William Boone: “A Man’s House Is His Coffin”

To figure out William Boone’s art, just talk to him. The local artist behind “A Man’s House Is His Coffin” isn’t interested in the abstract. “[Sometimes people] try to conceptualize art to where it takes a huge explanation,” Boone says. “I make art for myself, my friends and people who don’t read a lot of art criticism.” His paintings and drawings, which he says are mostly re-creations of photos he’s taken of friends and pets, have this punk rock, DIY quality. Sure, all art is essentially do-it-yourself, but Boone seems to establish it as a genre with his sincere, simple approach. There’s no pretension involved in Boone’s work — he’s just drawing his life. While that might seem to be too literal, it is nonetheless honest.

“This is a scene from Cops,” he says, pointing to a black-and-white drawing of a man pointing a gun to another man’s face with watercolor painted trees in the background. Another work, St. Peter, is inspired by the crucifixion of the saint. A guy wearing a shirt, pants and socks hangs upside down (like Peter) sans cross.

Another painting of a friend smoking a cigarette is on a wooden panel propped up by a cinder block. Boone says the piece is reminiscent of the launch ramps he used to build as a teen that would get marked on with spray paint or markers. “Somebody could have this in their garage for 15 years [and not even remember it],” he says. “Like relics of youth.” See what else represents Boone’s past and present at the opening today from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Regular viewing hours are noon to 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays. Domy, 1709 Westheimer. Through January 18, 2008. For information, call 713-523-3669 or visit www.domystore.com. Free.
Dec. 14-Jan. 18, 2007