PAST EXHIBITION

Tom Marioni: Out-of-Body Free-Hand Circles

October 3, 2007—October 27, 2007

Tom Marioni pioneered using social situations as conceptual art in his celebrated and internationally acclaimed 1970 work, "The Act of Drinking Beer with Friends is the Highest Form of Art", documented only by photograph and involving friends gathering at the Oakland Art Museum for drinks and conversation.

Tom Marioni's interest in Asian art and thought, specifically Zen Buddhism, is reflected in the concepts behind his art. He calls attention to the creative process over the finished product, to the ephemeral over the permanent. Like Zen Buddhism, Marioni's work emphasizes the importance of recognizing the extraordinary in what may otherwise seem ordinary, through attention, awareness and consciousness. His drawings reflect the elegance and simplicity of Zen Buddhism and serve as a reminder of the artistic process.

Visit Gallery