Johnny Madsen: Red, Yellow, and the Blues

Denise Bibro Fine Art is pleased to present Johnny Madsen: Red, Yellow, and the Blues. On view September 3 through October 3, this is the Danish neo-expressionist’s first solo show in the United States. Depicting psychologically charged, provocative, and mysterious figures, Madsen’s thickly impastoed acrylic surfaces pulsate with energetically painted primary colors. A legendary rock and blues musician in Denmark since the 1980s, Madsen has been painting for thirty years, and enjoyed notoriety as an artist in the past decade with shows in Denmark, Venice, and London. We are excited to have the opportunity to premier his work in the United States as part of this international tour.

Madsen cites the Fauves, translated as “the wild beasts,” among his influences. Like them, he uses color freed from a merely descriptive role, and employs it for expressive emotional effect. The paint, often applied with a palette knife, has a vibrant, raw quality. In Madsen’s own words, “It is important to me that [the painting] isn’t too perfect. If my strokes turn too tidy it’s not right. A painting is supposed to vibrate. It must possess energy, otherwise it’s not right.”

Born in Thyborøn, Madsen began drawing and painting at an early age and has developed his practice as a painter in tandem with his musical career. He has exhibited his work widely since the early 1980s, and recently mounted a solo show at Mews42 Gallery in London. Madsen has his own gallery on Fanø, where he paints and exhibits his work.

Torben Gettermann, Consul General of Denmark, will host a reception for the artist Thursday, September 10 from 6 to 9pm. Refreshments will be served, and Madsen will perform a selection of his own music.

For more information, or to request high resolution images, contact the gallery at 212.647.7030, [email protected], or visit www.denisebibrofineart.com. The gallery would like to recognize the Royal Danish Consulate General of New York for their assistance with this exhibition.