While the actual art space is small, I quickly realized that a fathomless artistic universe was held within NOoSPHERE Arts. Each picture selected, while not clearly connected by any aesthetic style or theme, clearly held layers of complexity that made it difficult to move quickly from one picture to the next. In fact, I found myself glued to the floor more times than not.

This was definitely the case when I was confronted by Bryan A. Moore’s “Writing Machine Marionette.” This figure made of ceramic, walnut, velvet and steel hanging limply by strings with writing utensils tied to its large hands screamed at something within me. Was this me? Was this all writers and artists combined? Are we truly nothing but puppets of heavenly creative forces; slaves to our respective art forms? Is our only earthly mission to act as oracles spreading these messages to all who will listen? More than likely.

Masses of Humanity

One of the most lingering pieces for me was Sol Kjøk’s “Do you know how lucky you are?” Simply done in colored pencil, this piece was mesmerizing. It portayed naked bodies squeezed into balls, or perhaps planets with one lone colored figure holding and orchestrating the entire scene. What is the artist saying here? Are we those masses of humanity? Or are you that lone figure toiling to keep it all together? So many questions, countless riddles and limited time to figure it all out.

Artist Michael Alan with his artwork at the NOoSPHERE opening. Photo: Steph Ziemann

I was delighted to see there was a “bonus” room in the back – an entire space filled with Michael Alan “Alien” artwork shows the viewer the thin line between the human form and artwork. We are in fact, living art. His creations are so intricate there is no way to quickly fly by them without losing out on the whole experience. Squiggles, words, shapes and forms create odd humanistic creatures who are at once alien, human, robotic, but definitely alive. At times I was sure these beings would fly off the wall and start a revolution, but maybe that is just my overactive imagination at play.

A True Norwegian

You won’t be able to pronounce his name, but you will love his artwork. Yngvar Larsen proudly explained that my inability to pronounce his name was testament to his being a “True Norwegian.” I could not help but laugh and quickly felt at ease in his presence. He brought his three children along for the opening festivities and although we were all worlds apart, we quickly found a connection in our shared “odd” names.

Artist Yngvar Larsen with his work. Photo: Steph Ziemann

Out of all the pieces on display, something about Yngvar’s “Logos/Liquefied Economy” stopped me in my tracks. I quickly found the curator and asked her who the artist was and was excited to find he would be in attendance. The moment Yngvar stepped into the room I made my way towards him and asked him what had inspired his piece. He explained, “I take everyday objects and allow the viewer to read it in another way.”  Yngvar showed me his other digital prints comprised of familiar logos, stacked in layers and blown out of scale. It was amazing to see normal household brands in such a different light as there is so much that we overlook during our daily lives. Yngvar has taken on the mission to freeze time and allow us to think more on what we overlook, what we consume and what we allow in our body and minds. This ingenious work, comprised of a layering technique, is just as intricate. Like an onion, we could spend lifetimes deciphering Yngvar’s secret code held within.

Cheers!

It’s impossible to leave this exhibit without having hugged an innocent bystander or knowing one or more strangers names.  There is something about the artists, the artwork or maybe it’s just the confined space that forces viewers to open up and connect with others.  So stop by, let your brain be tickled; free your inhibitions and make some exciting new friends.  Cheers!

• NOoSPHERE Arts – “A House Full of Friends” Group Exhibition – January 4, 2013-February 4, 2013,  Benefit Auction, February 4th 6:30-8:30pm

Article by Haajar “Hajee” Johnson

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