The inaugural exhibit at the Maltz Performing Arts Center presents the work of John L. Moore, an internationally recognized and locally renowned artist.
Born in Cleveland in 1939, Moore grew up in the neighborhood surrounding the Maltz Performing Arts Center. Rockefeller Park, with Doan Brook running through it, was his childhood playground as he rode his bike along the creek down to Lake Erie.
The six artworks on exhibit represent a collection of Moore’s abstract and deeply personal paintings and drawings. They are ambiguous, mysterious and take us on an “interpretive adventure.” Through vivid color and strong brushwork, we float along in rushing waters or outer space and encounter enigmatic shapes that read as otherworldly presences, portals and mirrors.
The Putnam Collection at CWRU has now acquired three of the evocative paintings for our campus community. The additional three large drawings will remain on exhibit until April 15 on the lobby level of the Maltz Performing Arts Center. Cleveland Plain Dealer art critic Steven Litt reviewed Moore’s work and reflected on his long career.