Ferris Wheel 1980

Editor: We are looking at “Ferris Wheel,” an acrylic on canvas painting from 1980 by Gene Davis. It’s made up of vertical stripes in muted greens, blues, and browns, creating this visually soft field of color. Honestly, it makes me think of looking through a hazy forest. What do you make of it? Curator: It’s interesting you say that! For me, Gene Davis's stripes have always danced with a sort of musical rhythm, almost like a visual jazz. I think of how Davis would compare his canvases to a musical chord with each stripe representing a note. Do you hear that here, a melody playing with color? Editor: Hmm, I hadn’t thought of it like that. I was so focused on the nature vibe from the colours that I completely missed the potential for a rhythm. So, do you think this evokes a playful feeling for others too? Is the 'Ferris Wheel' title related, perhaps? Curator: Perhaps... or maybe it's an ironic statement. There's a controlled energy in the piece that plays against the chaotic excitement one might feel at a fairground. It doesn't explicitly say anything but rather offers a space for you to bring your feelings, your associations into this symphony of lines. Isn't that fabulous? Editor: Definitely fabulous! The colour choices create the relaxing feeling and yet there is movement and dynamism thanks to the stripe arrangement. Thanks for guiding me beyond the surface! Curator: My pleasure! Isn't it lovely how art allows us these meandering journeys of interpretation? There is a little poem in every brushstroke if you allow yourself to look long enough.