Myopia…a focused look

A “show” was just a  passing thought one late winter night among unfinished pieces in my new studio space. My new work needed to be shown; Obliq Art had not put on a show in 16 months. I thought of all the good times we had and miss so many of the artists and collectors and just friends who made Obliq Art a regular stop on First Friday…and that thought was sown into the universe that night. “The right people will show up”. “The right space will show up”. Sometimes you have to walk in faith. 

My work was about restoration of wood and about adding  a different dimension to wood. Clear and colorized resins were pour into termite caused borings. Phosphorescent resins casts were added as well as casts with pearlescent powders. Lost Memories was created this past winter. A  termite infested, crooked, twisted and weathered Sycamore slab that spent much time in the Arizona desert sun. A perfect piece to restore and reclaim. Another thought…Lives are like that.

Pete Deise and I have become friends over the last year. He reminds me of the surfer who first surfed Mavericks alone for years-a lonely pioneer living a pioneers life. Who else creates massive steel sculptures in an outdoor studio setting and at 115 degrees?  I’m infatuated with his new work and personally I want to see his work have a larger footprint in downtown Phoenix especially in some of the downtown buildings and projects I am involved with, like the Jackson Street warehouses I am selling. Setting his shows are a little different than hanging paintings in a typical gallery setting, it was fun and challenging putting together this show.

Justin Queal and I have been getting to know each other, its been about 2-3 years. The Myopia show is our first time showing together.  We’ve broke bread, set this show, gave him a lead on a potential commission (which he got)  and spent time together talking about art.  Again another artist that I admire and getting to know him and his lovely artist wife, Abbey. Its a rich life when you have relationships like this. Flourish comes to mind when I think of Justin’s future.

Constance McBride and Cheryl Brandon have been in my consciousness for a while, especially Constance whom I first met at Obliq Art at the Arizona Center. Met Cheryl at the Fred Tieken’s Az 45 show in his gallery in Paradise Valley. Two very distinct ceramic artists with a wonderful following. Great contrast to the large pieces. We are resetting the gallery and their pieces in the space with more room to “breathe” and visible 360 degrees.

Someone asked me, “When are your shows”? I guess the short answer is “When I want”.  Look forward to seeing how Obliq Art evolves. The Myopia show has allowed me and the other artist to experiment in the space.

The show opens again on Third Friday, March 18 at 7 pm and from noon to 5 PM on Saturday. Lots of parking behind the space as well as street and park parking.

New City Studio- 1300 N. Central Ave-across the street from the main Library and adjacent to Margaret Hance Park.