Nothing Gold Can Stay

American Landscapes by Ard Berge

June 1, 2018 - September 7, 2018

Oil on linen by Ard Berge titled The Bounty (For Sale By Owner).

Introduction

My paintings explore the American landscape as a site of personal expression and social transformation. Foregrounding observed scenes of contemporary life, they at once reference America’s landscape painting tradition while revealing the social, cultural, and economic pressures that continue to redefine these environments. In the 21st century, we have the illusion of being able to control nature. My painting process acknowledges that we are but an element within it.

Created from life, the imagery invites reflection on scenes that at first glance might appear to privilege the pastoral. Ultimately, the work addresses signs of inexorable change.

Ard Berge