Sam Messenger's freehand drawings can be described as lyrically obsessive. Carefully rendered repetitive images are often rule-based (in fact, Messenger's rulers are drawn to exact measurements) or generative. There is a clear sense of control, as the lines often leave the viewer wondering if the pen ever left the page. Some of the works take on a three-dimensionality, such as the spiral above. Straightedge, an exhibition of recent work by Sam Messenger is currently on show at Davidson Contemporary, New York through November 1.

Artist: Sam Messenger
+ sammessenger.com