The underexposed and underfunded marine exploration team of Dr. Lois Silverman and Master Clark Turner have found themselves submerged in the depths of a quandary. While searching for the rumored origin of the mermen, they were swept away by a mighty and cunning summer storm. Tossed into the drink, our explorers find themselves sucked downward to unfathomable fathoms where the team is transported out of their comfort zones of dry land and scientific method; and whirled into an alternate dimension in which they are surrounded by geometric glaciers, fluorescent fish and mad mermanimals. In this show, Megan Sullivan and Derek Toomes depict images of the heroic duo and their experiences as they try to find their way back home… but not without a Puppy-Guppy.
This is a whale of a tale… with a tail!
Artist Bio: Derek Toomes website
Derek Toomes is an artist currently based in Raleigh, NC. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from UNCG in 2004 and has since been active in the art community. Inspired by graffiti, skateboarding culture, and urban landscapes, Derek Toomes has combined these influences into his own personal technique and style. He often mimics street art and it’s transience but adds a touch of the urbane, which allows his work to communicate a sense of culture while, at the same time, commenting on that culture.
Having spent an extended time in Los Angeles, Derek’s work is also influenced by Latino art. He often uses richer textures, more luxurious colors, and more ornamental, hand-drawn lettering, which both compliment and provide a stark contrast to his grittier, more urban techniques. He works with a number of mediums from aerosol paint, marker, wheat paste, and acrylic on conventional sized canvases, to large installations that often incorporate video elements.
Derek’s work has been featured in various progressive art shows, and he has been invited to work on an array of collaborative art projects throughout Northern America.
Artist Bio: Megan Sullivan website
Using disjointed narrative and off-beat humor, Megan Sullivan chooses images from internet research, her immediate surroundings and chance encounters to communicate her ideas. Her method often involves a variety of fiber processes to stitch together the ham-fisted jokes and frayed materials into one final punch line.
Megan earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and her Master of Fine Arts in Sculpture from Cranbrook Academy of Art, Bloomfield Hills, MI. Her work has been exhibited in numerous exhibitions, including at the Jack Hanley Gallery, NY, NY; AVA, Chattanooga, TN; Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, PA; and locally at Lump Gallery.