David Maxim

August 25 – December 1, 2012

Perkins Gallery

The elements of power and drama in David Maxim’s works are undeniable – tornadoes, masculine welders and warriors; even Maxim’s abstract pieces seem to evoke aggression. And yet, despite all of their strength, each subject reveals an equal measure of vulnerability. Maxim captures his warriors, not in the climax of battle, but in moments of weakness, facing grief, injury, and death. Trapped in Maxim’s images, the characters remain suspended in their pain; the absence of relief stretches the tension further. Some characters are even literally suspended, hanging by wires like marionettes and helpless to fight the greater power. His tornadoes, too, although invincible themselves, are reminders of imminent devastation and helplessness.