Jen Lobo

"The Devil Whale"
10" x 17"
Oil on Wood

The relationship of animals and humans is the recurrent theme of my work. I read about the story of the Devil Whale in a book about early Folklore and Mythical Creatures. According to legend, sailors would anchor on the shore of small island only to have their ship overturned violently when they learn that the island is actually a large whale. In my work, I really like to take the violence out of the situation and show the action of a volatile situation in a very peaceful way. Although the sky is stormy, the ocean is somewhat still and the waves have a sort of ribbonlike aspect to them. I like the idea of retelling these antiquated stories and putting some sort of new spin on them. I also only like the essential elements to be in the composition. I want the paintings to be as simple as possible with only the neccesary details. I am inspired a lot by old natural history texts and illustrations. I really love scientific theories that have long ago been discarded and early accounts of exploration. I want my work to have an element of antiquity presented in modern light.

By Jen Lobo
www.jenlobo.com

A Little about Jen:
Age: 28
Live/Work: I was born in 1980 in Southbay, California, which is a beach community in Los Angeles. I currently live and work in Pasadena, California (LA's neighbor to the east).
Current Shows: I have a show up right now at Project Gallery (projectgalleryla.com) and I also have some pieces in a show at Gallery 1988 SF (gallery1988sf.com). More of my work can be found at jenlobo.com and I keep a blog at jenlobo.blogspot.com.

Crystal Morey

"One Once Loved"
Diptych
12"x 5"x 4"
Stoneware and under glaze

I want to better understand how we experience emotion, our environment, and how those experiences relate to each other.

I have two interests in making: The first is finding a way to better understand myself and others. The second is in using clay as a vehicle to communicate those understandings. I am most fascinated by nuances that can not be explained though words and find more meaning in objects.

My most recent works explore our separation from nature -- the increasingly common feelings of modern life. They're about where our resources come from and how the ideas of survival and purpose have changed. In particular, this piece is about the sadness and anxiety of no longer feeling comfortable in a natural habitat, and the sense of loss that folllows.

By Crystal Morey
www.crystalmorey.com

A Little about Crystal:
Age: 24
live/work: Oakland
Upcoming Shows:
Esteban Sabar
480 23rd Street, Oakland
The opening reception is Nov. 30th
The show will run Nov.20 through Dec.16th

Guerilla Cafe
1620 Shack ave, in Berkeley
The opening reception is Sunday Dec 9 from 4-8pm.
The show will run through Jan 28.