These paintings seem familiar even as they are unique and one artist they recall is Cecily Kahn (profiled here in November 2000). Between both artists there is a shared attention to texture, organic forms and a similar palette. Another artist that bears comparison is Tom Nozkowski. Again the palette is similar but there is also a common quality of implied quirkiness and humor. The size of the canvases also links Taylor to the other two. But more than anything, each one of these three artists maintain a steadfast individuality even as their paintings ride a similar stylistic wavelength.
Chiasmus, 2000, oil on canvas, 36 x 48 in.
So what is Taylor up to with these dynamically elegant paintings? Obviously any number of things but one place to begin is with how they
The Singer�s Temple, 2000, oil on canvas, 30 x 30 in.
relate to and handle space. Cubism comes to mind for the way in which they turn space inside out. They represent places; physical places as well as those of the imagination. This works takes you into, around and through all kinds of spatial planes. The artist tears and shreds it apart only to reconstruct it again. And clearly she has a blast doing it; you see it in the work as it tickles and challenges you. At the same time Taylor is clearly interested in creating harmonious contrasts of color and surface. As a result these paintings are delicious treats for the eye.
Know What, 2002, oil on paper and canvas, 18 x 18 in.
