Rob Zombie’s Art Exhibition Provokes at Morrison Gallery in CT

Heavy metal musician Rob Zombie is making a significant leap from music to visual arts with his first exhibition, “What Lurks on Channel X?” The showcase, featuring 18 of Zombie’s striking paintings, is currently on display at the Morrison Gallery in Kent, Connecticut, until November 16, 2023. The exhibition is a bold statement that challenges the perception of rock musicians as mere performers rather than multifaceted artists.

The Morrison Gallery, known for its museum-like atmosphere, provides a fitting backdrop for Zombie’s work, which is characterized by its vibrant and provocative style. The gallery’s serene setting contrasts sharply with the loud, brash nature of Zombie’s art, which explores themes of pop culture, horror, and social commentary. The paintings are notably large, with some measuring up to 6 feet by 10 feet, and are displayed without glass frames, enhancing their visceral impact.

Zombie, who attended the Parsons School of Design on a scholarship, had previously set aside his passion for painting. In his own words, he stated, “I loved painting but school made me hate it. So I stopped but in the past 10 years I rediscovered my love of it once again.” This exhibition marks his return to the medium, showcasing pieces painted between 2012 and 2020.

His artistic repertoire is extensive, reflecting his diverse interests and experiences. Beyond his music career, which includes eight solo albums and four with the band White Zombie, he has directed and produced numerous films, including the cult classic “House of 1000 Corpses” and the 2007 reboot of “Halloween.” This multifaceted background informs his artwork, which is rich in references to crime, horror, and the extremes of pop culture.

In “What Lurks on Channel X,” viewers encounter a vivid tapestry of imagery that includes iconic figures from film and television. Among the notable appearances are Frank Zappa, Fonzie from “Happy Days,” and infamous criminals like Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. Zombie’s work resonates with fans of the 1970s and 1980s, tapping into a collective nostalgia while also posing deeper questions about culture and society.

The exhibition also features pieces that connect with various modern art movements, from pop art to underground cartoon styles. For example, one of the standout works, “Metal Machine Music,” includes references to a wide array of cultural icons, including the band Devo and characters from Archie Comics. Each painting serves as a commentary on the chaotic interplay of media and society.

Among the exhibition’s highlights is “The Seven Words You Can’t Say on Television,” which pays homage to George Carlin’s iconic comedy routine. The artwork is visually striking, featuring the seven prohibited words prominently and surrounded by thought-provoking phrases that challenge societal norms.

As Zombie navigates his dual identity as a musician and a visual artist, this exhibit not only showcases his artistic talents but also invites a broader discussion about the role of rock musicians in the art world. His works stand on their own merit, deserving of the gallery space they occupy without relying solely on his celebrity status.

“What Lurks on Channel X?” is not merely an exhibition; it is a bold exploration of culture, identity, and the often-overlooked artistic talents of rock artists. The Morrison Gallery offers a unique opportunity to experience Zombie’s vision, and for those in the area, it is an event worth attending before its closing on November 16, 2023.