Stacia Gates

In abstract digital photography, staged photo sets, and surreal acrylic paintings, Stacia Gates shows an eye unusually attuned to unusual visual messaging, narrative weight, and the elusive element of mystery. In both representational and non-representational work Gates begins with a sophisticated composition of shallow and deep planes, intertwined textures, and soaring major lines. In her photography, which often focuses on architectural details, these ingredients manifest as a maze of colors that melt into one another. Gates builds her palette with a steady, realistic hand, but always finds moments within the framework to jolt the viewer with a sharp contrast or beautifully rich hue. In contrast to this gritty immediacy, the paintings portray a mirror world, half-whimsical and half-haunting. Here animals are sentient, backgrounds recede into nothingness, and symbolism dominates the imagery. The connection with the viewer is emotional and thought-provoking, rather than an intuitive visual reaction.

Stacia Gates has exhibited across the American West and has considered art an excellent form of therapy for her entire life. She is the founder of Art Quench Gallery and Magazine.