An exhibition of new photographs by Andrew Steiner is at Eat Paint Studio from November 12 through December 11, 2021. Beginning at the start of Chicago’s shut-down in March 2020, the black and white prints on view are both a personal documentation of the past two years and an outward search for meaning and beauty. An opening reception will be held on Friday, November 12, from 6-9PM.
“When do I see a photograph, when a reflection?”
― Philip K. Dick, A Scanner Darkly
Images of subway stations and streets empty of rush-hour traffic, a city without people, recall the disbelieving sense of uncertainty felt collectively as the cogs of modern life seemed to grind to a halt. Considered an essential worker, Steiner continued to travel between his Uptown apartment and downtown job on a daily basis. His portraits of neighbors and local businesses during this early time are intimate and compelling; a gaze signals connection, rather than mistrust.
As travel bans were lifted, Steiner was able to take a trip to Mexico which inspired a fresh visual narrative.
In “Jarabe Tapatío Dancers, Monterrey, Mexico,” the viewer is transported to another place and time. A courtship dance, photographed against the baroque Spanish architecture of the Palacio del Obispado, represents the woman first rejecting the man’s advances, then eventually accepting them (ah, true love). An expanse of aged stone steps flanked by two black clad figures lead us up toward a swirling costumed dancer framed by white stone columns. The black void of an arched doorway and empty windows pull at our gaze while the suited male dancers anchor us in the frame, creating a space for the coquettish female character to show her desire to be free, while also charming her captors.
“It’s like a song,” says Steiner of how he composes an image. “The elements all have to come together – available light, a look or gesture. It coalesces into something else, suggesting a different meaning. That depth of looking – is subversive because it makes us think.”
About Andrew Steiner
A self-taught documentary photographer based in Chicago, Andrew Steiner’s work makes use of dynamic compositions and a background in film photography in his spontaneous street scenes and portraiture. Andrew’s clients include The Gene Siskel Film Center, Crain’s Communications, and The Jane Goodall Institute. Mr. Steiner’s work has been published in burn Magazine, PDN News Online, Commonweal magazine and other online journals.
“Available Light: Photographs by Andrew Steiner is on view at Eat Paint Studio through December 11, 2021. An exhibit catalog will be available in the gallery and online.
Exhibit Programming:
Saturday, November 13, from 6-9PM
Later, with Music! – In addition to the opening reception on Friday, we will also host local musician Gary Camaro on the following Saturday evening. Get your free tickets here.
Saturday, December 4, from 3-4PM
Artist Talk – An artist talk with Andrew Steiner will take place in the gallery.
Thursday, December 9, from 5-8PM
Shop Late Lincoln Square: Select work by gallery artists is 10% off and more…
All gallery events are free and open to the public.
COVID-19 Policy:
At this time, masks are required in the gallery regardless of vaccination status. Appointments are available if you’d prefer to visit privately.
Parking and Transportation:
Metered street parking available. We are close to Western, Foster, Lincoln, and Lawrence bus routes. The Western brown line station is about a 5-10 min walk south from the gallery.