In anticipation of the ambitious Three Amigos three-part extravaganza – a series of three separate yet unified solo shows with Dan Colen, Nate Lowman, and Dash Snow at three different yet equally symbolic venues in Rome – Gagosian Gallery attempted to kick things off in advance with a solo from the one artist they represent; Dan Colen.

Entitled Trash, the body of work is a massive departure from the body of work showing concurrently at Rome’s Palazzo Rospigliosi and stays true to its signifier in concept and execution through the incorporation of “real world objects” (ie. trash) onto the canvas in an effort to “expose their latent energies by tapping into their individual histories.” Perhaps another experimental project on the part of the artist to challenge the viewer with the age old question, “Is this art?” By the seemingly insatiable appetite for the New York artist’s work, with the Three Amigos show apparently selling out, the answer is a resounding “yes.” The abstract, color rich works do embody a fervent sense of motion, and the sheer ability to somehow defy gravity and affix a shopping cart and urinal onto canvas is a feat unto itself. Take a closer look for yourself if possible before the show closes on Saturday, October 29th.

Check out more install shots after the jump.

Images courtesy Matteo Piazza / Gagosian Gallery