Palm Beach Atlantic University Presents AMERICOLOR: Exploring Urban Color Fields

Palm Beach Atlantic University is pleased to announce the opening of Urban Color Fields, a beautiful exhibition featuring the works of street photographer Dennis Church. Curated by Hirbod Human, it will be on view from August 12 through October 4, 2024, at the Tauni De Lesseps Art Gallery in The Warren Library. 

Dennis Church, known for his vibrant and dynamic street photography, brings a painter’s sensitivity to his depiction of urban environments. His latest collection, Urban Color Fields, showcases twenty carefully selected works that uniquely capture the complex interplay of color, shape and form in everyday urban scenes.

Church’s photographic journey began with a childhood trauma that altered his perception of color, influencing his unique visual language. This profound experience is evident in his ability to transform mundane urban scenes into intricate compositions of geometric shapes and harmonious color patterns. His photographs reveal an underlying order within the apparent chaos of urban life, drawing viewers into a visual symphony that is both captivating and thought-provoking.

Color plays a central role in Church’s work, with his transition from black-and-white to color photography marking a significant evolution in his artistic approach. His images convey emotion and narrative through a rich palette, turning everyday scenes into vivid, painterly compositions. This mastery of color is comparable to the works of abstract painters, creating a visual dialogue between photography and fine art.

In Urban Color Fields, Church’s relentless exploration of urban landscapes is on full display. His images document the ever-changing nature of city streets, construction sites, deserted alleys, and abandoned lots. The omnipresence of advertising in his photographs incorporates the pervasive influence of commercialism, transforming billboards and shop signs from mere visual clutter into integral elements of the urban narrative.

Church’s background in psychology and sociology deeply informs his photographic practice. His work offers a sociological commentary on contemporary urban life, reflecting the subconscious social coordination among city dwellers. This perspective adds depth to his images, encouraging viewers to contemplate the underlying social dynamics of the environments he captures.

Church’s ability to capture the perfect moment is evident in his meticulous timing and composition. He often waits for the ideal moment to press the shutter, resulting in photographs that feel both spontaneous and carefully crafted. His instinctual framing, which sometimes disregards conventional rules, allows him to present a raw and authentic perspective on urban life.

Dennis Church's work has received significant recognition in the field of street photography. His photographs have been featured in the seminal book Bystander: A History of Street Photography, authored by Colin Westerbeck and Joel Meyerowitz. He has exhibited widely in the USA and his photographs are in the permanent collections of several public institutions. His works have appeared in hard copy and on-line magazines in the USA, Italy, France, England, Russia and the Czech Republic. 

Curated by Hirbod Human, this exhibition is a testament to Dennis Church’s unique vision and exceptional talent. Join us at the Tauni De Lesseps Gallery of Art to experience the profound depth and complexity of Urban Color Fields. The opening reception will be on September 19 from 6 to 7:30 PM, with discussion led by the artist. Visitors are invited to join the conversation and to explore the unexpected meanings and connections in this beautiful work.