Mark Ryden’s new solo show opened this Saturday at the Michael Kohn Gallery in Hollywood. “The Tree Show” opened to a line that wrapped around the block. Once inside, the work completely justified the wait. The gentle pallete and formal compositions juxtapose the innocent and serene with cryptic and menacing elements. The viewer could spend hours disecting the symbols and meaning of each painting.

In addition to the paintings, special attention was given to the frames which in some cases were carved with increadible detail.

Perhaps as delightful as the paintings, a collection of reference books and toys formed an installation. Detailed sketches with the artist’s notes decode some of the paintings’ secrets. The show definately merits a visit (or two). It runs at the Michael Kohn Gallery through April 28th.

Mark Ryden’s paintings are an eclectic mix of new and old styles. His subjects are cute and friendly yet dark and rebellious at the same time. His technique however is as classic as you can get- oil and soft brushes. Ryden mixes the style of old masters like Bruegel and Ingres with a Tim Buttonesque attitude and generous helpings of raw meat.