The Shaker Historical Society’s Lissauer Gallery is proud to present the work of Paul Spina, Image as a Poem: Works on Paper.

Paul’s work includes both painting and commercial illustration. Paul uses personal image, narratives and symbolism of the decade as inspiration for his work. His subject matter includes common themes on World War II references, military aircraft, war, sharks, women, and businessmen. Weapons of destruction, propaganda, the looming Cold War and the angst of nuclear annihilation. Paul’s signature multicolored Good and Plenty candy shape became a sugar-coated symbol encapsulating the rough parts of contemporary life.

Paul’s formal training and command of commercial illustration began years before the advent of computer graphics, photoshop and digital sampling. He worked in the Madison Avenue world of modern advertising. His paintings are quickly deciphered symbols. They have a hard-edged irony, cynical humor and commercial directness pitting cartoon characters, dictators, and dime store toys alongside our deepest anxieties and subconscious desires.

The free opening reception to view his work is Friday September 13th from 6-8pm. This event will include access to the museum, Paul’s art and appetizers and drinks.

If you cannot make the opening reception you can view his work anytime the museum is open between September 13th and November 3rd.