Discover "The Naturalness of Strange Things: Abbey Messmer and Bill Dambrova"

PHOENIX - March 7, 2016 - PRLog -- Shade Projects is proud to present The Naturalness of Strange Things: Abbey Messmer and Bill Dambrova,showcasing a fascinating joint exhibition in Shade Gallery. Both artists have been "Inspired by "strange things" over the years which is probably why we like each others work and want to show together." This exhibition will focus on these "strange things", such as parasites, exotic ocean creatures, abnormalities in biological forms, mutations, altered states of consciousness, etc. connecting these two artists work together. "We are excited to exhibit such a unique combination of artists creating an unforgettable exhibition of vibrant, bold and diverse paintings and mixed media sculpture", states Shade Projects Curator, Nicole Royse.

Dambrova was formally trained and has a Bachelors of Arts from Arizona State University in Studio Art, as well as a career as an exhibition designer working with a variety of fascinating museums and centers handling art, artifacts, and biology. His artwork engages the senses, utilizing organic lines, a bold color palette, and a variety of materials including oil, acrylic and spray paint. When asked about his work Dambrova stated "Working mostly from memory I attempt to simulate processes observed in nature by creating in a series of spontaneous interactions of what I call "generation and decay".

Messmer was formally trained in the arts receiving her Bachelors of Fine Arts in Painting and Drawing from University of North Texas. She is a former member of Eye Lounge Artist Collective in addition to maintaining a studio and gallery space on Grand called The Lodge. Messmer creates stunning paintings that are primarily oil on canvas, inspired by water utilizing under water digital photography of figures she has taken. When asked about her work Messmer states "I use water as a lens to see another perspective, a distorted reality or talk about the shifting perception of self and others that happens on a daily basis because of our physical and mental environments."

Dambrova and Messmer have both received the prestigious Contemporary Forum Award and Artist Grant giving them the incredible opportunity of exhibiting at the Phoenix Art Museum. Both artists have exhibited at a variety of galleries across the valley including Eye Lounge Gallery, Frontal Lobe Gallery, Shemer Art Center and Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, just to name few. Their artwork has been featured in numerous publications both online and in print including Phoenix New Times, AZFoothillsMag, Arizona Republic and many more.

The monOrchid and Shade Projects curator, Nicole Royse will host the Opening Receptions on First Friday, April 1st, 2016 from 6-10pm. The closing reception will be on Thursday, April 14th, 2016. The Naturalness of Strange Things: Abbey Messemer and Bill Dambrova will be on display in Shade Gallery at the monOrchid from April 1^st until April 24^th, 2016.Please visit our website for more information at monorchid.com and all exhibition inquiries please contact Shade Projects Curator, Nicole Royse.