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Gay Outlaw's stunning sculptures at CCAS

One of my favorite places to see new art is the Center for Contemporary Art, Sacramento. I’ve come to expect exciting, challenging and thought-provoking selections from them and they never disappoint. Currently on display there is “The Velocity of Ideas”, a predominantly sculptural showcase of works by artist Gay Outlaw.

CCAS aptly describes Gay’s work as “revolving around combining inherent contradictions: sculptures that seem to be constructed of voids…images of holes, reversed, and cast in bronze and glass.” The collection of works in "The Velocity of Ideas", on display until May 15th, is a compelling exploration of space and process.

On first impression, the pieces could seem extremely varied and even disconnected. The left wall is home to mixed media paintings on paper, displayed without frames as if still in the artist's studio. Several sculptures in curious media occupy the main floor, leading up to a fantastic, massive egg-crate-like sculpture heaped up against the wall. Peeking out cheerily from the rear room is a long row of tabletop sculptures combining organic shapes and hard-lined geometry.

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For art lovers who are used to solo shows displaying extremely similar series work, "The Velocity of Ideas" offers a delightful change in the line-up. As stated on CCAS's website, "each piece addresses the flow of the creative process, and the visual associations and internal dialogues reveal that this process of constant development is the actual subject of her work." This summary is helpful in expressing in words what the viewer senses when lingering amidst these otherworldly yet natural forms as their connections begin to unfold in mysterious splendor.

ABOUT THE VENUE

CCAS is a member-supported, non-profit organization dedicated to bringing new and experimental art to Sacramento. Located at 1519 19th St., CCAS serves our community with robust hours, open Tuesday through Sunday from 12-5 pm and later on Second Saturdays. Join their mailing list or become a member to stay informed about new shows.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Gay will be at the center to present a lecture on her work May 14th at 3 pm (free to CCAS members & students, $5 general admission), and the closing reception will be held that same day from 6-9 pm. Visit CCAS before May 15th and check out Gay's website to see more of her work.

Rating for "The Velocity of Ideas" at CCAS:

5

, Sacramento Art Examiner

Marianne Bland, an avid art blogger, is a visual artist in Sacramento. She was the featured artist of the month in both Sacramento365.com [March 2011] and N Magazine [April 2010]. Last year, she completed a daily art challenge, serving up "fresh art & snark" at ArtProject2010.info. Believing that...

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