Artistic Synergy

On Friday May 7, the Tucson Botanical Gardens was the setting for an inspired event: the opening of a month-long exhibit of the art of Nick Georgiou and Titus Castanza (founders of the late Works Gallery on Congress Street), accompanied by the delicious offerings of Seven Cups, Tucson's premier tea house. Set against a gorgeous summertime sunset, this artists' reception was a magical combination of inspired art, flavorful teas and great company.

Though their styles and methods are drastically different, there's an unmistakable synergy between these two artists, a fact to which anyone who stepped into their former gallery can attest. Georgiou constructs striking living tableaus - from wall-hung sculptures to life-size animals - out of discarded paper from newspapers and books. Castanza's paintings and drawings are stunningly alive, bringing his unique vision to bear on a wide variety of subjects: trains, guns, still-life and a slew of downtown denizens. When viewed together, the work of these two artists crackles with energy, a sight one should not miss. And the brightly-lit, sunny ambience of the exhibit really highlights the color and texture of the pieces in the exhibit.

The opening also featured a fantastic tea ceremony by Eric Carr of Seven Cups, which illuminated the process of brewing and drinking tea. Having taken part in the ceremony, I can honestly say that I will never look at tea the same way again - especially the Silver Dragon Pearls variety, which inspired Georgiou to create a like-titled work based on the tea.

Since leaving their downtown location, Nick and Titus have continued to bring their unique and amazing artistic visions to life in their new working digs at 44 W. Sixth St., above BICAS. Unfortunately, their new location isn't large enough to act as a gallery, so head over to the Botanical Gardens (2150 N. Alvernon Way) and check out the exhibit - it will only be on display until May 28, but the effect will last much longer. All of the pieces on display are for sale, of course.