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JCC displays Kovach’s ‘psychotic symbolism’

Boardman artist presents new theory within his own pieces

The work of Boardman artist George Kovach is featured in an exhibition at Jewish Community Center of Youngstown's Thomases Family Endowment Art Gallery.

The exhibit, "The Theory of Artistic Relativity," features work that the artist describes as psychotic symbolism. "The Theory of Artistic Relativity" is the title of a thesis Kovach wrote that attempts to "reverse the course of art" by creating entirely new categories of art never seen or missed before. The first of those categories is called psychotic symbolism, and all of his work is based on this theory.

"'The Theory of Artistic Relativity' was designed to give every artist the ability to create totally unique artwork never seen before," according to Kovach. "The theory's first derivational category of art, 'Psychotic Symbolism,' is the proof that shows the theory works."

Kovach grew up in Campbell and is a 1972 graduate of Campbell Memorial High School. In 1979, he earned a bachelor of fine arts degree and teaching certification from Youngstown State University. His work has been featured in many shows at the Butler Institute of American Art, and he won an honorable mention award at the 82nd National Midyear show for a color pencil drawing.

He frequently creates acrylic or oil paintings. He is most noted for his color pencil drawings that use a special technique to enhance the color of the pencils.

The exhibition runs through December at JCC, 505 Gypsy Lane, and a reception is planned from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday. For more information, go to jcc youngstown.org.