art

Watching people peruse Jan Morgen's paintings at the Snyderman Gallery, one will see most viewers begin about two feet or so away from a piece, then step away a few feet more for an expansive look, and finally move all the way back in for a tight, scrutinizing close-up. "The work reveals itself over time," says Morgen. "It keeps unfolding. It's not a quick bright blast. It's something that's more internal and thoughtful and inner-reaching."

Far from bright, these monochromatic works employ what Morgen refers to as "noncolor colors … I think more in terms of earth and stone."

Each work of paper mounted on wood is crafted via a time-consuming process whereby Morgen adds layer upon layer of paint and gesso that she intricately etches with pencils and assorted scraping tools to wind up with repetitive patterns of marks, scars and drips. Subtle variations of shading have the effect of causing these patterns to appear to pulsate. "It's all done by hand, so each mark is unique and is not perfect. One is maybe thicker than the other and it does absolutely vibrate," Morgen asserts. "It feels like it's alive."

Marks made of lines, squiggles, boxes and circles create soothing motifs, and that's partly due to Morgen's process: She meditates prior to setting down to work. "It's putting myself in this ultra-conscious position … and it becomes a marvelous rhythmical experience of brushwork," explains the artist. "I am very much about people feeling my energy and my spirit in the work."

Jan Morgen, opening reception Fri., Feb. 3, 5:30-8:30 p.m., exhibit through Feb. 25, Snyderman Gallery, 303 Cherry St., 215-238-9576.