Parting Shot

by Tara Quealy, February 25, 2008

Lou Patrou, Clowns, 2007, graphite drawing on paper, 30” x 44”


“I have drawn still Life studies and abstract work,” Lou Patrou says. “But I don’t get anywhere near the satisfaction when I’m done with those as when I have something living in the drawing, some life.” Figures can always be found in Patrou’s pieces, whether it’s animals, people, or fanciful characters with points sprouting out of them. He places his works into three categories: loose and scratchy pastels, decorative candy-like patterns in watercolors, and expressive pencil drawings. “A lot of artists, they like to stay in one temperament, one tone,” he says. “Not me. I get bored.”

After first drawing a five-horned devil 30 years ago, Patrou has incorporated pointed figures into his work ever since. Clowns is from a series of three pencil works that are Patrou’s latest incarnation of putting cone like objects on the heads of tribal-like figures that stare blankly at the viewer.

Patrou will be exhibiting his work at Pearl Daddy, 183 Main Street in Beacon, March 8 through May 4. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, March 8, from 6 to 9pm. (845) 765-0169; www.pearldaddy.net. Portfolio: www.patrou.com.