(San Diego, July 8, 2008) — Device, Volume 1: Fantastic Contraption celebrates the genius of invention and ingenuity with a showcase of works from an international roster of artists including—H.R. Giger, Ashley Wood, Stéphane Halleux, Viktor Koen, Christopher Conte, Gregory Brotherton, Mike Libby, Nemo Gould, and many others.
Accompanying the book’s release is an exhibition of these “fantastic contraptions” at the Device Gallery in La Jolla, California, running from July 19 – September 2. The exhibition, much like the book, will present a remarkable collection of artwork thematically exploring the relation of man and nature to machine.
“Fantastic Contraption is as much as an experience as it is an exhibition and sets the tone for the unique aesthetic of the Device Gallery says gallery co-owner Amy Brotherton. It’s like being transported in time to Leonardi Da Vinci’s workshop and while the work cannot easily be defined by a genre or medium, the sheer genius is undeniable.”
The tie binding this international ensemble of artists is a common interest in the “fantastic.” Mike Libby, for example, mixes “science fact with science fiction.” His featured work customizes real insects with antique watch parts and electronic components, creating Kafka-esque creatures that come in many different colors, shapes and sizes.
Another artist’s work on show is that of internationally acclaimed illustrator, concept designer and comic book artist Ashley Wood is also featured in Device, Volume 1. Ashley, who lives in Australia, has worked for most major publishing and entertainment companies and his illustrations have appeared in books, movies, magazines, comics, television and video games.
Greg Brotherton has constructed a “Migraine Machine” from wood and steel. He also builds giant robots, atomic weapons or so-called “Brotron death rays,” and designed much of Device, Volume 1. Like most of the other featured artists in the book, Brotherton has worked across many different media forms, and was formerly a commercial designer and illustrator for movies and comic books, before returning to pursue his own art fulltime, and opening La Jolla’s Device Gallery with his partner Amy Brotherton earlier this year. See www.devicegallery.com for further information.
TPB • FC • 120 pages • 8-1/2” x 11” • $19.99 • ISBN: 978-1-60010-326-1
 Device SC Vol. 01 |
