Preview: Rick Araluce “The Night Theater” Solo Exhibit @ Rock La Rue Gallery [Seattle]

Via press release:

Roq La Rue is thrilled to present a solo show of new sculptural works by NW based artist Rick Araluce. The recent recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship as well as a show last year at the Smithsonian Museum’s Renwick Gallery, Araluce is known as a master of Trompe l’oeil. Whether working on massive installations or tiny room dioramas (as will be presented in the show) Araluce creates every single component by hand down to the finest detail.

These works contain a Lynchian darkness, enigmatic scenic aftermaths of some inexplicable event that probably didn’t end that well. There is the palpable aura of the uncanny, the supernatural, and the macabre in these works without giving way to the overt grotesque or kitschy shock value. There are sly humorous references scattered throughout however, most notably in the piece “The Death of Marat”- featuring a contemporary run down room with a blood drenched claw foot tub, referencing the 18th century scientist and journalist assassinated in his bath – a scene depicted in the famous painting by Jacques-Louis David.

” Much of my artwork is in the realm of miniatures, little diorama worlds I’ve created that exist unto themselves. Yet, I am becoming known for large interdisciplinary installation works as well. It is a direction I intend to continue to pursue. My installation at Seattle’s Suyama Space, Winter 2012, is what looks to be a chaotic maze of antique plumbing run riot. Upon inspection, however, the viewer might notice that the entire assemblage is created from plastic, wood, and foam, painted and treated to fool the eye; Tromp l’oeil. In all my works, large and small, I strive to create a unique, compelling, and immersive experience for the viewer, whether that experience is contained within an enclosure the size of a jewelry box, or a space as large as a room. Within most all of what I do there is a sense of narrative, be it subtle or obvious, plain or opaque. There is a story: something happened here. Someone inhabited–or inhabits–this space. What have they left behind? What can be inferred from the bits of evidence in view? Some stories are mysterious–a riddle. Others contain evidence of some strange purpose. Still others might seem merely absurd. There is as well poetry, nostalgia, the texture of life. Feeling is crucial; call it emotional resonance. As well, I am fascinated with what is not seen. What lies hidden behind those stained walls? Where do those pipes lead to? What lies just beyond that plain door? These places are often familiar; the walls, doors, windows. And yet you may feel a sense of oddness, of tension, of something impending. Perhaps a drama is imminent. Or is the story ended, with emptiness, dust, and a few scattered clues all that remain?I create from scratch virtually everything within my artwork. Over the years this has fostered an intense connection with materials; their limits, possibilities and potential. This applies to my works in miniature, as well as to my larger works and installation projects. The approach I have chosen is enormously time-consuming, yet is vastly important to the concept, intention, outcome, and physicality of what I create. It’s part of the challenge I’ve set for myself as a maker of things. Clearly, it would be simpler to merely purchase old plumbing fixtures, a door, a window–whatever it might be–from salvage, or miniature items from a dollhouse store, but where would the magic be in that? I have long relied on this approach and these skills to fashion a miniature turned table leg, light bulb, clock case, trim moulding, piece of furniture, cracked and peeling wall–whatever is required to complete the illusion.” – Rick Araluce

Check out preview images for the exhibit below the following event details…

WHAT:

‘The Night Theater’
new miniature works by Rick Araluce

WHEN:

Opening:
Thursday, July 11, 2019
6pm-9pm

WHERE:

Roq La Rue Gallery
705 E Pike St (near Boylston)
Seattle WA 98122 

ADDITIONAL INFO:

Opening is ALL AGES w/NO COVER
Artist will be in attendance
Show on view until Sunday, April 7, 2019
Gallery hours: 12pm – 6 pm Wednesday – Sunday
Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/603434413482707/