Beyond Convention showcases the work of eight exceptional artists, John Carter Cash, Shivani Dugar, Hilary Pecis, Hannah Robinett, Monique Rollins, Mark Steele, Shefon Taylor, and Joana Vasconcelos, whose practices disrupt conventional expectations and redefine the boundaries of contemporary artistic expression. Through distinct visual languages and deeply individual approaches to making, these artists bring together creative ingenuity, cultural significance, and technical sophistication. Their work cultivates connection, preserves collective memory, and challenges familiar ways of seeing, offering fresh perspectives on the complexities of the human experience.

Encompassing an eclectic range of media, from meticulously composed still-life prints and sweeping abstract canvases to commanding sculptural works and richly tactile forms, the exhibition reveals the breadth of contemporary artistic inquiry. Each artist draws upon a unique constellation of personal histories, cultural traditions, and lived experiences, translating these influences into compelling visual narratives. Their practices reflect the intricate relationship between individual identity and the broader historical, geographical, and social environments that shape creativity. Joana Vasconcelos transforms familiar domestic objects into sculptural works that bridge private and public life, prompting reflection on women's status, consumer culture, and collective identity. Shefon Taylor's lovingly assembled collages offer glimpses into imagined memories, creating tactile, deeply personal compositions grounded in emotional honesty. The two artists explore the world in distinct, personal ways that reflect the other five artists' individuality in their process.

Beyond the confines of conventional artistic identities, these makers demonstrate the many dimensions of creative life. They are discerning observers, inventive thinkers, devoted caregivers, and accomplished craftspeople, each bringing a disparate sensibility to their work. Their commitment to experimentation is matched by an exacting command of technique, composition, and material, resulting in practices that are as intellectually engaging as they are visually arresting. By presenting these eight artists together, we seek to illuminate the varied circumstances that inform their creativity, recognize the depth of their contributions, and celebrate the expansive possibilities of artistic expression.

-- Curatorial statement by Phoebe Caswell