June 9 – August 13, 2006
In general terms the exhibition Darkness Ascends is intended to consider dark aspects of the human psyche that seem to be embedded in our consciousness; troubling, disturbing, and evil, perhaps, yet integral to the identity of our species, of who we are. Often said to be in full eclipse at the turn of each century, there are many historical examples of artistic and vernacular expressions that have been inspired by demons personal and external, by dark forces perceived or imagined, or by actual threats to the self or to humanity. What precisely determines the persistent presence of such forces will never be certain although it may be a way to reconcile ourselves with a universe vast with potential and wonder yet seemingly characterized by banal routine, abjection and unspeakable cruelty. Indeed, darkness or evil may be regarded as elements necessary to our existence. Specifically, however, Darkness Ascends is intended to explore the internal and exterior conditions, the tensions and anxieties particular to our current era, adrift as we are in the shadowy twilight of failed Modernist and Western dreams.
Henry B. Benvenuti, Peter Beste, Paul Booth, Robert Boyd, Shary Boyle, Mat Brown, Joe Coleman, Andrea Cooper, François Escalmel, André Ethier, Janieta Eyre, FameFame, Neil Farber, Anthony Goicolea, Sherri Hay, Jay Isaac, Brad Phillips, Ixone Sadaba, Carlos and Jason Sanchez, John Scott, Seth Scriver, Fiona Smyth, Richard Stipl, sunn o))), Scott Treleaven
Curated by David Liss
Opening Reception
Friday June 9, 7 – 10 pm
Programming
Midnight Mass at MOCCA
Saturday June 17, 9 pm – 1 am
