Even before entering the Berry Campbell Gallery in Chelsea, one can see through the broad window paintings that glow with amazing use of color. They are the works of important artist Albert Stadler (1923-2000), honored with the current show that runs through December 22 at the gallery owned by Christine A. Berry and Martha Campbell. The exhibit is appropriately called “Albert Stadler—Studies in Color.”
Stadler, whose first solo exhibition was held in 1962 at Bennington College, is recognized for combining color and minimalist art, as exemplified in this collection. Some of the works on display, nearly all in acrylic on canvas, are attractively bold, while others are sensitively subtle.
In surveying his paintings, one can appreciate Stadler’s ability to blend a variety of colors with his abstract imagery. One favorite is “Twilight,” which he did in 1973. Another is “Wild Character,” painted in 1979. Meadowrise (1983) is another dazzler, as is “Exotic Night.” (1982).
Mari Stadler, who was married to the artist, has dedicatedly worked to keep his art in the forefront, and Valerie Stadler, his daughter, has directed a film, “Albert Stadler: Color,” which explores his achievements. The film includes comments by Mari Stadler, Christine Berry and Sanford Wurmfeld, artist and Professor Emeritus of Hunter College.
The Berry Campbell Gallery is located at 530 West 24th Street. Phone: 212-924-2178. Posted November 17, 2017.