Abstract art you can read by putting the pieces together

There are some of us in the world of art appreciation who have an extensive knowledge and admiration for abstract art, and then there are quite a few who just don’t get it.

A good thing for both groups of people comes in the form of the current exhibit at SCOOP studios, Lines of Communication, featuring the work of artist Christopher Murphy.

Canvases are made up of not only paint, but collaged materials that relate quite cleverly to their titles. Clues can be found in the newspaper articles, bits of wire, old cds and other familiar objects integrated into the image. Murphy’s work explores contemporary culture and the collective human experience. This is apparent in thematic concepts such as communication, the information age and familiar landscapes placed in a new context.

Using bold, bright swatches of color, each work has its own chromatic theme akin to puzzle pieces that make up a larger image. Viewers can make a game out of discovering the meaning behind each piece when relating the materials used to the title of the work.

Christopher Murphy has a BFA from Columbus College of Art and Design and an MFA from Georgia Southern University. He is also actively involved with the ground breaking Kulture Klash events in Charleston.

SCOOP Studios is located at 57 1/2 Broad St. and is open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am-5pm and by appointment on Sunday and Monday. Lines of Communication: Solo Exhibit by Christopher Murphy is on view through February 20, 2010.