Marc Swanson: New/Now

Marc Swanson, automythologist: one who excels at crafting sparkling, enigmatic totems from the messiness of his own history. Self-identity, development, conflict, and nostalgia are all re-occurring themes found in the works of the next NEW/NOW artist Marc Swanson. His unique exhibition features a diverse range of mixed media that incorporates photography, sculpture, drawing, collage, video, and installation. Bill Arning, director of the Contemporary Arts Museum in Houston, recognizes Marc Swanson as “the archetypal constructivist for today” whose works illustrate the personal journey of the artist’s psyche through simple form and composure.

Born in New Britain, Connecticut, and now residing in Brooklyn, New York, Marc has re-located to several areas across the country. His continual struggle to find a place secure and comfortable enough to call home can be detected in his artwork.

Marc’s pieces are influenced by the challenge of self-diagnosis and the multiple identities that simultaneously occupy one’s mind. With each installation comes a new discovery in the artist’s personal history. Self-exploration is achieved through his creations. The dueling faces of masculinity expressed by Marc’s stag sculptures acknowledge a common conflict between wrestling identities. These sleek and graceful busts are completely adorned in crystals. The disparities between the two mediums call traditional gender roles into question.

The intimate fusion of self-discovery with exquisite installations allows for a deeper understanding of Marc Swanson’s being.