James Oliver Gallery is pleased to present Male Gazing, a solo exhibition featuring recent works by artist Matthew Borgen. Please join us for the Opening Reception on Saturday, September 14th, from 6-9pm.
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This body of work appropriates and recontextualizes images from 20th century comic books – in particular depictions of outmoded male stereotypes – in order to take a critical, sardonic look at the emotional and psychological underpinnings of toxic masculinity and white supremacy in our current cultural landscape. These themes are tempered by humor and satire, using a familiar, cartoon aesthetic – typically thought of as harmless. (Those familiar with the work of Honore Daumier, Thomas Nast, or Matt Groening will recognize the strategy.)
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The resulting psychological distance provides an opportunity for the viewer to consider how these feelings can devolve into misogyny, racism, homophobia, jingoism, or a general distrust of the “other” without automatically invalidating the initial emotions themselves or the real world circumstances that elicited them.
The work by no means condones such views or behavior, but rather attempts to clarify their origins, and offers an intentional access point for reflection and discourse.
Borgen utilizes his social position to borrow patriarchal narratives which originally served to manipulate and divert public attention away from injustice. Through subtle alterations and manipulations, he turns these storytelling conventions in on themselves, altering them in a manner that weakens their designated power.
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Why Do You Keep Hitting Yourself, Inkjet print on archival paper
20 x 20", 2024
Flight From the Future, Inkjet print on archival paper
20 x 22 3/4", 2024
A stimulating storyline, the pictures of Male Gazing present a thoughtful commentary during a time of crucial global consciousness. Male Gazing is on view through Saturday, November 2nd.
"Davey Crocketts", Inkjet Print on Archival Paper, 30 x 56"
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