Jason McCoy Gallery is pleased to present an exhibition of recent realist and abstract paintings by Raymond Han.

While best known for his realist paintings, Raymond Han has increasingly explored abstraction in the past few years. This exhibition will mark the first opportunity to view examples of both recent figurative and abstract paintings in an integrated installation. It is while in close juxtaposition that the strict division between both genres begins to blur: whereas biomorphic shapes set against monochromatic backgrounds take on an almost physical presence, the simplicity of Han’s figurative arrangements allows for a heightened abstract reading. As a result, the works presented engage in an unusual dialogue; they draw upon each other and bring attention to their unique attributes and shared concerns.

Han’s unique sensibility for color and finely rendered forms succeeds in transforming the vast range of visuals at hand into a cohesive set of vocabulary. Though the objects and objectives of Han’s interest may vary, his aesthetic, which embraces a de-saturated palette sparked by distinct light sources, remains consistent. An overall sense of calm exudes from each composition, while delicate color accents and form transitions provide an unexpected edge. It is unusual to be able to trace an artist’s signature style through starkly opposing genres, yet Han makes it look easy, plausible and timeless.

Raymond Han was born in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1931. His work is in the permanent collections of The Honolulu Museum of Art, the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute (Utica, New York) and the Picker Art Gallery (Colgate College, Hamilton, New York), among others. He lives and works in Upstate New York.