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I am interested in exploring the power structure of mythology through manipulation of classical allegories. Mythology continues to be relevant in contemporary culture because of its strong use of metaphor.

Mythology constantly finds its way into movies, plays, books, music, and art. The stories are repeated, rearranged, and rethought. Much of the time we don’t even know that myth is the basis for the narrative we are engaged in.

By breaking down classical works of art to single line drawings I am simplifying the visual structure of these pieces while establishing a connectedness to the past.

- Tad Lauritzen Wright, The Politics of Power (2016)

I was born in San Angelo, TX in 1972. I grew up there consuming rodeo, punk rock, playboy, cheap beer, shotguns, cartoons, farm trucks, skateboarding, Mexican border towns, and junkyard culture. Art came in the form of crappy posters won at the rodeo carnival ring toss, velvet posters of heavy metal bands, and handmade cowboy boots.

In my work, I am interested in generating an impromptu reaction to an idea, thought, or experience. I have always been attracted to art work that comes from discounted sources. I take basic ideas, simple plans, and rigorous daydreaming to an extreme in the work, always attempting to elevate my ideas and observations.

In addition to my solo work, I am also one half of the Mellow Mountain Coalition. The MMC is made up of myself, and Hamlett Dobbins. We have been involved in an expanding dialog and production for the past 5 years. The MMC approaches all projects from a completely impromptu point of engagement creating figurative based abstractions.

- Tad Lauritzen Wright

Tad’s upcoming solo exhibition, The Politics of Power, at David Lusk Gallery in Memphis opens on Friday, January 6, 2017.