Michael Smith paintings at Art45

Opening today at Art45, Michael Smith’s show of large paintings (“Luminocratic”) is spectacular. The works have a pent-up energy and power that is palpable. The sweeping brushstrokes are beautifully orchestrated — almost choreographed — as if the paintings are the products of a kind of dance. There is a precarious balance to the compositions that is on the edge of chaos, and a dynamic quality to the images that is mesmerizing. Several capture the churning power of the sea with such force that I could almost taste the salty spray. The exhibition runs until December 12.