Curator's Statement
Kenneth Cotlar: Transcendental Transitions demonstrates the commitment of
this artist to his art form. Beginning as a graphic artist, and now immersed in
the realm of abstraction, Cotlar employs an aesthetic style that has resulted in
efforts distinctly his own, with an approach that emphasizes his strong
compositional manner. Ken's color scheme ranges from the simple to the
extravagant; his lines and forms substantiate this realm.
Cotlar echoes the credo of French painter Gustave Courbet who wrote, I no
more wanted to imitate the one than to copy the other... I simply wanted to
draw forth the reasoned and independent consciousness of my own
individuality.'' His completed works succeed in transcending his emotions, thus
drawing the viewer into becoming personally involved with each painting. Ken
has allowed himself to delve deeply into his spiritual self in order to find his
own voice. This exhibit is a cohesive vision of Ken's work, consistently strong
in its color, line, form, and composition. His artwork is dynamic, imbued with
energy and optimism.
The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is honored to present an exhibition
of this prominent Pennsylvania artist.
Barbara Hollander
Exhibition Curator