Kristian Adam and Mike Kammerer

A weekly shot of art in Vancouver.

While researching the art for "Kore: Distortions of Anatomy and Environment", I was completely focused on the "kore" part of the title and somehow missed the corporeal refences, thinking there would be subtle celestial references to Persephone scattered about. That'll teach me to be clever about art, because Kristian Adam's work is undoubtably grounded in the body.

One thing I was right about though, was the ability of these pieces to simultaneously lure and repel. Figures traipse through fantastic landscapes daring you to follow them on their journies. But with names like "Butterfly Genome" and "Capillary Gates", those paths may be closer to our own selves than realized at first glance.

I like this focus on the physical. It reminds me of The Melancholy of Anatomy by Shelley Jackson, or Linda Findlay's giant representations of viruses. And guest artist Mike Kammerer fits right in with delicate sculptures that look for all the world like twisted up rib cages.

The show is hosted by the Ayden Gallery, but held at the art + soul gallery until Feb.15th. If you fancy having a beer while art-gazing, or just can't get enough of this guy, Kristian Adam is also having another show at the Yaletown Brewing Company (1111 Mainland St., Vancouver) starting January 23rd at 9 PM.

Image is a painting of Kristian Adam's (The Kite String) taken through a sculpture of Mike Kammerer's, just because I felt like being fancy.

the art and Soul gallery
1277 Robson Street (at the Pacific Palisades Hotel)
778-891-4310