CHC Gallery is proud to announce Tragedy in Pop, Joshua Gage’s first solo show with the gallery. After several group exhibitions in the Abstract Expressionist style, Gage’s approach has progressed—an artist possessing International Relations focused background—his fascination with history and politics is the driving force behind the show concept.

Gage’s vibrant depictions of tragic events in history portray ominous scenes in a startling palette suggesting the iconography of the events. In one scene, KKK members are taking a stroll during the day—the idea is alarming by automated response, however in bubble gum pinks and robin’s egg blue, the image triggers confusion of the senses. The automation of response in an unorthodox approach to style, color and subject matter facilitates a questionable reaction.

The artist is presenting an approach of how intellectual and emotional expectations of [tragic events] influence our perceptions. By prompting the viewer to explore expectations of automated response, he is questioning what happens to the subject so routinely experienced in the language of gravitas when it is presented in frivolity. It is the proposition of the series that the human experience can be at once both powerful and perfunctory visceral and dismissive. While the power and viscera may be appropriate, they may not be genuine. His goal is not a more accurate perception, it is not even necessarily a different perception—it is simply a more endogenous perception.

Joshua Gage earned his M.A. from New York University and his B.A. from Tufts University. Gage specializes in Far Eastern and Middle-Eastern Politics. Gage has been involved with non-profit and humanitarian organizations throughout his career. This will be the first time he merges politics with art. He currently lives and works in New York City.