VIEW – September 19-25, 2002
by John Deal
Presented at the Transit Gallery is an exhibition of Robert Creighton’s recent prints, each of which addresses the conditions of being human. Moving from one to the next, different scenarios present a background for Creighton’s figures to expose themselves. These figures represent a side of humanity without the weight of technology to impose upon them. These characters struggle with identity, social dilemmas, psyche and otherwise surreal situations. Occupied by their circumstances, these figures bend unnaturally, stretched out by Creighton’s stylus. This expressive motion on behalf of the artist further informs the aura of the work and leads us deeper into the roles played by the figures.
Creighton’s expressive use of printmaking challenges us to reflect upon our own frailties and capabilities. Printmaking is seen to have become an outmoded form of commercial production in this modern age, yet is still a vast realm for artists to create.
Fittingly, Creighton’s talented prints encourage a dialogue about human symptoms despite the age. Whether his figures are crouched nude upon a miniature chariot propelled downhill holding an umbrella or exposed to their own situations, Creighton’s use of symbols, composition and his expert understanding of the human form offers a vision of a world where all are naked in their struggle with mortality.
Creighton’s expressive style allows each viewer the opportunity to reflect upon the human psyche and the unwritten language of life. Questioning what it means to live as a human in these modern times, Creighton is able to draw out the face from behind the mask. As part of his creative process, Creighton often meditates upon thoughts and forms. He is often spurned on to creation by a string of words that, during contemplation, floods the mind with visions, circumstances, emotions and inevitably, manifests itself in his work.
These intensely reflective and thought provoking works may seem daunting at first due to their veracity but, they certainly serve to enlighten and delight those interested in stepping into them.
Creighton has been working in the arts for nearly 30 years and teaching in the area for many of those years. We are fortunate that he once again provides us with another series of work that illuminates areas of our lives rarely touched by the daily grind.