NOW SHOWING: Allison Bamcat, Stephani Inagaki, and Mario Romero

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Stranger Factory…has moved. Unfortunately we were unable to work out new terms at the end of our lease and are currently getting settled in our new location in Algodones, NM (We are directly between Albuquerque and Santa Fe). We are not currently open for scheduled hours, but will begin private appointments and curbside pick-up in the next week or so.

 

 

 We are very excited for our three newest exhibitions that are now online:

Allison Bamcat

Eat The Elephant

“Eat the Elephant is a body of work by surrealist painter Allison Bamcat taking the presence of personal demons and having the courage to fight them. Through the use of vivid, nostalgic colorscapes that harkens back to childhood toys of the 90s, she depicts a selection of mythical creatures from the Encyclopedia of Demonology, each monster a symbol of heavy topics including anorexia, childhood trauma, nightmares, and cult religion. Bamcat is vocal in her support of mental wellness through therapy and self-reflection, and she hopes the viewer can look into what these monsters may symbolize in their own journeys, keeping in mind the secret to healing is gradual and never-ending: “To eat the elephant, one bite at a time.”

Allison Bamcat is a color-obsessed painter living in Los Angeles. Through her use of texture, expression, and vivid color, she seeks to invoke feelings of nostalgia, magic, intensity, and gravity. The creatures, props and plants in her paintings serve as avatars for her personal journey. Bamcat works in Acryla gouache with a secondary concentration in large-scale murals and budding love for ceramics.

Stephanie Inagaki

Samsara and the Birth of the Wild Woman

 

“The last couple years have been a period of deep introspection, colored by grief and learning self-love through creating healthy boundaries. And while the whole world is in a chaotic, unknowing state, much self-examination is happening on a collective level. Within that, my contemplation has evolved into learning self respect. My life has had poignant moments of death, both physical and metaphorical, but through each of these experiences I’ve found new life, happiness, and growth.”

 

Stephanie Inagaki is a Los Angeles based artist whose work explores her personalized interpretations of Japanese mythology and folklore, corvids, familiars, the life/death/life cycle (Samsara), and a joyful splash of humor.

 

Mario Romero

Pull Me Under

“Every memory and dream we have is ultimately obscured. We can recall specific details of a dream and yet we tend to forget the reason behind it all. What was that dream about? What did that dream mean? Dreams, much like vast oceans, pull us deep into depths of the unknown. Sinking into the unknown, we forget time, place, feelings, and thoughts we once had. Captured by watercolor, parts of these fleeting dreams are found. Sometimes, all we have is that one detail, that one feeling to hold onto. This idea of holding onto something that can’t truly be detained is what inspires these deep ocean paintings.”

 

Mario Romero is an emerging New Mexico based artist that primarily uses watercolor to capture his surreal portraits and floating still lifes.

View all work online now at http://www.circusposterus.com/product-category/current-exhibition/

Stranger Factory is moving!

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Hello friends,
We’ve been trying to figure out a way to stay in Nob Hill as we try to endure this pandemic, but we are at the end of our lease and unfortunately have been unable to work out new terms with our landlord. We will need to relocate by the end of August.
The good news…is that we did invest in our own commercial space almost 2 years ago and have been renovating it with the goal to accommodate large events and weekend workshops within the next year. We purchased “Hacienda Vargas” in Algodones, NM, which was being used as a bed and breakfast and events space. It is a 200 year old historic landmark situated on Old Route 66, directly off the highway and the halfway point between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. The goal was to create a large exhibition space/ garden retreat with private suites that could also be utilized by visiting artists. While we were able to get quite a bit done over these last few months, we’re still about a year away from finishing the main building. We are however currently finishing up a large 1900’s farmhouse on the property that we had been using as a guest house for visiting artists. We plan to re-open the gallery with installations in this location later this month and focus on virtual shows and private local appointments until the larger space is completed next year.
Thank you so much for the ongoing support; we hope to rebuild stronger. We loved being in Nob Hill for almost 10 years, but we’re ready to move on to the next chapter.❤️

Now showing at Stranger Factory: Ally Burke and Bruce Parker

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Please join us for our latest exhibitions:
Ally Burke: Phantom Phases
&
Bruce Parker: Whatever Happened
to Truman Lighthouse?
Available for online purchase here

Phantom Phases with Ally Burke
Ally Burke’s newest body of work, “Phantom Phases,” contrasts dark, surrealist portraiture with vibrant, symbolic elements of life and reflection. Her subjects challenge the traditional roles of gender and conformity along with documenting the fleeting moment, reminiscent of a somewhat restrained, rebelliously imagined school portrait.

The series was produced while the Tennessee based artist was feeling stuck in a strange place; one where it seems like time has stopped while simultaneously moving too fast. Through the journey of creation, Burke felt as though she were falling into repetitive cycles while also trying to move on to something new. Each piece is an experiment all its own, with bright colors, contrasting the darkness in exploration of personal symbols of grief and change.

