past Show

Urban Blooms at 13FOREST

Big Dig blueprints and urban street scenes burst off the walls at 13FOREST this spring in Nakayama/Spadafora.

The show features multi-layered, stenciled paintings by Kenji Nakayama and nature-infused encaustics by Tracy Spadafora. While drastically different in style, both artists use urban environments as the basis of their work.

Much of Boston-based Nakayama's work is evocative of street art. Combining enamel and hundreds of hand-cut stencils over photographs, Nakayama's abstract cityscapes are edgy but organically beautiful. In other works resembling graffiti he uses layers of pinstriping - similar to car detailing - to create worlds that are both mechanical and botanical. Nakayama, who trained as an engineer in his native Japan and later studied commercial design in the United States, has been shown internationally. His designs also grace the canvas of Converse sneakers.

Tracy Spadafora's finely composed encaustics examine the complex patterns of nature and architecture that form the roots of urban environments. Using either schematic diagrams of the Big Dig or DNA sequencing maps as a starting point, Spadafora creates waxy layers of elegant, whimsical flora that intertwine with the blueprint. The juxtaposition speaks to the spontaneous forms that emerge as nature persists alongside human structures. Spadafora, who earned a BFA at Boston University and an MFA at SUNY New Paltz, has shown in solo and group shows nationally.

In addition to the opening reception, an artist reception for Nakayama/Spadafora will take place on Thursday April 16 from 6-8 pm, coinciding with Capitol Square's 3rd Thursday program of events. The show runs through May 16.