Plates

Plates are organized in reverse chronological order. For additional insight, please refer to the artist’s statement.

Beyond the picture frame…

Paying homage to the artist’s father, this piece explores the philosophical concept of impermanence.

03) threshold — Threshold. 2020. Richard Masters. Collage, graphite on 4×6 in. paper sample cards, 3 ft. x 6 ft. (triptych).

Derived from an earlier series of drawings, this project examines the darker side of clinical depression through its portrayal of detachment, despair, and debility. The three compositions are reproduced on translucent panels that are hung parallel to but several inches away from the wall, as illustrated below.

comp-01 — Searching for a…. 2019. Richard Masters. Installation, printed on 10.5 ft. x 3 ft. mesh panels.

This project attempts to see the world through the eyes of the artist’s son, who struggled with depression for seven years. After wandering around the streets of Manhattan one day, he casually remarked, “Dad, I really don’t see faces anymore.”

The artist hopes this piece can bring greater awareness to the issues concerning mental illness and the prevention of suicide, especially in how they relate to early detection efforts among teenagers.

The pictures below illustrate how these paintings might appear in a museum or gallery setting.