Whatever Happened to Truman Lighthouse?
with Bruce Parker
Bruce Parker’s newest series “Whatever Happened to Truman Lighthouse?” introduces his asymmetric hero and his seemingly endless parade of other identities, along with friends, allies, loves, and enemies from his many thrilling adventures.
Parker’s work is narrative; his characters ranging from human, animal, something in between or further beyond. Each archetype is a chaotic, euphoric, light-hearted, nostalgic trip, littered with occasional familiar characters, brands, and products – both past and present.

Now Showing! Invisible Monsters by Mike Egan

Stranger Factory is pleased to announce:

Invisible Monsters, a new solo exhibition by contemporary painter, Mike Egan.
Available NOW for online purchase!

Mike Egan is known for works that explore life and death and the thin veil between the two, expressed in bold lines and color. His new body of work, produced while under self-quarantine, is an exquisite survey and summary of the human condition during these Pandemic Times.
Egan received a degree in Fine Art from Edinboro University and his work is influenced by his educational emphasis on block printing, early appreciation of traditional and prison-style tattoo design, and later experience as a funeral director.
Invisible Monsters and Midnight: Summer Encore are currently on display and available for individual or small group viewings, by appointment only.

You can view  and purchase the entire show online here.

Midnight with David Santiago this March at Stranger Factory

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March 2020 at Stranger Factory

Midnight with David Santiago
Opening Reception (artist will be in attendance):
Friday, March 6th from 6-8 PM

Solo Exhibition on display March 6 – 29th, 2020
David Santiago is a local figurative artist, known for his large scale work consisting of beautifully layered abstract portraits that contrast graphic lines with boldly structured shapes against soft feminine skin tones, often echoed in wood grains.

March will bring MIdnight, David Santiago’s third solo show at Stranger Factory.

For the artist, this show is a way to revisit the high contrast, black and white style that David first fell in love with when experimenting with charcoal.

His latest pieces, debuting March 6th, force one to get up close and personal with each figure. These dark pieces present an intimate opportunity to seek out the details in someone’s face, as if at night, by the shimmer of moonlight..

We are expecting approximately 15-20 original pieces for Midnight.

Nico Salazar, Sugar Fueled, and New Best Friends II this Feb at Stranger Factory Gallery

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Three news shows this FEBRUARY at Stranger Factory

Nico Salazar: Chicas – solo exhibition

Sugar Fueled: Apurritions – solo exhibition

New Best Friends II – group exhibition

Opening Reception (some artists will be in attendance):
Friday, February 7th from 6-8 PM

Exhibitions on display February 7th – March 1st, 2020

Nico Salazar: Chicas

Nico Salazar of Future Fantasy Delight is an illustrator, muralist, and designer from Santa Fe, NM known for his blend of cute & dangerous imagery, influenced by comics, graffiti art, manga, street culture, and 90s nostalgia. Nico received his BFA in Painting from the Institute of American Indian Arts in 2014

With Chicas we can expect new works from Nico, including screenprints and original paintings showcasing the strength, power, and beauty of the feminine and femme!

Sugar Fueled: Apurritions

The Sugar Fueled world created by Michael Banks is known for big, bright-eyed animals and Stranger Factory is stoked to present his new body of work.

Michael, along with his wife and manager Sarah Banks, run Sugar Fueled clothing based on his character design and his trademark broken star that represents perseverance, set with the goal of making the world a sweeter and happier place.

“Apurritions” will feature 13 original paintings of ghost kittens engaging in spirit communication, reminiscent of old séance invitations, as well as custom spirit boards, planchettes, and pendulums!

New Best Friends II – Group Show

Local artist, screen printer, and musician Karl Deuble did it again and Stranger Factory is proud to present his second curated group show NEW BEST FRIENDS II!

Karl grew up in Belen, NM before moving to Albuquerque to pursue his BFA from the University of New Mexico, which he received in 2006. Inspired by street art, cartoons, music, and cats, Karl uses screen printing, spray paint, acrylic and ink to create his style of characters.

With NEW BEST FRIENDS II, Karl introduces Stranger Factory fans to artists who inspire his work and his vision and make the world a brighter place. This show is sure to be fun-packed and full of colorful character design and juicy illustration!

This year’s participating artists include: Debbies Grahl, Deth P. Sun, Ego, John Van Horn, Karl Deuble, Matt Sinclair, Nekoes, Steve Ehret, and Tripper Dungan

***ALL STRANGER FACTORY EXHIBITIONS
ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC***

Made in New Mexico IV this January at Stranger Factory gallery

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Made in NM IV
Annual Group Exhibition
January 10th – February 2nd
Opening reception: Second Friday January 10th 6-8pm

Stranger Factory is kicking off 2020 with Made in NM IV,
our fourth annual group show, featuring local artists from
throughout the Land of Enchantment!

Many of the artists are expected to attend the opening reception
and we do hope you will join us. Look forward to seeing you there!

