of the three artists in Out of Oceanside: Aitchison, Gross & Tysinger, have a unique and definable style, due, in part, to their preferred medium, but also because their work reflects mature lives that have enjoyed creative careers and extensive travels. If there is a common thread that binds James Aitchison, Michael Gross and Burton Tysinger it is the bold and dramatic impact of their artwork that characterizes their personalities. Understatement is not their way.

James Aitchison’s lyrical, figurative paintings emerge from his imagination with humor and contemplation often fused with autobiographical references.

From one corner of his brain, Michael Gross gives us a frenzied glimpse of “show biz” and from the other corner, the serenity of the African bush. His strong linear marks let the viewer carry the atmosphere on beyond the frame. He refers to his subjects (Africa and Hollywood) as "spiritual polar opposites"

Burton Tysinger builds. A single line element multiplies until the structure bursts with intensity. The combination of design and color completes the mood.

Beth Smith
Curator


More about the exhibit here







   
  2005 / at OMA