Having come from far ends of the visual arts spectrum, these works mute the notion of a mandatory illustration of the lone agenda. Nor have they attempted to wrap a dispensable singular idea around pre-existing images for the mere sake of confluence. Ranging from pure abstraction to everyday discarded material, these works reside in color and mordacity, unapologetic for their multi-faceted aspects on the individual or united level. In true mixed media form, they speak of destructive beauty, wastefulness, chicanery, and wistfulness with a keen sense of hope and an undeniable hint of self-defined sarcasm.

Pat Berran builds heavy oil spills that litter Blade Runner-like landscapes. Deep, dark craters threaten one’s existence. This is the end of the world. This isn’t Sunday landscape painting with cobalt blue skies…this is vivid neon light in every color highlighted further still by contrasting dreary greys and browns. Hidden within repulsive lines, shapes, and colors are glimmers of beauty that compete for your attention. It is a rough, untamed landscape with wonders and unashamed dashes of color.

Pete Corrie’s work focuses on life in a world of garbage but sees only possibilities. The quick, piecemeal process by which these objects are made reflects the inherent positivity in reusing cast-off material while never quite overcoming their “trash-topian” environment. Spray painted in clashing colors these assemblages of bricks, newspaper, cigarette boxes, and beaded necklaces stick out like sour thumbs.

Brian Hubble presents paintings and video that blurs the line between reality and imagination by way of humor, trickery and confusing absurdity. Whether it’s planting a goading aerial advertisement or failing to sell art to a group of mechanics, Hubble’s work deceives or plays jokes, many times at the viewer’s expense.

Catherine Vo distills both personal and imposed wishful thought into traditional print. Whether it’s taking inspiration from photographs or imagination, these images are vibrant illustrative renderings exercised in quaint surrealism. They are produced out of the sincerity of a path not chosen, with a comment on personal culture and expectations, enveloped in an optimistic interpretation of what it is like to make the first decision.

Please join us on Thursday, August 7th, 2008 for an opening reception from 5-9pm.