Walker Fine Art in New York City is presenting a dynamic group exhibition, “M.C. Escher and Contemporary Masters,” bringing together the iconic artist’s work with contemporary practitioners. The exhibition showcases an impressive range of works by M.C. Escher—a specialty Walker Fine Art has cultivated and maintained—as well as pieces by four modern artists.
Installation view of “M.C. Escher and Contemporary Masters” (2024). Courtesy of Walker Fine Art, New York.
First among these is Audrey Keeperman (b. 1961), recognized for her technicolor paintings that draw inspiration from artists such as Roberto Matta and Helen Frankenthaler, as well as elements of Abstract Expressionism. Also included is work by Donato Giancola (b. 1967), whose practice frequently engages with the modern genres of science fiction and fantasy, which he approaches through classical techniques. His work has appeared on numerous media covers—from books to games—and he won the prestigious Hugo Award for Best Professional Artist in 2006, 2007, and 2009. Pieces by the anonymous street artist known as stikman are also featured. He is best known for his signature stick-figure robot motifs that have appeared in urban landscapes across the United States, which he has produced since the 1990s. Rounding out the featured artists is Ernest Trova (1927–2009), a self-taught artist most well-known for his series “The Falling Man.” Interestingly, in his practice he considered his oeuvre part of one singular work in progress.
Installation view of “M.C. Escher and Contemporary Masters” (2024). Courtesy of Walker Fine Art, New York.
M.C. Escher (1898–1971) is arguably the highlight of the show, as the Dutch graphic artist’s work has captured minds and imaginations for decades—both in and outside of the art world. Tapping the creative and artistic possibilities of mathematics, his intricate and often dizzying compositions inspire careful looking, as well as reflection on perceived reality.
Installation view of “M.C. Escher and Contemporary Masters” (2024). Courtesy of Walker Fine Art, New York.
The juxtaposition of M.C. Escher’s iconic work with the work of four contemporary artists within the show highlights the achievements of each respectively. In the case of M.C. Escher, though the artist did not receive the critical reception befitting his practice for much of his career, today his distinctive aesthetic and compositional approach is known worldwide and made him a household name. And for the other artists shown, the growing recognizability and strength of creative vision too marks their solidifying presence within the art world landscape.
Together, the works on view at Walker Fine Art offer visitors a unique opportunity to both explore favorite pieces known to them as well as discover something new.
“M.C. Escher and Contemporary Masters” is on view at Walker Fine Art, New York, May 1–June 6, 2024.