Mary Heilmann to Be Someone

This nationally touring show is the first retrospective of work by influential New York-based painter Mary Heilmann. A pioneer of infusing abstract painting with influences from popular culture and craft traditions, Heilmann is one of the most important yet least recognized artists in the United States today.
One of the very few female abstract painters of her generation, she has nevertheless maintained a steadfast commitment to producing eccentric, engaging, visceral paintings. Featuring 75 works from the last three decades, the exhibition also explores Heilmann’s interest in ceramics, decorative arts, film, and music. It is organized by the Orange County Museum of Art. The show also tours to the New Museum of Contemporary Art, New York, in 2008. A catalogue featuring essays by Elizabeth Armstrong, Johanna Burton, Dave Hickey, and Al Ruppersberg accompanies the exhibition.