Prints and sculptures explore the same theme, the rides of Steeplechase, in Coney Island.
Angels float from the Parachute Jump although the ride has been closed for many years, the structure still stands as a landmark to the glory days of Coney Island.
Steeplechase at Coney Island was a mad place in those days. No wonder it has left such an indelible mark on the artist's psyche.
Installation view of the Roller Coaster, combining sculpture and drawings.
Myles Meehan Gallery - Darlington Arts Centre
Randy Klein grew up in Coney Island, New York City, and has always loved the sights and smells of the amusement park. But the vertigo of the rides and the garish colours of the lights and images of Coney Island become in this exhibition a metaphor for the everyday chaos around us. These are contrasted with the angels. In the midst of the fury and madness is a voice of stillness and hope.
This exhibition explores these themes through sculpture and large-scale graphic works evoking the atmosphere of the fun fair overseen by the tranquillity of angels.
This exhibition gave the artist an opportunity to share the fantasy of that tinsel paradise with the unsuspecting residents in the north of England.
The exhibition was a great success, with over 5000 visitors.
Copyright © Randy Klein 2011