Cohn Drennan Contemporary will debut its new gallery space at 4118 Commerce with Meaty, an exhibition of paintings by Chisum Justus. Justus’ current series of paintings addresses the concepts and symbolism of meat as subject and signifier in relation to art and society. This series addresses meat’s cultural importance as a representation of the domination we seek over culture – not as individuals, but as members of a society that places value on that power.

In Texas, particularly in the Texas panhandle where Justus is from, historical legacies and family fortunes have been built on mountains of cattle carcasses.  And many communities rely on the income provided by the beef industry, which is ever-present in our homes, at our eateries and in the permeating mass-food marketing that surrounds us.

Following the opening reception, the exhibit will be on hand through May 31.