Peter Gourfain
"Sculpture & Works on Paper "
November 2 - December 29th, 2007 Projects Gallery

Peter Gourfain first came into national acclaim in the 1960’s as a member of the New York minimalist art movement. As Gourfain’s individual artistic expression evolved, he became known for his terracotta, bronzes and relief carvings on wooden objects. These sculptural pieces soon became his trademark, reflecting not only an artistic ability but also an attention to detail that is seldom seen in the art world today. His prints and drawings demonstrate the same level of dimensionality and exemplify the style, skill, poignancy and humor for which he is celebrated. 

The artist’s works serve as a conduit for his wry observations. His perspicacity is significant in his image making, often interspersing literary references, religion and current affairs with the whimsical. As he stated in an interview with Chazen (formerly Elvehjem) Museum of Art Director, Russell Panczenko, “It’s all the stuff that occurs to you in a day, a week, or a year, what has remained indelible from day to day.” Often politically and socially motivated, as well as employing a strong sense of dry humor and whit, Gourfain’s pieces entertain yet challenge his audience.

A Chicago native and graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, this New York-based artist has had an impressive number of solo and group exhibitions throughout the United States. His works are in many private and public collections, including New York’s Museum of Arts and Design, Museum of Modern Art, Guggenheim Museum and the Brooklyn Museum. Previous shows have focused either on Gourfain the sculptor or Gourfain the printmaker. Sculpture & Works on Paper will be a unique compilation showcasing all aspects of Peter Gourfain the artist. In this second solo show with Projects Gallery, the artist shares with us a rare collection of his work. Included is a new series of eight linoleum block prints inspired by the story of the German peace activist Sophie Scholl. This suite of prints is a fitting homage to the life and bravery of this incredible woman. Seldom exhibited drawings and several newly commissioned bronzes will also be displayed, alongside larger woodcarvings and additional prints. Sculpture and Works on Paper is an unprecedented opportunity to witness the breadth of Gourfain’s talent.

Peter Gourfain
"What Folly . . . "
December 2, 2005 - January 29, 2006 Projects Gallery & Projects Room

Peter Gourfain is a master printmaker, carver and sculptor.  Projects Gallery is highlighting a selection of his prints in this solo exhibition.  Using powerful images that are often politically motivated and socially poignant, this New York-based artist creates insightful, thought-provoking works from wood and linoleum blocks.  Utilizing a palette of mainly black and white, with an occasional nod to color, Gourfain often employs a sense of humor and dry whit to simultaneously entertain and challenge his audience. A Chicago native and graduate of the Art Institute of Chicago, the artist has had an impressive number of solo and group exhibitions throughout the United States. Most notably, he has had solo exhibitions at the Brooklyn Museum of Art in New York and the Elvehjem Museum of Art in Madison, Wisconsin.  His works are in many private and public collections, including the Museum of Arts and Design, the Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, as well as the Brooklyn Museum.