"How I Haunt You" Premieres at Push Gallery Oct. 20

The Push Gallery and Skate Shop will host a unique gallery experience beginning Oct. 20, 2006, that features the premiere show of the work of Naaman, an up-and-coming artist who currently lives in Asheville. The gallery exhibit, entitled 'How I Haunt You,'' features a masquerade theme with a bit of performance art mixed in, according to gallery co-owner Rob Sebrell.

The public is invited to participate by wearing the appropriate expressive mask of their choice while viewing the art. Masks are not required to enter, however those who show up without a mask will be able to purchase from a variety of masks to share in the festive experience.

The opening will be held Friday, Oct. 20 from 7 to 11 p.m. Prints of Naaman's work will be on display at the gallery throughout the following month.

Sebrell said that Naaman's body of work consists mainly of pen and ink drawings on paper, adding, "It features subject matter depicted in extremely detailed pointalism and original line styles. Some of the pieces are mixed media consisting of photos, collage, custom and handmade papers, watercolors and paint. Together, these elements make up the rich, layered composition of Naaman's subjective and often abstract vision.

"'How I Haunt You' depicts how our past relationshps with others may influence and shape our image of ourselves, as well as the image that we present outwardly, whether consciously or subconsciously. The profound effect that intimate relations have on our personality leads many of us to create a number of masks we may wear when interacting with others. Such masks may be worn to protect ourselves, or perhaps to appear more sophisticated than the reality beneath, or even to project emotion where there is none -- or vice versa.

"Often we find ourselves appearing and acting in a slightly unnatural manner than our true personality ... or perhaps the mask is actually our true personality. Our experiences and relationships continue to haunt us, forming the masks we wear throughout our lives."

Push Skateshop and Gallery is located at 25 Patton Ave., situated between Pritchard Park and Pack Square, in Downtown Asheville. For details, call 828-225-5509.

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