The Woodlands Arts Council is showcasing the captivating works of local artist Martin Amorous in his new solo show, “The Poetry of Gravity.” The exhibition, which runs through March 6, is being held at the Council’s new headquarters and exhibition space.
Amorous, known for his moody and atmospheric artwork, presents a collection of monochromatic pieces that explore both physical and emotional contrasts of light and dark. His works are infused with symbolism, often reflecting themes of nature, shelter, vulnerability, and cultural exposure. “The vibe is dark, apocalyptic,” says Amorous.
The artwork is created using a blend of oil paint, ink, linseed oil, and enamel. Amorous favors these materials for their fluidity, allowing the paint to flow and create dynamic drip-and-pour effects on canvas and paper. The exhibit features two large paintings and several smaller framed works.
Describing his process, Amorous explains, “I use a gallon of enamel — one black, one white — and shake it with linseed oil. Once it’s ready, I pour it onto the canvas, and the paint’s fluidity gives me control over the direction and shape. I work behind the canvas and tilt it to create the desired effect.”
Creating his large-scale pieces is a time-intensive process. Due to the required drying time for each layer, the larger works take months to complete. Amorous continues, “I keep working on the painting until I’m satisfied with both the visual and intellectual outcome. Every spill of paint leads to the next decision, creating a record of all my choices.”
While Amorous often leaves his pieces unnamed, the title of the exhibition — “The Poetry of Gravity” — reflects the theme that binds them all. “Gravity controls the paint as it drips and shapes the work. My manipulation of both gravity and paint creates the visual illusion you see. Poetry, in this case, is the opposite of narrative, and gravity is the opposite of levity,” he explains.
Curator Annette Palmer highlights the contrast in Amorous’ work, saying, “These pieces explore nature’s dualities — light and shadow, day and night. The skeletal trees and winter landscapes speak to the bare bones of nature in a poetic and minimalistic way. His use of black and white lines and drips captures a vast post-apocalyptic landscape.”
Amorous, who retired in 2020 after 25 years with the Department of Art at Sam Houston State University, is well-versed in the art world. He began his career at the university in 1995, eventually becoming Chair of the Department of Art before returning to full-time teaching. He holds a BFA and MA in painting from the University of New Mexico, and an MFA in painting from the University of Arizona.
Now living and working in Willis with his wife, artist Cynthia Reid, Amorous continues to create thought-provoking art that explores the balance between nature, culture, and the raw forces of gravity.
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