Photo by Wanda Jackson. Ed Bisese's work "Careless" uses narrative elements from children's stories and folk tales, such as "The White Hare and the Crocodile."

Published on: Thursday, February 02, 2012

By Wanda Jackson

On one hand, artist Ed Bisese’s works are imaginative, humorous and just plain silly. On the other hand, his works tell a story and document a journey.

“Art supports layers of meaning and introduces unforeseen connections,” Bisese said. “Art remains open to interpretation. Actively engaging with art and finding a personal meaning makes art an important part of life.”

Bisese’s art will be displayed through March 16 at the Greenbelt Community Center Art Gallery. On Sunday, Bisese will discuss his works from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the gallery’s Artful Afternoon artist reception.

The exhibit, titled “SupaMonsta - Paintings by Ed Bisese,” features 25 contemporary works in a variety of mediums, including ink and house paint on shaped wood, acrylic and collage on wood panel, and acrylic on canvas. The exhibit features two kinds of work: sideshow banners and painted collages.

“The sideshow banners use narrative elements from children’s stories and folk tales, to tell a new story,” said Bisese. “They are painted on un-stretched canvas hung on grommets. This method makes it easier to hand, transport and store finished paintings.”

“The collage making process is longer. I collect images that interest me from newspapers and fashion and art magazines. The clippings can rest in boxes for years before they are selected, torn, glued to wood panels, sanded smooth and painted. Finished paintings are covered with a layer of acrylic sealer,” Bisese added. “The images in these pieces are a combination of imaginary organs and their network of vessels and a surrogate, companion or satellite figure.”

A College Park resident, Bisese has exhibited paintings, drawings and sculpture in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area at several galleries and venues.

He also currently teaches drawing, painting and design as an adjunct faculty member at George Mason University and the Corcoran School of Art.

A registered landscape architect, Bisese received a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, and a Master’s of Fine Arts from the University of Maryland.

For additional information about Bisese’s works and Greenbelt arts programs, call 240-542-2057 or visit www.greenbeltmd.gov/arts. The Greenbelt Community Center Art Gallery is located at 15 Crescent Road in Greenbelt.