iCandy, artwork by Dan Fenelon, opens Sept. 28 in Gallery at 14 Maple

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On September 28, 2017 from 6-8pm,  nearly 90 people joined Morris Arts at the  free opening reception for the Gallery at 14 Maple’s eighteenth exhibit entitled  icandy . The Exhibition Committee of Morris Arts and the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation selected 28 works created between 2009 and 2017 by Morristown artist Dan Fenelon (paintings, mixed media, prints on wood and sculpture) for display at the Gallery, a distinctive space located on the 3rd floor of the LEED certified “green” building at 14 Maple Ave., Morristown.

Fenelon’s dramatic imagery references ancient tribal petroglyphs and reflects his study of and interest in mythology, art history and early civilizations. His unique, highly recognizable visual language has developed over years of constant sketching, drawing and painting (on surfaces large and small). No viewer can forget his intricate designs, the shapes within shapes, the fantastical creatures, or his vibrant colors – ranging from intense “pop culture” hues, to the bold red/black and white combinations or the subtle grey/black/ white blends. Fenelon’s distinctive images are infused with energy and often combine the lighthearted with deeply meaningful expressions, always encouraging that “closer look.” Perhaps most striking is Fenelon’s ability to simultaneously work across a wide stylistic range utilizing ever-evolving media, from canvas to surfboards to 3D printed objects – and to do so with artistic integrity and skill.

Montclair Art Museum Director Lora Urbanelli said; “Dan approaches his canvas intent on capturing a deep and serious cultural spirit.In the synthesis, myth and symbol are processed through a graphic filter that combines depth of meaning with a lighthearted and dazzling presentation. The result is both youthful and mature, thought-provoking and downright fun!” Speaking of his work, Fenelon stated, “My work is a response to the dissatisfaction in the world today. I have seen firsthand how art can transform people, places and neighborhoods. My goal is to create art that inspires and uplifts.”

Read more, see additional photos from the opening in Kevin Coughlin’s article on MorristownGreen.com.

Here are some PHOTOs from the Opening Reception:

Fenelon trained at the Arts Student League in NY and the Museum School of Fine Arts in Boston. He has had seventeen one man shows in galleries from Chelsea (NYC) to Los Angeles (CA) and has produced giant public artworks in and around New Jersey as well as a featured mural exhibit at the Montclair Art Museum. He has a unique ability to inspire people of all ages, engaging them in the creation of a large portfolio of public art murals and sculptures and attracting such clients as Major League Baseball, the Montclair Art Museum, Atlantic Health, and the municipalities of Orange (NJ), Newark (NJ), and Grand Rapids (MI). Fenelon’s works hang in private collections, corporate offices and galleries while his murals in urban neighborhoods throughout the tristate area have enabled him to share his artistic gifts with populations as diverse as his artwork. He is also well known for his school residency programs and as the artist/operator of the Montclair Art Museum Art Truck which has involved the creative participation of thousands of people in the NY metro area.

Morris Arts gratefully acknowledges sponsorship for this exhibit by  

with partnership from 

 

 

and additional support from

 

 

 

 

 

The exhibit is open to the public Monday-Friday from 10am to 4pm and by appointment, and will remain on display until February 15, 2018 .  Visit www.morrisarts.org or call (973) 285-5115 for additional information, including the exhibit catalogue which contains details and sale prices for all works. The Gallery at 14 Maple is a barrier-free facility. Individuals needing special accommodation should contact Kadie Dempsey at (973) 285-5115, x 17 or kdempsey@morrisarts.org.