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Next to the Wild: The Seen and the Discovered


  • Athens Cultural Center 24 Second Street Athens, NY 12015 United States (map)

Artists Mary Ann Strandell and Michael Rees are united by marriage and their shared vocation. Pushing beyond conventional norms, they enjoy thematic connections that explore the notion of "the wild." The artists approach this concept from distinct perspectives coupled with advanced technologies such as rapid prototyping, lenticular printing, and augmented reality to bring their artistic visions into discovery.

 Michael Rees's artistic journey takes a profoundly personal turn as he navigates the terrain of the body, drawing inspiration from his battle with cancer. Crafted through computer-generated imagery and advanced programming, this intensely personal narrative employs détournement to challenge viewers' perceptions. Augmented reality elements further blur the boundaries between the real and the imagined, navigating the intricate balance between control and wildness.  This exploration of the imagination suggests that despite adversity, there’s potential for growth and opportunity, fostering a sense of connection and empathy.

Mary Ann Strandell's art is a captivating fusion of traditional and digital mediums, a unique approach that piques curiosity. Her works in Next To The Wildplein air paintings and 3D lenticular print installation–pay homage to the pioneering women in the Hudson River School and Georgia O’Keefe, who forged an enduring connection to the landscape at Lake George. These works honor the past and spark a vibrant dialogue with the present, envisioning the wild as existing in a natural state: untamed and untethered.

First Friday Reception: 6/7, 5 - 7pm

Artist Talk: 7/19, 6 - 7pm

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May 3

Artistic Explorations

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June 7

First Friday: Pride Edition!