The Modbo and S.P.Q.R. present June’s First Friday opening. On Friday, June 5th, 2015 members of the Modbo Collective and guests will present Works on Paper in the Modbo, while “Reciprocity” by Rodney Wood and Brett Andrus premiers at SPQR. The shows will open from 5:30 until midnight on First Friday, and will remain up for viewing on subsequent Friday evenings through June, ending June 26th. The Modbo and SPQR are located at 17b and 17c East Bijou, 80903. More information at themodbo.com or by calling 633-4240 or emailing themodbo@gmail.com
“RECIPROCITY” Statement:
Brett Andrus and Rodney Wood first crossed paths as the result of Rodney’s first solo exhibition of his paintings at an early incarnation of The Modbo gallery. This led to more collaborations over the years as they developed not only a strong business relationship but also one of kindred art passion. After many years of shared art promotion and advocacy along with long-winded conversations/rants, Brett and Rodney found they share many similar opinions and ideals. Interestingly, they have never shown work together. “Reciprocity” has finally put an end to that drought. While their work has media in common, their “style” is quite different. That said, their work is similar in its use of the human form and enigmatic allegory. They both use their paintings to explore the unique and curious world of the human psyche. More mystery and query than answers, their work compels the viewer to interact with the pieces; be that intellectually, emotionally or spiritually. Simply put, Brett Andrus and Rodney Wood are not only art co-conspirators but also inspire each other’s artistic evolution and vision. “Reciprocity” offers an extraordinary opportunity for their work to be in a symbiotic environment that will that will allow others to participate in that magical process.
BIOS:
Rodney Wood’s artistic path? “What a long and strange trip” … it continues to be. As artist, educator, arts advocate/activist, he has worn many hats. His passions have been focused on making art and encouraging others to do so. He has taught art at all levels within various environments and disciplines. He has served on numerous art based boards and steering committees. For years, Rodney was the Director of the Business of Art Center and then the Director of Fine Arts at the State Fair. Currently, he is the founder, director and organizer of the art car festival, ArtoCade, in Trinidad, CO. As an artist, his early focus was on 3D media such as jewelry/metalsmithing and sculpture. Photography has also been an active part of his repertoire. Just over ten years ago, Rodney’s art voice became painting. This shift has resulted in a long list of exhibitions and publications. His reputation has evolved with his work now being on display and collected internationally.
A Colorado native, Brett Andrus studied painting and art history at the Savannah School of Art and Design before returning home to Colorado in 2001. Andrus divides his time between a career in the financial industry, co-ownership (with his wife Lauren) of the award-winning art galleries The Modbo and S.P.Q.R., directing and teaching art classes out of the galleries, working as a musician (in projects that include Waterbear, The Men of Deep Throat, Team Laser Wolf, and Headhum), and producing as a disciplined artist. Over the last fifteen years, Andrus has exhibited his work in Santa Fe, Denver, Atlanta, New York City, New Orleans, Trinidad and Colorado Springs. You can currently also see his work in a solo show at the Mike Wright gallery in Denver.