“The common thread present in all of my work is a joyful playfulness. My work puts the viewer, whatever their age, back in touch with some childhood feelings. I have seen individuals entering my exhibit with family members, obviously not wanting to be there, and within seconds, their attitude changes. Their eyes lighten up and their facial expression is transformed. They are obviously enjoying themselves.

“My paintings are interactive, and require a participation from the viewer. There is a playful inter-action taking place.

“I place cultural icons and other elements of contemporary popular culture into a new context to illustrate thought provoking social, political or cultural issues.

“In my kinetic art, the image changes depending on your relative position to the painting. The gallery visitors are seen playfully walking back and forth in front of the painting to witness the transformations of the image.

“In other paintings, the viewer can physically transform the overall image into a myriad of possibilities.

“My work is extremely detailed, packed with hidden whimsical information that can only reveal itself upon scrutiny.

“Using a bright palette, I paint in acrylic on multi-faceted wood structures.”

— Richard Weiss

Second Saturday Gallery Reception:

May 13, 5pm-8pm

Free admission

Mendocino Art Center hosts a free Second Saturday Artists Reception each month. Enjoy snacks and wine, and meet the exhibiting artists.