CEDAR CITY, UT.- Southern Utah Museum of Art, on the campus of Southern Utah University, is presenting a solo exhibition featuring the work of Stewart Seidman in Observations: People and Stories Visualized by Stewart Seidman, through Saturday, July 10.
When exploring Observations, visitors will find that people are at the forefront of Seidman’s work. There are more than 70 stories found through his paintings and accompanying object labels, which were written by Seidman. Those stories revolve around the human condition from politics to music to cultural icons most will recognize. It is all there, waiting for visitors to contemplate and create conversation.
"My work is more of a ‘journalist social commentary' of what I see, hear, observe, and think is important to portray," Seidman explained of his body of work. "Whether it’s a place, an event (current or historic), a national figure, sports, politics, music, art, or literature, these are topics that enter my studio and influence my painterly decisions."
A self-taught, New York-born artist, Seidman had a passion for art from a young age. Drawing famous athletes for his friends in Brooklyn was a common pastime in his youth. Soon that artistic talent and passion led him toward a career in advertising. While Seidman honed his imaginative skills and creative eye during his tenures as both an artistic director and creative director, it wasn't until much later that he would transition that creativity and imagination into the pursuit of painting. After retirement, and relocation to St. George, Utah, he began to fully explore acrylic paint. That medium quickly became his primary form of expression.
Working primarily in acrylic paints, Seidman finds inspiration from a compelling story. Next, he puts brush to canvas, or recycled FedEx envelopes, and thoroughly explores each surface, each color, and each topic as fully as he can. In each work of art, Seidman attempts to add to the narrative. The art is emotional, imaginative, energetic, and above all, filled with artistic passion. Each piece, which is typically painted quickly, is both a striking and vibrant storytelling experience.
On display, visitors can expect to find a wide range of themes and subjects explored by Seidman: Mahatma Gandhi, Muhammed Ali, Abraham Lincoln, Benny Golson, Lake Powell, the Golden Gate Bridge, and much more. Walking through the exhibition is immersive with themes such as cultural icons, politics, music, and places near and far found throughout Observations. There is even an entire series dedicated to works created on repurposed FedEx envelopes. Originally paint palettes, the envelopes were given a second life as an unexpected surface for his expressive works of art.
“When I first saw Stewart’s work, it was his unique use of FedEx envelopes that piqued my interest in learning more about the artist,” said Jessica Kinsey, director/curator. “I believe his subject matter, bold use of color, and approach to the surface will attract many new audiences to SUMA this summer. Our community is fortunate to have such a talented artist living and working in southern Utah.”
Audiences are invited to learn more about the artist and exhibition through a new podcast called “Observations & Conversations,” which can be found on Spotify or other podcast platforms. Episodes will be released each week of the exhibition. Due to the influence of music, Seidman also organized a playlist for visitors that can be found on the museum’s website.
