Though a small painting by Close's usual standards, Lucas II nevertheless projects what the artist calls the "aggressive and confrontational" aspects of his work. Looking like a modern Jesus gone mad, Lucas's head glows like that of a radioactive saint. Throughout the '80s, Close's art moved toward a looser, more interpretive style that brought the grid (circular in this case) and his painting process into the foreground.		Lucas II (detail at left) 1987 Oil on canvas 36 x 30" Collection of John and Mary Shirley