FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



Edward Burtynsky

January 19 - March 2, 2002


EDWARD BURTYNSKY's photographs, monumental both in scale and subject, capture the indomitable spirit of nature in the face of human-imposed adversity. His first exhibition at Charles Cowles Gallery focuses on recent expeditions to the shipbreaking beaches of Bangladesh. In these works BURTYNSKY explores the dramatic panoramas of vessels beached in Chittagong. In various degrees of dismantlement for scrap metal, the cannibalized ships are rich subjects for both atmospheric vistas and abstract compositions found in their rusted bellies.

BURTYNSKY's work is remarkable for its rich detail, which he achieves through expert choice of tools. He uses a large format viewfinder camera to capture the compositions in situ. Punctuated with unexpected reference points like ladders, people, and vegetation, the expansive terrain is fully celebrated in the epic proportions of his prints.

Charles Cowles Gallery is debuting BURTYNSKY's latest work, Container Ports, examining geometry and color in the shipping docks of Halifax, Montreal and Vancouver. Also on view are a selection of his iconic works from earlier series including Rock of Ages quarries, Oxford Tire Piles, and Nickel Tailings.

BURTYNSKY's works are included in distinguished museum collections including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art; National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario; and Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. A mid-career retrospective organized by the National Gallery of Canada will tour Canada and Europe in 2003.

A catalogue is available ($20). Residual Landscapes, a limited edition book with an interview by Michael Torosian, is for sale ($200). A special slipcased version of Residual Landscapes, edition of 20, includes a Giclée print ($450).

The exhibition will be on view at the Charles Cowles Gallery, 537 West 24th Street, between 10th and 11th Avenues in Chelsea. Hours are 10am to 6pm, Tuesday through Saturday.

There will be a reception for the artist on Friday, January 25 from 6-8 pm.

For further information or photographs, please contact the gallery.