The New York artist daubed the surfaces of the pillows with earth-colored patches of paint, apparently applied with a round sponge or cloth. The result is a work of both atmosphere and substance. In terms of technique, the painting is on an equal par with object-making. Unquestionably, these pieces, at once a bit sensuous and absurd, constitute a successful merger of painting and sculpture, an achievement for which Hyde has received considerable attention in recent years.

Also on view are examples of more familiar works. Bumper, for example, is a relief painting that sticks some 17 inches out from the wall. Covered with a colorful arrangement of rectangles, the work puns on geometric abstraction as it points the way to a new painterly vocabulary. This exhibition coincides with a show of more of Hyde's recent works and furniture at Patrick Callery, 433 W. 14 St., through Feb. 12.

James Hyde, "Recent Works," Jan. 15-Feb 12, 2000, at Brent Sikkema, 530 W. 22nd Street, New York, N.Y. 10011.

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