Redux Contemporary Art Center is excited to present Even When It’s Dark, a solo show highlighting the work of Doug McAbee. Redux’s solo exhibitions showcases the practice of a single artist, emphasizing the unique mixture of media that can compose a retrospective exhibition.

Doug McAbee was taught the power of laughter and humor by his father and he seeks to channel that power into his creative work. With the understanding that art has the power to change how people think, McAbee has chosen to communicate positive and hopeful messages to his audience through his work.  

Often using imaginative creatures as stand-ins for the characters in my narratives, McAbee’s work focuses on the challenges that face all humans regardless of race, gender, or class. These issues are communicated through narratives and while the problems and dualities are acknowledged, there is always a sense of hope that we will overcome these challenges with kindness and community.  

The drawings on wood, steel sculptures, and murals represented in Even When It’s Dark are approachable by viewers of all ages. As viewers engage with the works of art they will connect with the absurdity, the liveliness, and the humor in the work. Whether for a few seconds or perhaps longer, the artist’s hope is that connection will create change.

Doug McAbee was born and raised in Spartanburg, SC on January 4, 1972. He earned his MFA at Winthrop University and works as Associate Professor of Art at Lander University in Greenwood, SC. He lives out in the middle of nowhere with his family and their dogs and he creates drawings and sculptures when he’s not teaching.  

He was also raised by wolves.