Trouble in Paradise
Originally curated for the Van Brunt Gallery in New York City in May 2004, Trouble in Paradise explores the implications of loss in the natural world using a variety of artworks and sensibilities.
Detail of “Red Tank Oil Painting” by Fariba Hajamadi
Here in the United States we are currently witnessing a broad scale effort to unravel decades of hard won environmental legislation and protections. This effort is an attempt to undermine policies that have been in place, having been built slowly but steadily over the past four decades. The beginning of this up hill battle can be traced to Pennsylvania born author Rachel Carson’s 1962 book “Silent Spring”. Challenging in its time, this book brought wide public attention to the devastating effects of pollution and contamination of our water and land. Today, those in positions of power reveal their state of denial concerning global warming, extinction of species, and health issues relating to different types of pollution. If the situation does not change quickly, degradation of the environment will take a terrible toll into the unforeseeable future.
Detail of “Jog” by Joy Garnett
We live with this and many other deeply disturbing issues related to loss and they influence our lives in subtle and profound ways. The reality of ongoing loss on such a grand scale can cause feelings of despair. With the barrage of daily information via the media and Internet, we may feel hopeless and ineffectual at our lack of ability to do anything as individuals.
Issues related to the land have been addressed in contemporary art in various ways since the 1960’s. Art, as it always has, can help us reconnect our senses to the beauty of the natural world and can provide an alternative vision. My goal for this exhibition was to contrast artworks depicting the splendor and beauty that are diminishing on our planet with the grim reality of what is being lost. My hope is to bring awareness to the viewer of the need for protection, preservation and the preciousness of what remains.
Ultimately we need to feel hopeful regarding our future if we are to help bring about a livable future for generations to come. Trouble in Paradise presents a strong case for the results of the alternative should we remain silent.
Amy Lipton
Curator
Detail of “Prairie” by Alexis Rockman
Detail of “Nickel Tailings” by Edward Burtynsky
