We are proud to announce the gallery’s first exhibition of photographs by Tim Roda, titled Family Matters. The photographs that culminate in this exhibition examine the relationship between Roda and his son, Ethan. Furthermore, they are metaphorical memories of Roda’s childhood, family history and his relationship with his own father.

The scenes are played out in various studios and locations from Montana, Washington State, New York and Italy. Roda, whose formal training is in Ceramics, makes all of the stage settings for the work. The material used is disposable or reusable, mostly clay, cardboard, gaffer’s tape and other found material. The resulting photographs elaborate the artist’s approach and are presented as objects that the artists declares are “perfect in my mind”. The formal presentation displays rough edges, irregular margins and haphazard tonal range that reflect the quality of the stages.

The images reflect the struggles and joy between father and son. In one image the artist and his young collaborator are dressed in found and home made feminine attire gently touching each other fingertips in front of classic Italian statues. That playful and gentle moment contrasts another image where the son portrays an angry screaming gladiator dragging his father, face to pavement, across a cobblestone street by his handcuffed wrists.

Roda has exhibited internationally in many solo gallery and museum exhibitions. He was a 2008 – 09 recipient of the Fullbright Award to Italy. The artist will be speaking at the gallery October 17th at 3:00.