Joy Machine is excited to present its upcoming exhibition, titled “And Then There Was Everything,” showcasing the works of talented artists such as Paul S. Briggs, David Cass, Laura Catherwood, Yellena James, Jeremy Miranda, Jeffly Gabriela Molina, and Anna Ortiz. The opening reception for this exhibition will take place on April 18 from 6 to 9 p.m.
The inspiration for “And Then There Was Everything” comes from the opening line of Richard Powers’ novel “The Overstory,” which delves into a complex narrative intertwined with the essence of trees. Each artist in this exhibition explores the theme of reinventing answers from scratch through their unique mediums of painting, ceramic sculpture, and collage. By delving into natural motifs, these artists aim to unearth the recurring messages that resonate within both personal and collective psyches.
One striking piece in the exhibition is Paul Briggs’ leafy vessels, where he utilizes a technique called “hand-turning” to create intricate fronds that adorn the vessel walls. This process not only showcases his skill but also reflects a meditative balance in both his mind and his art.
David Cass, on the other hand, paints undulating waves on various objects like antique tins, matchboxes, and pulleys. His collection of pieces displayed at Joy Machine explores the impact of a changing planet and rising waters, using repurposed containers as metaphors for the limits of adaptation.
Yellena James presents captivating canvases filled with dense ecosystems that stretch from edge to edge. Her delicate and otherworldly environments serve as a meditative exploration of balance and beauty. Laura Catherwood also delves into uncertainty by creating hybrid creatures with fantastical motifs, inviting viewers to ponder life’s mysteries and cycles.
Anna Ortiz’s painting, “Reflexión,” portrays a surreal desert landscape with agave plants under an eclipse reflected on Lake Texcoco. By blending memory and imagination, Ortiz explores ancestral connections and unfulfilled destinies through her art.
Jeremy Miranda and Jeffly Gabriela Molina focus on moments and spaces in their works. Miranda uses light to transform mundane settings into dreamlike landscapes, while Molina incorporates symbols of connection and care, such as butterflies and parrots, to evoke nostalgia and introspection.
“And Then There Was Everything” will be on display from April 18 to June 7, offering viewers a chance to immerse themselves in a world of intricate narratives and thought-provoking art. Don’t miss the opening reception on April 18 and experience the magic of these talented artists firsthand.
