Suellen Rocca, a prominent member of the Hairy Who artist group in Chicago, left a lasting impact on the art world with her unique visual language and individual style. Her exhibition at the Matthew Marks Gallery features a range of artworks spanning from 1964 to 2014, showcasing her evolution as an artist throughout her career. Rocca’s use of pictographic elements, inspired by mid-century ads, adds layers of meaning to her compositions, inviting viewers to decipher and interpret her work.
One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is “Untitled” (2020), a four-panel painting that delves into more ominous themes beneath its seemingly benign imagery. Rocca’s incorporation of everyday objects like beds, birds, and houses in her art challenges traditional notions of domesticity and the American Dream. By infusing her work with unexpected elements and juxtapositions, she creates a sense of unease and ambiguity that invites deeper contemplation.
In addition to her enigmatic paintings, Rocca also explores new territories with pieces like “Lamp Poem” (c. 1969), where she uses pleated fabric to create texture and depth. This experimentation showcases her creative breadth and willingness to push boundaries in her art. Through her use of repetition, Rocca creates a sense of rhythm and continuity in her work, drawing viewers into a world that is both familiar and unsettling.
Rocca’s drawings, such as “Hidden Danger Lady” (1984–2012), further exemplify her ability to challenge conventional norms and expectations. By incorporating colored elements and playful gestures, she subverts traditional notions of gender and identity, creating a sense of intrigue and mystery in her art.
Overall, Suellen Rocca’s exhibition at the Matthew Marks Gallery offers a captivating glimpse into the mind of a visionary artist who pushed the boundaries of traditional art forms. Her ability to blend personal narrative with societal commentary makes her work both timeless and thought-provoking. If you’re in the Chelsea area, be sure to check out “Suellen Rocca: Good Things and Bad Things” before it closes on April 19th.
