Phaze 2 Gallery

ToUgH sHaPeS on view at Shepherd University’s Phaze 2 gallery explores the most basic principles of art and design in relation to two and three dimensional art. More specifically how it shapes our relationship with objects and composition. Brian Truesdale and Mark Cameron both work with geometry in unique and innovative ways – the works [in dialogue with one another] explore how shape can transform a space or guide our perception and experience of an artwork. ToUgH sHaPeS is on view through March 6, 2026 with an opening reception to be held on Tuesday, January 13 from 4 PM to 6 PM. 

Brian Truesdale Artist Bio:
Brian Truesdale first became aware of abstract art as a teenager. Going through books in his high school art classes, the images he saw of Abstract Expressionism were bold and frightening. The sources of passions and nightmares. He was mesmerized, and that fascination led him to take an open studio abstract painting class at a crucial point in his adult life when he sought to channel his emotions and embrace his identity. Brian also had the good fortune at the time to meet several wonderful local artists who helped him to first develop his artistic language.    

Brian spent several years painting and drawing obsessively, soaking up art books and visiting museums. He’d wander through the gallery spaces, staring deep into the pieces to decipher their secrets until he had to force himself to leave in a daze of wonder and intimidation.    

Brian’s education has been informal and largely a process of self-searching, probing his mind and feelings. He’s reached a point of confidence in his work where he feels that it’s his own, though the search has only begun.

He’s been fortunate enough to have had 14 solo exhibitions in the past 10 years, and to have his work featured in several group and juried exhibitions throughout the country. Brian was featured in national juried exhibits at the First Street Gallery and Prince Street Gallery in New York as well as the Delaware Contemporary, University of North Carolina at Asheville, and Mary Washington University. Brian’s solo exhibits have been featured at the Arts Club of Washington in DC and the Susquehanna Art Museum in Harrisburg, PA. Brian is an accomplished artist looking to engage with the larger artistic world.

Mark Cameron Artist Bio:
Mark Cameron is a multi-disciplinary artist utilizing painting, printing, wall reliefs, and sculptural objects to explore materiality, color, texture, whimsy, form, scale, and the relation of the body in the making and experiencing of art. Mark uses wood, construction debris, cardboard, acrylic paint, and common materials to create work that is minimal yet expressive. He is interested in how forms behave in space – singularly, with each other, and with the viewer. The objects are often off-kilter, bent, and suggestive. Themes of implied motion, touch, and contrast permeate his work. He uses color to make forms speak louder. He states:

“I  cannot work from a blank canvas.

I enjoy making things – sometimes from scratch, other times from found objects and materials. I like to make things and let them reside in the world.

The work in this exhibit includes objects and sculptures that range from small, table-top size to larger, body size. Some objects are prone, while others are upright. They rest on the floor, on bases, and on pedestals. Some have wheels. Some are agitated and tense. Seams are an emerging idea. The sculptures occupy the room along with the exhibit visitor. They are characters. A few are loud; others are quiet.”