SANTA MONICA

Any show called “White Work” calls up monochromatic, blanched abstractions occupying one of two poles: transcendental ruminations or strict formalistic exercises (and we pray we can tell the difference). This group show gives us a little of each. Enervated sculpture/canvas combinations by Jean St. Pierre represent the spiritualists. German artist Reinhard Voigt champions the primary shape camp. In this show, however, “whiteness” is coincidental or incidental to disparate and often muddled artistic concerns.

George Ketterl’s highly effective shaped canvas combines quasi-scientific and metaphysical symbols and poetic phrases inscribed right into the thick white paint with Renaissance nudes who look like they are experiencing contemporary Angst . Two small lyrical canvases by Carol Kaufman use a thin white wash to veil undecipherable calligraphy. John Meyer’s white rectangles almost pull off that ineffable presence that marks most dynamic abstract art.

Other talented artists represented with bland selections include Cherie Raciti and Greg Colson. (Angles Gallery, 2230 Main St., to Sept. 12.)