Join us for the opening reception of our September Exhibitions A Girl Names Seattle, an exhibition by Barbara Lane Tharas and Reflections, an exhibition by Braxton Fuller

Barbara Lane Tharas

A Girl Named Seattle is meant to share my own experience having Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) with the hope of creating solidarity and understanding among viewers. The formal elements used throughout the show echo characteristics of BPD such as the relentless repetition of thought loops, the size and intense denseness of emotions, the multimedia flux of self-identity, the attempt of enclosed, finite containment of infinite, erratic, ever-moving parts, ultimately forcing perpetual forgetfulness and compartmentalization. Finally, it takes time and effort to read through the zine in order to learn more about the main character. By doing this the viewer can find resolve in her story is representative of the constant work it takes to live inside a body that operates among the symptoms of BPD.

Barbara Lane Tharas (they/them) is an artist living and working in Emporia, Kansas. Tharas received their Bachelor of Fine Arts from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in 2016. They have exhibited nationally over the last eight years, including five solo exhibitions and numerous juried exhibitions. Tharas creates work that is motivated through sequences such as comics, animation, and printmaking. They use printmaking and comicing as a way to create work that utilizes humor to critique socially stigmatized bodies, mental health, and create an opportunity for solidarity. Laughter is a tool for overcoming shame, which is Tharas’ most significant motivation when creating art.

Braxton Fuller

Braxton Fuller is an American contemporary artist (b. 1992), based out of Kansas City, Missouri. With a unique artistic journey that began as a poetry writer, he has since evolved into a creator of thought-provoking text and symbolism art. Braxton's innate ability to express himself through language gradually led him to explore the visual realm, where he discovered the power of symbols in enhancing his artistic expression.

While there is no direct translation for the symbolism work he employs, Braxton's intention is to evoke genuine emotions within the viewer, encouraging them to deeply experience the present moment. Each artwork represents a significant period in his life, serving as a visual conduit through which he communicates his personal journey and emotions. Through the use of various mediums, Braxton's bold symbols and wity text work serve as a constant reminder of the importance of effective communication in our lives.

At present, Braxton has shifted his focus back to text-based artwork, leveraging his experience and knowledge to make a profound impact in the art world.

Braxton's artistic journey serves as a testament to the power of self-discovery and the infinite possibilities that lie within the intersection of language and visual expression. Through his art, he not only reflects his personal experiences but also invites others to explore the depths of their own emotions, fostering a sense of shared understanding and connection in a world often challenged by communication barriers.