Stephen Westfall is a renowned artist known for his interest in the possibilities of a skewed grid, influenced by artists like Agnes Martin and Paul Klee. In a 2006 interview, Westfall discussed how his work incorporates elements from diverse sources such as Navajo rugs, Walker Evans, and NASCAR scoreboards. This eclectic mix of influences comes together in his art to create a structure that is both familiar and innovative.
His current exhibition, “Ornithology,” at Alexandre Gallery, explores the relationship between vulnerability, planar abstraction, and the culture of signs and symbols. The title of the exhibition references Charlie Parker, Barnett Newman, and the idea that aesthetics is to artists as ornithology is to birds. The use of triangles in Westfall’s work alludes to abstracted bird beaks, creating a dynamic interplay between form and meaning.
The exhibition features a series of oil and alkyd paintings from 2024 and 2025, as well as gouaches dating back to 2010. One standout piece is the wall mural “Conference of Birds” divided into three sections, each incorporating triangles in different colors and configurations. This juxtaposition creates a sense of rhythm and movement within the space.
Westfall’s exploration of geometric abstraction in works like “Sharp Haze” and “Olivera” showcases his mastery of asymmetry and form. These paintings feature concentric diamonds that dominate the composition, hinting at a sense of continuity beyond the picture plane. The use of static forms and cropped edges adds to the visual intrigue of these pieces.
In more recent works like “JuJu (for Wayne Shorter)” and “Cabana I & II,” Westfall pushes the boundaries of planar abstraction by introducing irregular shapes and unexpected color combinations. The grid-like composition of “JuJu” allows for improvisation with color, creating a dynamic interplay between different hues. This departure from traditional geometric abstraction marks a new phase in Westfall’s artistic evolution.
Overall, “Ornithology” showcases Westfall’s ability to blend diverse influences into a cohesive and innovative body of work. By breaking away from traditional patterns and structures, he invites viewers to engage with his art on a deeper level. The exhibition at Alexandre Gallery is a testament to Westfall’s ongoing exploration of form, color, and composition in the realm of abstract art.
