Barbara Schwartz's Polychrome Wood Reliefs at Andre Zarre Gallery

From January 17 to February 25, 2006, Barbara Schwartz presented abstract polychrome wood relief panels at Andre Zarre Gallery in New York. The exhibition featured two series created between 2003 and 2005: Cut Diamond and Primary Crossing: Portages. Cut Diamond includes thirteen square panels hung diagonally, each composed of numerous shapes cut with a scroll saw and painted with acrylic and flashe, referencing Elizabeth Murray, Sonia Delaunay, and Henri Matisse. Primary Crossing: Portages comprises twenty-five panels using only primary colors, black, and white, arranged in a frieze-like installation with boat shapes and spirals evoking wind and clouds. Schwartz's work marks a return to color after two years of black-and-white art post-9/11, emphasizing play and solace through abstract forms. The show highlights her status as a prominent New York artist, with panels ranging from 15 to 34 inches square in Cut Diamond and 11 by 28 inches in Primary Crossing: Portages. A review originally appeared in Gay City News on February 9-15, 2006.