pr 1994

Robert Goodnough's "pr" is an explosion of painted canvas fragments on a flat plane, demonstrating an engagement with process and materiality. At first glance, it seems like a chaotic arrangement, but there is a deliberate composition at play. The artist has cut and arranged numerous triangular and geometric forms, each one retaining the textures and gestures of paint on canvas. It's as if we are witnessing the deconstruction of a traditional painting, transformed into an almost mosaic-like construction. The use of shaped canvas is interesting, as this technique is borrowed from traditions of decorative arts and furniture-making. Goodnough's method involves acts of making, deconstruction, and then reconstruction; challenging the traditional understanding of art. "pr" can also be seen as a reflection on mass production and the abundance of materials in contemporary society. Ultimately, "pr" encourages us to reconsider the boundaries of artistic expression, challenging us to appreciate the labor and artistry embedded within the materials themselves.