Taking inspiration from the indigenous art of South America, Max Kauffman's work is folkloric in nature as it tells tales of a mythological world filled with sprawling buildings and abstract landscapes. Made from the stuff of childhood dreams, these fanciful visions simultaneously evoke a sense of wonderment and wild chaos that's extraordinarily inviting. "Aether Ceremony" pushes Kauffman's DIY aesthetic even further as he continues to make the most out of what he has. Each work on paper resonates with soft hues of blue, pink, brown and black that highlight the artist's post-modern shapes. Configurations that Kauffman describes as "Buildings dissolving in and out of time, space and dimensions." In addition to the watercolor and ink pieces are a series of found cans playing upon his signature style. Having to dig the earth in search of these sculptural pieces beckoned to Kauffman's love for anthropology and native cultures while adding a "nice meta-scenario" within his work.
Overall "Aether Ceremony" is a strong and cohesive body of work portraying the realms of both real and imaginary. For those in the Denver area, there's another opportunity to view Kauffman's art in person. Black Book Gallery is holding a closing reception Friday evening, April 4th from 6-9pm.
