February 4 - March 2, 2023
From Archway Gallery:
“Archway Gallery presents Shaped by Discovery, featuring new paintings by Tracey Meyer, on view from February 4 – March 2, 2023. The artist will be present at the gallery to visit with guests during the opening reception from 5 – 8 p.m. on Saturday, February 4, 2023. There will be an Artist Talk at 6:30 p.m., and a Closing Event on Sunday, February 26, 3 – 5 p.m.
In Shaped by Discovery, Tracey Meyer returns to her love of hard-edged shapes. This exhibition contains works which employ various abstract optical elements, which Meyer uses as a reminder of what we can learn when we take a closer look. Each work asks the viewer to challenge and re-assess the initial perceptions that the piece evokes in them. “The last few years have been challenging,” Meyer says, “but they have also presented opportunities – to learn more about ourselves and others, and to re-examine some of our beliefs and attitudes, both individually and as a society.” Meyer invites us into a conversation of discovery. How can I perceive things in a different way?
For Meyer, it has meant reconsidering her beliefs, and questioning why she believes what she does. It has meant really listening to others and accepting the discomfort of having her belief systems challenged. For example, she had never fully realized the entrenched social and economic systems that serve to actively disadvantage people of color. Nor did she appreciate the burden her use of plastics placed on the planet, even though she is a devoted recycler. Meyer now avoids using plastics wherever possible. Tracey Meyer’s journey of discovery has caused her to reassess her own place in the world, and humankind’s place in the life of this planet.
Meyer would like to suggest that now it is more important than ever to be observant and to try to develop new understandings and insights. Looking closely at something with an open mind to both observation and interpretation helps us to avoid assumptions and stereotypes. “Optical Art is a wonderful way to encourage us to take a second look,” says Meyer. “It’s a metaphor for how I, myself, want to approach and move through the world. I invite you to come along with me and be shaped by discovery!”
Tracey Meyer has always been making things. She started off making beautiful pies in her garden and then when taught how to crochet she made scarves and hats for her whole family. Meyer was immersed in craft, particularly at school and was head of the Pottery Room in year 12. Meyer studied Art History in college and studied art at MFAH’s Glasssell School of Art, where she received her Certificate of Art in Painting and Sculpture. Meyer loves to learn and is constantly taking classes wherever she is. Whether painting or sculpting, Meyer is always working with shapes. She loves creating complex designs from simple forms, and prides herself on her pristine edges and complex colors. Meyer cares deeply for the Earth and its future. Her works usually touch upon social issues that are relevant to our moment: pollution, racism, immigration, and over-population to name a few. Shaped by Discovery is Meyer’s fourth solo show, and her second at Archway Gallery. Her work is also featured in three Public Art projects in Houston, Sugar Land, and Corpus Christi.”
Reception: February 4, 2023 | 5–8 pm
2305-A Dunlavy
Houston, 77006 TX
(713) 522-2409
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