Bill Jensen's 'Transgressions' at Cheim & Read Explores Abstract Painting's Evolution

Bill Jensen's exhibition 'Transgressions' at Cheim & Read in New York City ran from April 9 to May 9, 2015, featuring abstract paintings that challenge traditional development in non-figurative art. The show included works like 'Transgressions (Flesh)' (2013), 'Loom of Origins' (2014–15), 'Mountain Tiger-Sky' (2013), 'Angelico, Angelico' (2012–15), and 'Now I believe it peak (Huangshan Mountain)' (2014–15), each displaying diverse influences from African tribal art to Chinese poetry. Jensen, a senior artist, avoided preconceived outcomes, leading to a bold experimental approach that some critics found incoherent yet daring. The gallery's publicity highlighted his inspirations, including Michelangelo's 'The Last Judgment' and Russian films. Nearby, Thomas Nozkowski's exhibition at Pace Gallery offered a contrast with varied but identifiable compositions. The review questions how abstract art can transcend decoration without falling into signature styles, referencing artists like Kandinsky, Mondrian, Jackson Pollock, Frank Stella, Richard Diebenkorn, Robert Mangold, and Kenneth Noland. Jensen's work strives to synthesize disparate elements, earning respect for its ambition despite perceived inconsistencies.