Jill Downen: Hard Hat Optional A hybrid of supple and severe forms, this installation of pristine plaster shapes and construction-grade pine resembles a studio work in progress or the foundational disarray of a building site. Bright white half-figural shapes sit on freshly assembled crates; two-by-fours bolted into the gallery wall project into the space what could be the initial framework for a ceiling. Sandbags sag, fiberboard leans, molded objects pucker and dimple — dialectics, here, abound: between the body and buildings, order and disorder, the newly made and the softly aged. Standing amid the piece, the viewer is invited into a game of visual volleying of apparently — but perhaps not absolutely — widely suggestive oppositional tensions. Also showing: Chris Rubin de la Borbolla: there was a silent tinfoil rapping against the front door and Brett Williams: Things You Will See. Through May 9 at Bruno David Gallery, 3721 Washington Boulevard; 314-531-3030 or www.brunodavidgallery.com. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed., Sat., the first Sun. of every month and by appointment.
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