i once dreamt of endless rain

About

This exhibition delves into the subconscious mind, weaving a narrative that juxtaposes the experiences of two central characters: one awake and daydreaming, and the other asleep and dreaming. Swensen’s artistic journey is profoundly influenced by themes of hope, aspiration, and fear, as seen in the fleeting yet consuming nature of dreams.

Through a visual diary that includes paintings and works on paper, Swensen captures the essence of these ethereal experiences. His use of surreal imagery and diverse materials creates a rich, immersive experience for the viewer. The exhibition features works such as “Painting In the Garden at Night (Dreamer),” a small, color portrait on paper board mounted on wood, accompanied by graphite works on paper that delve into the character’s subconscious. Contrasting this is “Spellbound (Daydreamer),” a large figurative oil painting framed in dark wood, surrounded by smaller, vibrant surreal oil paintings. Swensen’s incorporation of animal imagery within these works symbolizes the expression of authentic feelings and the innate instincts present in both dreams and daydreams.

Dreams, as explored in this exhibition, are not merely flights of fancy but are deeply rooted in the brain's mechanisms. The neuroscientist Dr. Matthew Walker, states, "Dreaming is a biological necessity. It helps to regulate our emotions, solve problems, and consolidate memories." The use of surreal elements in Swensen's work mirrors how the brain synthesizes and processes experiences and emotions during REM sleep, often weaving disparate elements into coherent, though sometimes fantastical, narratives. Swensen’s work emphasizes the personal and existential connections between the conscious and unconscious mind. His compositions, while surreal, maintain a structured order that reflects the history of their creation through found materials and unconventional canvases. This juxtaposition of life and death within his pieces encourages viewers to navigate life's challenges and find personal meaning through art.