Holly Johnson Gallery will present the opening of Geoff Hippenstiel’s “Purity.” The artist brings a fresh approach to expressionism with new, large-scale oils paired with a selection of small works on paper. This exhibition marks the artist's second solo show with the gallery.

Hippenstiel pushes abstraction in a manner that reinvigorates the materiality of paint. Using diverse materials such as enamel, wax, metallic and fluorescent artist's pigments, as well as industrial paints, he allows for an allusion of depth while affirming the importance of surface. His works are a study in contrast, explosive yet controlled, abstract but still vaguely representational. Wielding a brush, a palette knife, and airbrush, he builds up layers of paint with an innovative technique that still pays homage to gestural abstraction. Abstract expressionism will continue as a creative force as long as artists like Hippenstiel continue to explore its many aspects, revitalizing it and bringing it into the 21st century.

Following the opening reception, the exhibit will be on view through June 16.