Two sides of One River
by Morton Lichter

Nov 9th – Dec 8th, 2018
Click here for full exhibition.



StatementAt 86 years old, artist Morton Lichter is defying doctors who said his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease would almost undoubtedly slow down his productivity. For Morton, the diagnosis made over a decade ago has only added fuel to continue painting.Press Release
NEW YORK -- Court Tree Gallery proudly presents Two Sides of One River, a sixty-year retrospective from abstract painter Morton Lichter, who at at 85 years old continues his career despite his diagnosis of Parkinson's disease ten years ago.

Lichter’s work dates back to the early 1950s, and has made a statement in every decade since. He began his career in the arts as an actor, studying at the Neighborhood Playhouse with Sanford Meisner, and dance with Martha Graham. In the 1960s and 70s he divided his time between painting and playwriting before shifting full time to painting in the 1980s.

His paintings are in private collections in France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, England, Ireland, the U.S., and Argentina. His most recent exhibition at ART101 in Williamsburg in 2016 was presented with the title, "Arguments Against Life in Slow Motion," a reference to his specific kind of Parkinson’s, which often slows or freezes motor functions. Doctors said his diagnosis would almost undoubtedly slow down his productivity, but Lichter continues to paint on a regular basis, producing two to three new works every month.

The most ready description of Lichter’s work would be abstract, although his paintings span a vast range of styles and genres. He has painted with the heart of a dramatist, and drama is never absent from his paintings throughout all his "periods," from the figurative paintings of the '50s to the present day, which feature abstract representation. Common to all periods are a palate ranging from darkness to light, the mathematics of the line sweeping from geometric squares to swirling circles, and an elusive search to stop time in its tracks.

Lichter is supported by his husband and partner of 56 years, Gordon Rogoff, who is a Professor in the Practice of Dramaturgy and Dramatic Criticism at Yale University. An award-winning dramatist and critic, Rogoff shared an OBIE award with Lichter in 1976 for his direction of Lichter’s play, Old Timers’ Sexual Symphony and other Notes. The two have lived in New York, Massachusetts, Ireland and Italy, writing, painting and teaching drama to generations of young artists.

For his new exhibition, Two Sides of One River, Court Tree Gallery has selected a group paintings that represent different phases of Lichter’s career, beginning with the 1960s and ending with work produced just months ago. This collection demonstrates the evolution of Lichter’s career as an artist, with the use of lines, color and expression growing and changing dramatically over time. They are glimpses into a body of work comprised of over 300 paintings across a sixty year period. This is Lichter’s first show at Court Tree Gallery.
For available works from this exhibiton please email.








Court Tree Collective was established in 2013 by a group of artists and creatives with the primary purpose of representing and supporting the work of emerging and established contemporary artists. Since its opening Court Tree Collective has been a staple to south Brooklyn’s emerging art scene and in a short time has exhibited a number of important exhibitions. In addition they have curated a number of exhibitions at satellite locations throughout the states and abroad.

We are a family-run art gallery specializing in emerging artists to offer a unique and intimate experience for art enthusiasts. Court Tree Collective showcases outsider art, which often defies traditional artistic conventions, alongside works by up-and-coming artists to add depth and diversity to the gallery's offerings. Visitors can expect to encounter raw, authentic expressions of creativity that challenge perceptions and ignite curiosity. By nurturing rising talent and championing unconventional voices, the gallery plays a vital role in fostering a vibrant and inclusive art community.

Our gallery is curated by artists for artists, which fosters a dynamic and supportive environment where creative visionaries can thrive. With firsthand understanding of the artistic process, the curators can showcase works that resonate deeply with both artists and audiences. This curated space celebrates diversity, innovation, and experimentation; it provides a platform for emerging and established artists to connect, collaborate, and showcase their talents. By upholding a community-driven approach to curation, the gallery becomes a vibrant hub for inspiration, dialogue, and artistic exchange.︎

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