The Fantastical Imagination in “Chapter One” @ Brea Gallery

11 Feb The Fantastical Imagination in “Chapter One” @ Brea Gallery

The Brea Art Gallery is a small, distinct gallery that is often overlooked; however, its current exhibition, “Chapter One,” is a reminder that it is a staple of Orange County. An inviting display of imaginative multimedia artworks can be seen from the glass outside. What lies inside is an arena of fantasy and storybook beginnings.

The exhibition’s central theme is tying together the importance of imagination and narrative-based art, which shows through its display of works from many different types of mediums. Visitors who come to the show are greeted by the works of Stephanie Bayles and Kendra Binney. Faux ivy leaf vines line the ceiling of the show’s entrance, which added to the depth of world-building in each of the artists’ pieces.

Bayles and Binney’s work were the stars of the exhibit’s entrance because they contrasted creative ideas so well. Bayles’ piece, Search, depicts small ghosts wandering above the trees of a dark woodland area. It was created using photography and digital illustration. The dark, brooding style of the piece is a visual feast that makes you wonder if such creatures could exist in reality.

Binney’s work was a kaleidoscope of colorful comics that were reminiscent of Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events. She had mastered the idea of creating storyboards that could stand alone as a piece of art. Binney’s Procreate comic Birdsong is one such example of that. This piece tells the tale of a man who is searching for his long-lost love. The whimsical details in the characters and the world in which they live show her skill in visual storytelling.

Apart from art on a canvas, the exhibit also featured props from the children’s TV show Yo Gabba Gabba! and the clay work of Caroline McFarlane-Watts. Yo Gabba Gabba! is a show acclaimed for its creativity, but “Chapter One” also highlighted the fact that several Southern California artists and musicians worked on the show. Pieces from the set of Yo Gabba Gabba! were lit under a pink fluorescent light that showcased their playful art style.

Although the pieces were from the set of a children’s art show, it was hard not to admire the precision that went behind creating such imperfect little creatures. The figures in the Yo Gabba Gabba! section of the exhibit were a testimony to the fusion of creative minds in Southern California and a nod to the beauty of imperfection.

The clay work of Caroline McFarlane-Watts also brimmed with playful creativity. Her three-dimensional characters were anchored on shelves but seemed to move with fluidity. The shine from the resin that coated her clay creatures glinted under the soft lighting of the exhibit. They were expressive, moody figures made with delicate details.

Eighteen artists showed at the “Chapter One” exhibit. Although this article only mentions three, the other artists’ work also captured the essence of innovation when new and old mediums collide. Angela Deane’s old family photos with small ghosts painted over the people; Emily Hart Wood’s acrylic paintings of magical, abstract scenery; Priscilla Moreno’s Picasso-esque watercolor paintings of women—all of the artists had a unique contribution to the dynamic atmosphere of the show.