Collage Artist Mike Ragusa Joins Austin Art Space

Austin, TX, May 24, 2010 --(PR.com)-- The Austin Art Space artists-in-residence roster continues to evolve with collage artist Mike Ragusa taking studio space in the cooperative. The ten resident artists represent a wide range of mediums including sculpture, pastels, oils, acrylic, photography, mixed media, and now, collage.

Mike Ragusa studied film at the University of Texas at Austin. Over the years he has been involved various forms of artistic expression including pencil and ink drawings, paints, graphic design and motion picture production. His scenic paper collages reveal his interests in theatrical art and movies. Set against a black background, scenes or actions are like bright movie images in a dark theater. His intricate work is arresting and thought-provoking.

Mr. Ragusa said, “From my first visit to Austin Art Space, I was impressed with the spirit and the talent of the place. In re-entering the Austin art scene, I wanted a space that would not only give me the opportunity to exhibit my artwork, but also would lend the atmosphere of an art community that I believe is important in fostering the drive and inspiration to create new work. Now that I’m part of Austin Art Space, I can feel the effects.” Patrons can follow Mr. Ragusa at his blog: http://collagemr.blogspot.com.

Valerie Walden, director of Austin Art Space commented, “We’re excited to have Mike as part of the group. His work is unlike any in the gallery. And, his unique perspective contributes to making Austin Art Space such an interesting and distinctive venue. Our charge is to encourage emerging and established artists to create, collaborate and present their work. Mike fulfills that mission in spades.”

Ms. Walden continued, “Since we opened in November 2008, Austin Art Space has hosted 21 separate exhibitions including five juried shows. And, we have showcased over 100 different artists from all over Texas, and as far away as New York, Alaska, France and New Zealand.”

New work by Mike Ragusa will be featured in the special resident artists’ exhibit, “Artful Designs,” May 24-30, 2010. The show also includes new artists-in-residence Cindy Debold, Orion Knox and Trish Nedry.

The next juried exhibition on Austin Art Space’s schedule is the 2nd Annual “What Texas Means to Me” Awards Show July 2 – August 28, 2010. This year’s juror is well-known Austin artist Phillip Wade. The show is expected to present a broad exposition on Texas, literally and figuratively, and encompass a range of interpretations and artistic styles. Over 300 people attended last year’s opening.

About the Artists

The resident artists at Austin Art Space Gallery & Studios are:
Nikki Atkinson, www.nkart.us
Cindy Debold, www.cindydebold.com
Jan Knox, www.JanKnox.com
Orion Knox, photosbyorionk@live.com
Trish Nedry, www.trishnedryimages.com
Mike Ragusa, www.collagemr.blogspot.com
Marilyn Rea Nasky, www.lightwithinstudios.com
Terry Starnes, www.terrystarnes.com
Valerie Walden, www.WaldenArt.com
Debbie Willhite, dwillhite@austin.rr.com

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Austin Art Space
Kirk Walden
512-771-2868
www.austinartspace.com
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