Henry Finkelstein's French Countryside Paintings at Kraushaar Galleries Contrast with Nell Blaine's Work

Henry Finkelstein's exhibition at Kraushaar Galleries presents vibrant landscapes depicting the French countryside. The painter, in his mid-40s, employs a bold palette and loose, energetic brushwork to capture atmospheric effects. His works create an intriguing contrast with those of Nell Blaine, displayed a few floors below in the same building. Finkelstein's paintings convincingly render spatial depth through sudden color notes, as seen in "Pond, Gray Day," where a cacophony of hues clusters in the foreground as reflections on water. While less patient than Blaine in lingering over objects, his extravagant strokes effectively convey elements like cloud formations, tree trunks, and shadows. The exhibition includes several watercolors, with "Platform Garden" (1988) noted for its limpid washes and muscular outlines. Drawings round out the show, demonstrating vigorous techniques. Blaine's work, characterized by coherent composition and overlapping colors, explores motifs ranging from rooftops to the Hudson River at sunset. Her best pieces reflect an intense interest in visible surroundings and unaffected virtuosity, echoing Cézanne's pursuit of capturing reality. The show highlights two distinct approaches to painting within the same gallery space.