Otra Vox is pleased to present a solo exhibition by Houston-based artist Christopher Cascio. Optic Pathways plays with themes of obsession, compulsion, and ritual practice through hard-edge abstraction and quilting designs. Color and its transformative effects on the human psyche are paramount. Optic Pathways will be on view July 9-31.

Cascio is deeply interested in color and form and how these seemingly simple elements can affect mood and energy within a viewer. The work combines complex color theory and motifs based on traditional quilting patterns into painted geometric abstraction. Sawtooth waves, portals, stairways, crosses, and pinwheels are made using masking tape and aerosol acrylic paint. Staircases and portals are paired together as a symbol of moving beyond difficult emotions‚ the implied doorways convey a sense of traveling to another space.

The "pinwheel" series is based on a visionary experience the artist had in 2021. Triangles in quilted grids create a feeling of movement on the surface of the paintings as well as in the body of the viewer. The idea of moving up and through is at the crux of this work. For Cascio, painting is a devotional exercise and a form of mental self-care. His studio is a space for meditation and growth. Optic Pathways presents deeply personal and spiritual works that serve as a fountain of healing for those who take the time to look.

Opening Weekend Events:
Artist Reception, Saturday, July 9, 6–9 pm RSVP here
Artist Talk followed by performances, Sunday, July 10, 2 pm

ABOUT CHRISTOPHER CASCIO
Christopher Cascio was born in New Orleans, and lives and works in Houston. He received his BFA at the San Francisco Art Institute and MFA from the University of Houston. Cascio is an Assistant Professor of Studio Art at Sam Houston State University and a part-time consultant at the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, his alma mater in Houston. www.christophercascio.com

ABOUT OTRA VOX
Located in downtown Los Angeles ' Arts District, Otra Vox is a collective space for creative exchange. Through our artist residency, one-on-one artist development program, print shop, and gallery program, we nurture practicing artists and engage the public online and in-person through conversations, collaboration, patronage, and the spirit of community. Learn more at otravox.com.

Otra Vox is located at 1317 Palmetto Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013.

Gallery hours: Saturday–Sunday, 1 pm–5 pm, or by appointment.