Land through Grid: prints by Becca Chinn anWindow Screen: Artist Statement from Becca Chinn
These images begin to build a framework for discussion about the partitions we encounter daily, that affect our relationship with our natural surroundings. The network of lines covering each colorful photographic image of a sunset or a tree forms a grid. The grid is consistently used to symbolize both physical and abstract screens or filters through which we commonly view such scenes. Physical barriers such as windows can both protect us from harm, and cause harm in the way we become distanced and emotionally apathetic towards the environment. As we are drawn to a window to view the scenery beyond the glass, we are drawn to the image of a beautiful space. Yet, we can never fully occupy this space. Just as the window acts as a physical barrier, the grid over the image acts as a psychological barrier. Though the lattice may correspond in color, the thickness of the line weighs the image down; blocking the viewer’s ability to project one’s self into the space. These prints invite the viewer in for a sublime experience, but push them back out when the full emotional response becomes interrupted. The tension created by that interruption describes the tension between man and nature. As global warming and natural disasters become increasingly dramatic, we are forced to re-evaluate this relationship.

Intricacy: Artist Statement from Michael Winters
This series, called Intricacy, explores the complex ways vines, tree branches, grasses and other natural forms intersect with each other. These overwhelmed compositions somehow, despite and because of their complexity, feel peaceful to me. Multiple views, slightly disjointed edges, parallel visions, and seasonally layered textures are at work here to produce a sense of the rich density everywhere in the supernatural natural world.