JOHALLA PROJECTS

art curatorial collective






Chad Kouri
No Wrong Answers

October 17, 2014 — November 30, 2014

Johalla Projects is very excited to present No Wrong Answers: Paper Paintings & Various Editions by Chad Kouri, its first gallery exhibition with the Chicago artist. For Kouri, who will show works in a solo setting for the first time in nearly five years, there are no definitive categories — no concrete interpretations. While he consistently (and consciously) moves effortlessly between the fields of design, commerce, and studio practice, Kouri’s work here has reached a new, thoughtful apex. The exhibition will be on view from October 17 through November 30. An opening reception will be held on Friday, October 17th.

At an initial level, No Wrong Answers delves into Kouri's ability to intuitively decipher and respond to primary forms and colors. The exhibition will showcase Kouri's new "paper paintings," which playfully reference Minimalist hard-edge geometric paintings and post-painterly abstraction. Here, cut papers replace the stern banks of paint and dividing lines are forged by blade, generating a self-referential conversation fueled by radiant hues, shapes, and relationships within each work’s plane. These works — graphic and direct in presentation — challenge the viewer to create their own dialog with each composition. Refreshingly, by enabling his works’ narratives to leave room for suggestion and contemplation, Kouri invites a new kind of visual literacy.

Another vital part of Chad Kouri’s practice deals with his interest in and use of editioned materials. For this exhibition, he will unveil several different multiples projects that range from wearable designed objects to a collection of text-based, overheard reactions at the 2014 Whitney Biennial during its opening weekend. These types of ongoing, real-life “collections” permeate Kouri’s maker mentality and often act as stimulation and inspiration for his more formal works, emphasizing the importance he places on accessibility and relatability.

A catalog will be produced on the occasion of the exhibition.

Chad Kouri (b. 1985) lives and works in Chicago, IL. His work has been included in solo and group exhibitions locally and nationally, with recent highlights including the Chicago Cultural Center (2014, 2011); Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, Chicago (2013); the Chicago Design Museum (2012, 2013) the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, NY (2012); and Jean Albano Gallery, Chicago (2011). Kouri also frequently serves as a visiting artist or lecturer, with recent appointments including Pratt Institute, NY; the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, IL; the Otis School of Art & Design, CA; and Purdue University, IN.  He is a co-founder of The Post Family, a Chicago-based art- and design-focused community engagement platform.