August techno-based First Thursday features Machination

(Tulsa, OK) Machination, the August Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) showcase and exhibit of local artists will feature a combined exhibit of technology-based performance works, beginning with a reception on Thursday, August 6; the show continues throughout the month.

Machination is a collection of works by Tulsa artists including Michael Christopher, Nick Kountoupis, Michael Benton, Lisa Regan, Paul Timshel and RC Morrison, artists whose work would not be remotely feasible without advanced technologies. The artworks employ a broad range of contemporary tech, including plasma metal cutting, laser cutting and engraving, three-dimensional printing, digital painting, electronic lighting and embedded microprocessors.

These works present a sampler across a broad section of the new materials and techniques of fine art and will feature technology-based performance works.

Michael Benton’s materials are rare woods, and his tools are computer-aided design and computer-controlled fabrication in his expansive Tulsa studio. Benton’s exquisite inlaid wooden containers have found collectors across the globe.

Michael Christopher works first in the computer, designing three-dimensional objects that will be carved and cut from various sheet stock, assembled and then either hand painted or laminated with lacquered printed digital paintings.

Nick Kountoupis’ work represents one of the largest segments of the art tech space, with paintings that manipulate photography using digital painting software. He is a popular denizen of the art festival circuit, with a prolific and colorful output.

Lisa Regan is widely known for metal sculpture crafted of sheet steel in her large Pearl District studio. Regan uses computer-controlled plasma cutting to produce hundreds of production designs, as well as a small number of ingenious masterworks, as seen in this show.

RC Morrison is fascinated by the quality of light coming from light emitting diodes (LEDs), frequently working with acrylic as a medium to express unique effects. In Machination, Morrison exhibits new work employing words incised into the acrylic, in the vein of Jenny Holzer and Ed Ruscha.

Paul Timshel’s many years of working with the exacting details of framing and restoration birthed a desire for a new freedom, as seen in his colorful abstract pieces. Timshel’s works may employ lighting, metals and acrylics, and represent a fearless expression.

The exhibit includes some description of the technologies involved, as well as video of work being realized by fabrication “bots.” Machination is curated by Michael Christopher and Allie Jensen. For information, please contact Christopher at (918) 406-3998 or michael@michaelfire.com.

Machination will be held at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, 621 E. 4th Street in downtown Tulsa, beginning with a reception on Thursday, August 6 from 6-9pm and continuing throughout the month. There will be a door prize drawn of the artist’s work; the show continues throughout the month. For more information, visit www.okeq.org.

Founded by a dedicated group of volunteers in 1980, Oklahomans for Equality/OkEq is Oklahoma’s oldest gay rights organization. From testing for HIV/AIDS and hosting the annual Tulsa Pride and Diversity Celebration to operating the Equality Center and documenting the Tulsa LGBT community’s rich history, OkEq works for social justice and full inclusion for Oklahoma’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) citizens and their allies.

The Gayly – August 3, 2015 @ 7am.