Saturday

Inside Out New works by painter Cheryl Finfrock, and plasma sculptor Michael Pargett

Opening Artist Reception, Sept 15th 6-9pm
Show runs through October 16th, 2007


Cheryl Finfrockinside outinside outinside out

"Inside Out" is the expression of dreams illuminated by an explosion of color. Painter Cheryl Finfrock explores archetypes and dream mythology through psychedelic animal imagery. Her work is a tantalizing escape into the depths of dreams, populated by a highly entertaining and sometimes disturbing array of bizarre creatures. Her powerful use of color makes these images unforgettable.
 
Illuminating the show is the work of plasma sculptor Michael Pargett, who is fascinated by the interactions between high voltage electricity and noble gas mixtures. His glass and plasma sculptures are but one reflection of that fascination. His work "Art Electrique" is a playful combination of geometrically beautiful pieces with a pinch of Meet the Jetsons.
 
Cheryl Finfrock
 
"Dreams inspire my work. Images ranging from public domain icons to archaic glyphs fascinate me.

With high voltage colors I search for a visual language of universal archetypes. The creation and deconstruction of this language occurs through the physical act of painting. In my recent work, color, texture, and layering become the psychology of expression. Fauvism, Expressionism, Abstract Expressionism, and Carl Jung influence me. Specific influences are Edvard Munch, James Ensor, Georges Rouault, Rainer Fetting, the COBRA painters and Jean-Michel Basquiat."

 - Cheryl Finfrock
 
Cheryl Finfrock's paintings are highly recognized in national and international collections and have been featured in several publications and television programs, including CURVE magazine. Recent exhibits include New York City, San Francisco, Berlin, Paris, Copenhagen, Olmouc, and Sophia.
 
Finfrock a trained welder and sculptor, has found her forte in painting. She is a favorite in the collection of the FLOAT owners, and recently left the bay area to live in Austin Texas. Please join us for her return in this, not to be missed event.
www.Cheryl Finfrock.com


Michael Pargett

Michael PargettPlasma art Pargett enjoys the paradox between the high energy that creates the illumination, and the slow, sensual movement of the gas mixtures that can be achieved to present a visual experience that is as compelling as it is hard to describe.  His expressions are at times humorous and at others inspired by a desire to honor the basic elements of the gasses themselves. During the filling portion of the creative process, he attempts to allow the gases themselves to express how they would like to manifest within the glass. “They feel as though they have something to say, if I only knew how to listen consistently” - Michael Pargett

Pargett’s background is in Electrical Engineering, Construction, and Electronics. He has worked in the Film Industry, in Commercial Lighting Design, and in Medical Imaging Equipment Installations. He also creates illuminated sculptures using standard neon tubing. Starting in 1996, he learned neon tube bending from Ron Carlson, at the University of California San Diego Crafts Center. He has also volunteers at The Crucible in Oakland, using his electrical experience to assist in the continuing installation of equipment.