Name/Title
MissionaryEntry/Object ID
2006.38Description
Conger's works are vivid non-representational works, which he bases on a diverse range of subjects. His kinetic compositions interweave gently flowing forms that, while based in linear abstraction, ebb and flow together in organic curvilinear compositions.Context
This piece titled Missionary is a perfect example of his refined technique, where he meticulously layers paint to create delicate glowing compositions. Although the piece is non-representational, Conger explains how the title can evoke a multiplicity of meanings. In his words: "The title of the painting has nothing to do with missionary except that I mean the title to suggest that whatever one can say about the idea of missionary one can also say about painting as an endeavor and process. Art is a form of proselytizing analogous to religious proselytizing. The semi-circle, suggestive of the Islamic crescent, is actually just a fairly uncommon shape to Western eyes and is perhaps suggestive of the foreign-ness of abstraction. Thus the subject is art and painting, not religion as such. But of course, any allusions at all are fine with me, including none."Acquisition
Notes
Collection of the DePaul Art Museum, Gift of the artistEthnography
Notes
United States, Chicago
American
Chicago
North America, United StatesDimensions
Dimension Description
overallWidth
36 inDepth
2-1/2 inLength
36 in