John MacConnell: Fragments

Fragments, an exhibition of new work by John MacConnell, explores storytelling through the human form in both ancient and modern iterations, revealing fascinating commonalities between the two. MacConnell sketches and paints Classical sculptures alongside contemporary individuals, linking mythmaking in the Greco-Roman world with our current society.

Using sculptures from the sanctuary at Delphi and the Acropolis in Athens as reference, MacConnell poses his models in the contrapposto forms of Hellenic statues. The figures are then fragmented, as ancient sculptures often are after thousands of years, missing an arm, leg, or even head, as if time and use had worn them away. The removal of narrative framework leaves much to speculation, urging the creation of stories to fill in the unknowns, to understand who or what is being considered. 

This body of work continues MacConnell’s ongoing interest in exploring our experiences and interactions with social media. The juxtaposition of contemporary bodies and ancient sculptures serves as a framework through which MacConnell examines the narratives we create about ourselves and others. Just as much of what we know about the heroes and statesmen of antiquity is built from bits of information, so are our online personas an amalgamation of fragments – curated selections from various social media accounts and dating profiles. 

Join us for an opening reception with the artist, Friday, May 19, 6-8pm. The exhibition is on view May 18 through July 8, 2023.

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