Merge @ Ayden

Ayden gallery's first show of the new year kicked off Friday the 8th with Merge. 

Over a dozen artists, local and international and a packed gallery several times over. For many of the artists, this was their first showing in Ayden and even Vancouver. It was refreshing to see new work on the wall and some new faces to the Ayden.

Among the first time artists at Ayden is Victoria artist, Matt Andres. Matt's art career has recently been kicked into OD, and can be found at some upcoming shows with El Kartel and Phillip's Brewing Co.

The awesome presence of Peeta's (Italy) work was undeniable. His 3-D style and colour knowledge is so well defined in all of his pieces.  Word is that he will be kicking around Vancouver for a while so we are sure to get another chance at seeing his work on a larger scale.

Iconic images by Jeff Boyes

Kristian Adam's Num Nums

(detail) Jeff Dywelska

Brilliant works of Jesse Early. These pieces are all painted on used tea bags and sold for $100 each. 

Nicholas Tay

Mason Grey

Adam Lupton

Noemi Kozikowska

William Chad Willsie

It's easy to say that the best part of this show was all the new artists featured. Not to say that the usual crew that hangs here is getting old, it's just nice to see new works and new faces. The art scene in Vancouver is not slowing down at all and from what I can see, it is getting more grass roots with more diverse shows and in more creative spaces. Even Ayden has changed it up a little by bringing the bar out front and bringing in new musical talent like vocal seductress,  Erica Dee.

Having said that, their next show is with star studded resident artists; Camilla d'Errico, Ben Tour, Lani Imre, Peter Taylor and The Dark. If you are saving up for new art this year, guaranteed you will find what you are looking for at this show.