This year’s participating artists include: Brandt Peters, David Santiago, Jodie Herrera, Joel Nakamura, Johnpaul Gutierrez, Kathie Olivas, Karl Deuble, Mario Romero, Max Lehman, Nico Salazar, Rene Palomares, Ryan Singer, Sandi Ray Pierce, Stephen Webb, Stephanie Eichelberger, valeri blossom, and more!


Stranger Factory will be open every day until the end of the year!

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Starting today, Stranger Factory will be open every day until the end of the year! We are well stocked with original artwork, hand made crafts, art toys, odd gifts, obscure books, Krampus! and always plenty of the unexpected. Please help support our local gallery and gift shop this holiday season.

Stranger Factory
3411 Central Avenue NE
Albuquerque, NM 87106

http://www.strangerfactory.com

www,circusposterus.com

This December at Stranger Factory: “NATURE SPIRITS” by Emi Takano and Winter Salon IX

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NATURE SPIRITS – Emi Takano solo exhibition
WINTER SALON IX – Annual group exhibition

December 6th – December 29th, 2019
Opening Reception with the artists: Friday, December 6th from 6-9 PM

Eimi Takano is a Tokyo-based artist and toy designer whose work features cute, starry-eyed creatures that encapsulate hidden worlds with misplaced dreams and memories. Her work varies from faux taxidermy soft sculptures with tiny hand cast details, to soft, whispy watercolors that showcase her sentimental character designs.

Winter Salon finishes the year with a bang! Our annual group show is an end of year celebration and features new works from many of our favorite artists from around the globe. This year’s talented line up promises to provide a variety of enticing alternatives for the upcoming gift-giving season including original illustrations, paintings, sculptures, and plush!

This year’s participating artists include: Alex Eckman-Lawn, Allison Bamcat, Horrible Adorables, Ally Burke, Kathie Olivas, Brandt Peters, Andy Sciazko, Angela Oster, Anna Tillett, Aya Kakeda, Bling Squared, Bruce Parker, Caitlin McCarthy, Caitlin McCormack, Calan Ree, Chris Haas, Christin Apodaca, Defective Pudding, droolwool (pictured above), Ivonne Garcia, Jen Musatto, Jeremy Cross, Joe Scarano, Johnpaul Gutierrez, Karl Deuble, Katherine Walsh, Kelly Denato, Mary Siring, Michelle Lynch, Nana Williams, Nora Thompson, Pantovola, Sandi Ray Pierce, Stan Manoukian, Stephan Webb, Sugar Fueled, Uncanny Creatures, Vanessa Ramirez, Weston Brownlee, Yetis and Friends, and more!

November at Stranger Factory: “Siren: 1990” by Phil Noto and Brandt Peters/ “Carry Me” from Sad Salesman

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SIREN: 1999 – A two-person show with Phil Noto and Brandt Peters / CARRY ME – A feature show of new works by Sad Salesman will run from
November 1st – December 1st, 2019

Opening Reception with the artists: Friday, November 1st from 6-8 PM

Siren: 1999 is an exhibition of new works by contemporary narrative artists, Brandt Peters and Phil Noto. Both artists explore strong female characters inspired by science fiction, music, mysteries, and rebellion set through an alternate universe in 1999.

Brandt Peters emerged from the entertainment industry into an internationally recognized and accomplished fine artist, designer, and producer. Often known for his award winning toy designs, Peters is also a mixed media painter and story-teller who centers his work on character design and visual development. His work hearkens back to the earliest days of comics and animation, with a seeming simplicity that hides layers of intricate back story rooted in humor and a strong, empowering narrative voice. He is one of original founders of Circus Posterus and Stranger Factory gallery and works as an Art Director for Meow Wolf in Santa Fe.

Phil Noto is an Eisner nominated American painter, comic book/ concept artist who is known for his work on such titles as Black Widow, Jonah Hex, Uncanny X-Force,and most recently Star Wars (Chewbacca and Shattered Empire). After a 10 year career at Disney Feature Animation, he started to work full-time as an artist for Marvel, DC, Image Comics and Dark Horse, and as well, time in gaming working on such blockbuster hits such as Bioshock. Phil Noto has been a prominent featured artist at Stranger Factory since its opening in 2011.

Carry Me is a show about love. As a parent of two (and soon to be three), Eric Althin, AKA Sad Salesman, has heard the phrase “Carry me!” more than his aging back would like. He has come to understand that it is not just about the literal act of carrying someone, it’s about what we do for those we love and the support we get in return. Everyone needs to be carried at some point in their life and this show helps us celebrate the act.

Sad Salesman, is a Brooklyn based artist and character designer. Eric has been customizing vinyl toys since 2004, and launched his own toy brand ‘Sad Salesman’ in 2017. Prior, he was the co-founder and curator at Bold Hype Gallery. He has also created numerous characters for mobile games and showcases his original sculptures in various exhibitions across the US. In 2018 Eric won the Designer Toy Award for breakthrough artist of the year.

***ALL STRANGER FACTORY EXHIBITIONS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC