The Woodlands Arts Council Kicks Off 2025 with 'The Poetry of Gravity'

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Woodlands Arts Council (TWAC) is proud to announce its first event of the year, “The Poetry of Gravity,” a solo exhibition of the work of artist Martin Amorous. This thought-provoking exhibition will be displayed from January 7 to March 6, 2025, at TWAC’s exhibition space. An Opening Reception will take place on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, inviting the public to meet the artist and explore his captivating creations.

The collection features large-scale paintings and small works on paper that blend organic forms with geometric precision. Amorous’ unflinching black-and-white lines and drips suggest a vast landscape while incorporating subtle interventions from the artificial world. His monochromatic works capture light and shadow, evoking a post-apocalyptic landscape where nature and artificial elements coexist in a delicate balance.

“As we celebrate TWAC’s 20th anniversary, we are excited to continue bringing our community a diverse variety of art experiences and exhibitions,” shares Jenny Carattini-Wright, Executive Director and CEO of TWAC. “The Poetry of Gravity” highlights our vision of Making Art Matter by presenting innovative and inspiring works to our audiences.”

The exhibition’s title encompasses Amorous themes and techniques. “Gravity acts on the liquid I use—ink and oil paint—to create the tone and shapes on the canvas. My manipulation of both gravity and paint creates the illusion the viewer sees. Poetry is the opposite of narrative. Gravity is the opposite of levity," he explains.

Rendered in oil paint, ink, linseed oil, and enamel, Amorous’ works juxtapose organic forms with geometric precision, creating a balance between nature and culture, shelter and exposure, light and shadow. “I keep working on the painting until I'm satisfied with the illusion both visually and mentally,” Amorous explains. “The first ‘paint spill’ suggests the next, and so on. The natural elements in the work are made by gravity and liquid mediums— ‘untouched by human hands’— while the cultural elements are shaped with masking tape and pinstriping tools. The juxtaposition of organic and geometric shapes creates visual interest and records all the choices made along the way."

Curator Annette Palmer highlights the elegance of Amorous's work: “These monochromatic pieces explore nature’s contrasts, light and shadow, day and night. Leafless, skeletal trees in stark winter landscapes show us the sophistication of nature's bare bones—poetic, simplistic, and beautifully minimal.”

About the Artist
Martin Amorous’ career spans over 25 years, during which he significantly shaped the Department of Art at Sam Houston State University. Now retired, Amorous devotes his time to creating works highlighting the interplay between gravity and human intervention, a recurring theme in his art. He holds a BFA in Painting and Art History, an MA in Painting from the University of New Mexico, and an MFA in Painting from the University of Arizona. He currently resides in Willis, TX, with his wife, artist Cynthia Reid.

Opening Reception and Meet the Artist:
January 14, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
TWAC Exhibition Space
9450 Grogans Mill Rd., Ste. 160
The Woodlands, TX 77380

Click here for directions: https://www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org/directions.aspx

RSVP is encouraged: https://www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org/events/2024/opening-reception-the-poetry-of-gravity

Exhibition Dates/Hours:
January 7 – March 6, 2025
Tuesdays – Thursdays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

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