Are We There Yet by Wesley Clark

Are We There Yet features a collection of new works primarily consisting of graphite on paper and lithographic prints. At its core, the works are exercises in mark making, expressing pent up energies (thoughts, feelings, conversations) through drawing. “Where do I want to go,” “Where should I go,” and “Where am I going” are encapsulated in “Are We There Yet.” This incessant, child-like phrase is a check-in that takes measure of my progress; becoming the primary tool plotting my trek.

The art is discovered in the choices made with every mark added or subtracted determining the next steps. On one hand, these works become artifacts or records of the moment (or moments). On the other hand, there’s a loose narrative woven when reading the marks. Single words or short phrases are the conceptual substrates from which these drawings are built. The words originate from songs, sermons, or conversations and are chosen for a particular strength or for a need to further ponder. While executing a drawing, the word(s) fall back to a low mental reverb; a gentle processing of their meaning or relevance. Often worked to a degree of obscurity, their hints of existence are an added element in the narrative reading of the work.