"Torn Together" Las Vegas Collage Collective

Las Vegas, known for its lights, casinos, and extravagant entertainment, is also home to a burgeoning artistic community. Among the myriad of talents within this desert city lies a group of artists who have embraced the art of collage as their primary mode of expression. These artists recently came together to showcase their works in the first group show of the Las Vegas Collage Collective, hosted at Available Space Art Projects.

Entitled "Torn Together," this exhibition explores the essence of collage-making, where disparate elements are torn apart and then meticulously reassembled to form something entirely new and unexpected. Drawing inspiration from the alchemical phrase "Solve Et Coagula," the artists delve into the transformative power of bringing fragments together.

The show features a diverse array of 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional works, highlighting the versatility and depth of the collage medium. From intricate paper collages to immersive found object assemblages, each piece offers a unique perspective on the art of combining disparate elements.

Among the featured artists are Carina Arriaga, Jeffrey Bennington Grindley, Jorge Lara, Chad Martinez, John McVay, Laura M. Meyer, JK Russ, and Jim White. Each artist brings their own distinctive style and approach to collage, resulting in a variety of artistic expression.

The themes explored in "Torn Together" are as varied as the artists themselves. From the exploration of paper art and the use of found images to the therapeutic aspects of collage-making and its role in community building, the exhibition delves into the multifaceted nature of this dynamic art form.

The opening reception of the show was a celebration of creativity and collaboration, with attendees marveling at the ingenuity and craftsmanship on display. In addition to the visual artworks, the reception also featured live sound performances, further enhancing the immersive experience of the exhibition.

As visitors meandered through the gallery space, they were invited to ponder the connections between seemingly disparate elements, reflecting on the ways in which collage mirrors the complexities of the human experience. "Torn Together" serves as a testament to the power of art to unite, transform, and inspire—a testament to the boundless possibilities inherent in bringing things together.