November 16-December 28, 2003

Emerson Woelffer: A Solo flight
Curated by Ed Ruscha
Opening Reception: November 20, 6-9 pm

A survey of the career of the highly regarded artist, teacher and innovator, Emerson Woelffer: A Solo Flight is a memorable tribute to the Los Angeles-based Abstract Expressionist. Conceived and curated by former student and longtime friend Ed Ruscha, the exhibition features more than 50 works representing six decades of Woelffer's career. Woelffer began teaching painting at the Chouinard Art Institute in 1959 and moved to Valencia when Chouinard was incorporated into CalArts. His innovative combination of surrealism and gestural improvisation set Woelffer apart, inspiring the respect of peers such as Robert Motherwell, who considered him one of the heavyweights of Abstract Expressionism. A 64-page color exhibition catalogue includes an essay by Gerald Nordland and remarks by former students and colleagues including Ruscha, Mary Corse, Joe Goode, Dennis Hopper, George Herms and Allen Ruppersberg.

Emerson Woelffer: A Solo Flight is dedicated to the memory of Ira Yellin, who always wanted to see CalArts downtown. The exhibition catalogue is made possible by the generous support of Manny Silverman Gallery, Otis College of Art and Design, the Dedalus Foundation, Laura and Casey Wasserman, and Joan and Fred Nicholas.

Read the press release



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