Coney Island's Wonder Wheel: Swingin', Stationary by Philomena Marano
Swingin’, Stationary by Philomena Marano. Cut paper collage. From the exhibition “New York Then and Now” at ACA Galleries through October 10. Extended through October 27, 2009
Last week ACA Galleries hosted a Meet the Artists reception for their current group exhibition celebrating “New York Then and Now.” Coney Island’s legendary attractions provided the inspiration for several works, including painting, sculpture and collage. Artist Philomena Marano, who is known for her bold and colorful cut paper collages of Coney’s amusement rides and signs, talked about her favorite subject matter:
The “Wonder Wheel” ferris wheel is continuously inspiring to me because it has two worlds — the one above, riding the sky and the one below, bathed in rhythmic patterns of light & shadow. Both are at once industrial and enchanted.
In “Swingin’, Stationary,” I hope to evoke not only the visual complexities of linear tension but also the sounds of gears turning, motors humming, and the sonorous chords of cars swinging. All magic. If you’re going to ride it, I suggest the swingin’ car!
The group exhibit “New York Then and Now,” which includes the work of George Ault, Romare Bearden, William Gropper, Reginald Marsh, Faith Ringgold and Herb Rogoff, among others, continues through October 10 27. 2009 ACA Galleries, 529 West 20th St., 5th floor, New York, 212-206-8080.
ATZ enjoys the roller coaster-like thrill of the swinging cars, too. There’s still time to go for a spin on the Wonder Wheel this season– Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park is open weekends and school holidays through Monday, October 12. Weather permitting of course. Call ahead for hours of operation. Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park, 3059 W 12th St, Coney Island, 718- 372-2592.
Related posts on ATZ...
October 26, 2010: Studio Visit: Philomena Marano of the Coney Island Hysterical Society
September 19, 2010: Art of the Day: Play Fascination by Philomena Marano
October 31, 2009: Traveler: Carnival Rides as Public Art at Toronto’s Nuit Blanche
June 13, 2009: June 13: Coney Island Hysterical Society Artists in Conversation at A.M. Richard Fine Art in Williamsburg
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