Erin M. Riley: The Invisible Third UTA Artist Space is pleased to announce The Invisible Third from artist Erin M. Riley, which delves into the concealed aspects of self, examining what individuals present to the world, what they see in themselves, and what they hide from and fear confronting. The artist’s meticulously hand-dyed and handloomed large-scale tapestries, depict intimate, erotic, and psychologically raw imagery that reflects upon relationships, memories, fantasies, sexual violence, and trauma. Collaging personal photographs, images sourced from the internet, newspaper clippings, and other ephemera to create her compositions, the Brooklyn-based weaver exposes the range of women’s lived experiences and how trauma weighs on the search for self-identity. Informed by childhood experiences, Riley explores how coping mechanisms lead to patterns of dissociation, tracing a lineage of invisibility through familial structures marked by infidelity, loss, and abuse. Reflecting on fragmented familial relationships, she grapples with a sense of half-hearted belonging and the perpetuation of invisibility into adulthood. Themes of dysfunction within the home, linguistic isolation, and the enduring struggle for visibility permeate Riley’s narrative, culminating in a journey toward confronting fears and embracing the unknown through her artistic practice. The self-portrait is a recurring motif in Riley’s works, which are primarily tapestries. The portraits serve as an exploration and affirmation of her identity, resilience, and relational experiences. Through various objects, imagery, and memories, she aims to convey narratives and dismantle the fear, shame, and insecurities associated with being a woman. While self-exposure is often blamed for violence, Riley strives to create a future where trauma doesn’t define us, emphasizing that safety shouldn’t rest solely on the vulnerable. By using her body in her art, Riley asserts her humanity and challenges viewers to confront their assumptions and narratives about those who assert themselves in this way. - michon sanders: Quiet Contemplation In this exhibition, viewers are invited into a realm of quiet contemplation, where moments of stillness and reflection unfold through the imagery of the figure suspended in time. Each painting captures a moment of pause, devoid of any external context, urging the viewer to join in this collective moment of introversion. Their silhouettes speak volumes, conveying emotions, thoughts, and narratives through subtle gestures and expressions. These figures exist in a state of serenity, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the present moment. In a world filled with noise and distraction, these paintings serve as sanctuaries of calm, offering respite and prompting introspection. Through the absence of surroundings, the figures become focal points, drawing attention to the essence of their being. By stripping away external distractions, I aim to evoke a sense of mindfulness and encourage viewers to delve into their inner worlds. Each painting becomes a mirror, reflecting the viewer’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences, fostering a profound sense of connection and understanding.