February 2, 2024 First Friday with Megan DeCino

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I make two kinds of art: for myself, and for other people.

The art I make for myself — paintings and mixed media pieces — come from a place of uneasiness and isolation. I dwell on worst case scenarios: violent breakups, car crashes, bloody accidents. Sometimes the lonely characters I create are silly or absurd in their nightmarish realities. I enjoy straddling the line between comedy and horror.

The art I make for other people — cards and valentines — are my light hearted, whimsical tokens of love. I cut and collage each one with the recipient in mind — a tiny altar devoted to them. I send them in homemade envelopes all across the world to friends, mentors, and sometimes strangers from the internet.

The dichotomy in my work is a reflection of my heart — full, optimistic, and willing to be broken over and over. Magically regenerating, Valentine’s Day after Valentine’s Day. I paint to put form to my angst and loneliness, and I make cards in an attempt to connect and send love in physical form." - Megan DeCino

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