Far, Dark Places by Craig Cromartie at the ShowUp Gallery in Boston

Today, we’ll explore what happens when art becomes not simply a form of creative expression, but a way of finding freedom where freedom itself is severely limited. During the program, we’ll feature Far, Dark Places, a solo exhibition by self-taught artist Craig Cromartie, on view at the ShowUp Gallery in Boston. Much of the work in this exhibition began while Craig was incarcerated, using the most basic materials available to him: standard-issue paper, colored pencils, watercolors, tape, and even Q-tips. From those modest materials, he created remarkably detailed and imaginative worlds that move between landscape, fantasy, and surrealism. Throughout Craig’s work, we encounter powerful contrasts: darkness and light, good and evil, confinement and freedom, along with recurring images and symbols that invite us to look more closely and consider their meaning. In addition to Craig, we’ll be joined by highly accomplished artist and educator Marla McLeod, who curated Far, Dark Places, and Christine O’Donnell, founder and Executive Director of the ShowUp Gallery. Together, we’ll explore Craig’s extraordinary artistic journey, the experiences and ideas behind these works, how Marla shaped them into this exhibition, and why Christine felt Far, Dark Places was a story ShowUp should share.