The exhibition offers an intimate exploration of works by artists Julien Gardair and Melanie Vote, who beyond their individual artistic pursuits, share a bond as a married couple. 

The meeting of different artistic visions reveals connections in creativity, and this exhibition uncovers these unexpected harmonies, exposing a silent dialogue between the two artists’ works. 

Although Gardair and Vote live together, their studios are in different locations and have distinctly diverse artistic practices.

Julien Gardair’s recent paintings reveal his innovative approach to art.  Drawing inspiration from the Supports/Surfaces movement in France and the Pattern/Decoration movement in the United States, Gardair’s art is a fusion of materiality and pattern, along with the structural constraints of Minimalism.

These multi-faceted pieces are a synthesis of vibrant paintings and textile works and are created by employing techniques like folding, cutting, and stitching. His work challenges the viewer’s perception of materiality. His sustainable approach ensures that no parts of the paintings are discarded, nodding to the global potential of restoration and upcycling.

Melanie Vote embarks on a visual exploration of impermanence, emphasizing the ever-changing nature of existence and inviting her viewers to be transported into her forest experiences.  Vote’s deep connection with trees is palpable and invites reflection on our relationship with the natural world. 

Raised on a farm in Iowa and now a long-time resident of New York City, her paintings delve into the intricate relationship between humans and the land, linking her formative and present influences in nature.  Each of Vote’s intimately sized paintings in this exhibition begins en plein air and the artist later weaves subtle narration to the work in the studio.

“These paintings are paired throughout the show, one with another and it seems like they are talking to one another.”
Brainard Carey in an interview for Yale University Radio
Listen to interview on Yale University Radio WYBCX