ennis martin • into the next dimension

Ennis Martin • Into the Next Dimension continues at the RGB Lounge through June 23rd. The vast majority of this body of work was created in the RGB space, with the specific intention of this show and is based on Ennis'  forthcoming graphic novel entitled The Black Book Chronicles-- "a children's book for adults" which combines elements of the ominous and the innocent. 

The Chronicles' story line begins in a post-apocalyptic earth, in which aliens have returned to re-create our world with little reference of the previous. The only record they have are torn and tattered pieces of Charles Darwin's The Origin of the Species. The aliens commence to experiment with concepts of how they perceive life should be. Beginning with aquatic life, they fashion jellyfish, squid and whales, the later they have termed Darwins, in reference to The Origin of the Species. These original creations are metamorphic beings that can walk on land, as well as, swim the waters.  

In time, the aliens became familiar with the theory of evolution, yet are still taxed by it's application. They create a prototype of the human being they designate "Afterman", an androidish, bio-mechancal representation of how they envision humankind. Later evolutionary examinations result in a next generation of humanoids known as "Submarine Man," yet perfection of the species still eludes them. 

Meanwhile, an underlying story line unfolds. There are remnants of the old Earth that begin to rebuild themselves. Those remnants are machines. Piloted by seemingly innocuous creatures such as bunny rabbits and teddy bears, these "Mechs" as they are coined, provide tension to the story line by violently opposing the new creation brought on by the struggling aliens. 

Contrast and conflict from almost the beginning of new live provide the unavoidable balance that has always accompanied the paradoxical nature of our existence-- the ominous and the innocent. 

Into the Next Dimension also represents the process of taking Ennis' art from the canvas into a three dimensional form. We would like thank him for allowing a small team of talented installation artists to replicate his art into that third dimension. Artists Kelsey Sementa and Shea Cahill and RGB staffers Nic Sementa and Stuart Hall have collaborated to bring a few of Mr. Martin's works into the next dimension. Kelsey worked diligently on replicating the ever present Jellies and Shea did a masterful job of recreating "Teddy Mech," while Nic and Stuart labored together on "Submarine Man." We hope that we have served your art justly.

This show also highlighted the combined talents and efforts of the entire RGB family-- co-ops and staff. Hard work and dedication to a single goal results in the attainment of that goal. A job well done by all. 

The RGB Lounge and Black Book Chronicles are pleased to present Ennis Martin • Into the Next Dimension. Showing until June 23rd. Closing reception Thursday, 6/23, 7 to 11pm. RGB Lounge • Art Gallery/Event Space • Design/ Production House • Artists Co-op • 1420 N. Milwuakee Av. • Chicago, Il • 60622 • Hours Mon thru Sat 12 to 8 pm 


Photography by Ray Distor