Miscommunications is a series of mixed media, low relief, painted collages and sculptural works, by artist Carla E. Reyes, that evoke archaeological remnants; containing alphabets, messages, and pictorial symbols. The symbols or characters reflected on the surfaces could be undiscovered ancient languages or pictorial systems, secret alphabets of the artist’s invention, or contemporary forms of communication displaced from their original context; creating mystery or new meaning. These works explore the human need and struggle to communicate and self-express, to be understood by others, and to comprehend the world and the mixed messages received; directly or indirectly. Whether it be the need to process the past and the messages left behind in order to understand our existence, or the daily challenges of translating the messages of those who communicate differently—when misunderstood; disorientation, disconnection, and questions of identity, can emerge. These “artifacts” are meant to be discovered by the viewer and trigger the impulse to decode their messages, and experience the unending struggle to comprehend that which may or may not ever be understood…

The works in the series utilize a variety of collage materials including sand, toothpicks, pipe cleaners, dried beans, packaging twine and other household materials encountered every day. The materials are applied in layers and painted with acrylic paints and glazes, sometimes using mica powders to create a shimmering or metallic finish. Works include messages using visual Morse code, cuneiform, pictorial symbols designed by the artist, and three dimensional objects in a variety of media. Custom commissions are also available allowing the collector to choose their own visual language and personalized message.

Carla E. Reyes is a professional fine and decorative artist, exhibiting and selling her artwork in NYC and along the East Coast in commercial galleries, non-profit, and alternative spaces, since 2000. She received her B.F.A. in Restoration and Fine Arts from F.I.T., NYC and is currently pursuing her MA in Art Education at The City College of New York. Carla also works as a decorative interior finisher, theater scenic artist, muralist, and art educator. Carla’s artwork has been featured in a variety of publications and media including The New York Times, The New York Daily News, BBC World News, The Queens Chronicle, and more. Her complete portfolio can be viewed at: http://www.carlaereyes.com

Miscommunications…and other mixed-media musings will feature works from the Miscommunications Series, as well as earlier related artworks that led to its evolution. The exhibition will be on view from September 1 – 28, 2011 at Yashar Gallery. There will be an evening reception with the artist on Thursday, September 1, 2011, from 6:30pm-9:30pm. There will be additional exhibition related events, schedule to be announced. Yashar Gallery is located just minutes from Manhattan in the up-and-coming urban art community of Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and just over the Pulaski Bridge from MOMA’s P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center in Long Island City, Queens. Yashar Gallery opened its doors in April 2010, and hosts monthly rotating exhibitions featuring the professional artists at Brooklyn Art Studios in the Greenpoint Industrial Center.

Visit http://www.brooklynartstudiosnyc.blogspot.com for Yashar Gallery’s exhibition schedule and updates, map/directions, and to learn about the artists of Brooklyn Art Studios.

On View: Thursday, September 1st – Wednesday, September 28th

Opening Reception: Thursday, September 1, 6:30pm-9:30pm

Closing Reception: Friday, September 23, 6:30pm-9:30pm

Viewing Hours: Wednesdays, 10-3pm Or by appointment – 718.801.2809 / [email protected]