Chris Bruch’s show is invigorating and shows an almost supernatural ability to combine various materials and techniques. He combines materials like fiberglass, epoxy, and pigment in clever and innovative ways, making sculptures that look like giant meteors or half human, half animal forms. One clue to his resulting works might come from his process of gathering all materials, impressions, ideas, and inspirations and then waiting. He spends time with these ingredients and pondering them until ideas crystallize and something arises that he can work with.
His works of ink on paper fall into two categories: simple, almost figurative looking sketches with a hint of surrealist influence, and works that have modulated areas of greys and black drips, with the use of white paper as a tone.
Bruch’s work is not likely to change your world view. Perhaps a return to some part of his socio-political or performance work would bring his work to a higher level of meaning. In the meantime, his new show is notable. Catch it through late August at Elizabeth Leach Gallery, 417 NW 9th, Portland, Oregon. —Lisa Parsons
