Danny Moynihan is a versatile artist whose work has evolved over the years, showcasing a diverse range of talents and interests. From his early days as a gallerist and independent curator to his more recent endeavors as a novelist and photographer, Moynihan has always pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. I first encountered his work in the 1980s and was immediately drawn to his unique style and vision. So, when I heard about his latest solo exhibition, “In Praise of Limestone,” at the Nathalie Karg Gallery in New York, I knew I had to see it for myself.
The title of the exhibition, inspired by W. H. Auden’s poem, sets the tone for Moynihan’s paintings, which explore the relationship between human and nonhuman forms within rocky landscapes. Each painting in the exhibition tells a different story, with its own unique character and allegorical elements. One of the standout pieces, “Quarry” (2021–22), pays homage to Paul Cézanne’s Bibémus Quarry, blending dinosaur bones with rough stones to create a striking visual of ambiguity. The juxtaposition of flesh-like textures and scarred surfaces adds layers of meaning to the artwork, inviting viewers to ponder the passage of time and the impermanence of life.
In “Gaia” (2021–22), Moynihan transforms Cézanne’s Mont Saint-Victoire into a volcanic landscape, complete with mysterious orb-like shapes and Cyclopean eyes that seem to gaze back at the observer. The painting evokes a sense of mutual estrangement, highlighting the disconnect between the seen and the unseen, the known and the unknown. Similarly, “Charge” (2021–24) features pig-like creatures engaging in primal activities, juxtaposed with porous limestone formations and staring eyes. The painting raises questions about human nature, greed, and the impact of our actions on the world around us.
Through his reinterpretation of Cézanne’s motifs and exploration of time, flesh, and landscape, Moynihan challenges viewers to confront their own perceptions and assumptions. His paintings are rich in symbolism and open to multiple interpretations, inviting audiences to reflect on the complexities of human existence and our place in the universe. “In Praise of Limestone” is a thought-provoking exhibition that showcases Moynihan’s evolution as an artist and his continued commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
If you’re in New York City, be sure to visit the Nathalie Karg Gallery before December 20th to experience Danny Moynihan’s captivating exhibition in person. It’s a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the enigmatic world of one of today’s most intriguing contemporary artists.
