The Knapp Gallery is excited to announce The New Philadelphia School, an exceptional group exhibition for the months of July and August!
The Knapp Gallery is pleased and excited to announce an exceptional group exhibition for the summer months. The New Philadelphia School will feature paintings by Knapp Gallery artists Tom Brady, Chuck Connelly, Giappo DiFederico, Jon Eckel, Adam Lee Farrell, and R. Michael Walsh.
Interpreting the themes of religion, sexuality, social class, and the changing face of the urban landscape, The New Philadelphia School confidently critiques and re-evaluates the role of the modern painter within the framework of the historically conservative Philadelphia Academy technique.
Leading the younger artists within The New Philadelphia School, master artists Tom Brady and Chuck Connelly act as the bridge between classic themes and modern conventions. Tom Brady boldly uses paint to create an almost sculptural effect! Conversely, Chuck Connelly approaches in these selected works the sensuality of the historic nude and the contemporary role of the female figure. With lush and sensual brush strokes, Connelly’s rich canvases coolly embrace the decadence of modern life while the working class figures of Brady’s paintings emotionally reject this fascination.
All classmates, the younger generation of The New Philadelphia School have studied, painted, and grown up together. Their camaraderie establishes a strong working relationship of influence and critique. The contemporary religious works of Giappo DiFederico and R. Michael Walsh approach the culture of religion within the current social and political climate. Adam Lee Farrell focuses on this dissatisfaction from a different direction, highlighting the ambivalence of fear and desire within contemporary culture. Jon Eckel’s work also expresses this desire both to escape the complications of urban life and to retreat into the wilds of the subconscious.
Together, the artists of The New Philadelphia School exude the raw energy, unbridled enthusiasm, and historic iconology which permeate the city in which they live and create! Please join us for this exciting exhibition!
The Knapp Gallery is committed to exhibiting the most sophisticated, contemporary fine art. Simultaneously, we are introducing our exceptional, innovative artists to national and international markets.