This body of work reflects time during the pandemic I spent in involuntary creative isolation. The world was on shutdown as the precious air we breathed was no longer safe. Isolation from our loved-ones was further hidden by the sterile masks that filtered our air and left us faceless. I found a place of refuge in creative purity that allowed me to take off my mask. As a professional artist, this was the first time in my life I was able to retreat to my studio without any distractions of the world tugging at my feet. I bought 1,000 pounds of clay to keep me company. I poured my thoughts into every new creation as I reached deeper into my soul and uncovered new visions that were waiting for the right time to be released. I was also able to reach back in time and refine the graphite patina coloring process I created some 40 years ago and apply it to the work you see in this exhibit. It took all the madness of the world to realize, no matter how crazy and terrible things may seem, there will always be light at the end of the tunnel. We are still healing from our wounds, but we must continue to celebrate life and create something beautiful. - Chukes
Opening Reception: Friday, October 27, 2023 | 5:30 PM
Artist's Talk: Saturday, October 28, 2023 | 2:00 PM
