Ryan Joseph Gallery is elated to present The Familiar Unknown, a solo exhibition by Miles Toland. This being Miles’ debut solo exhibition in Denver, he has been tirelessly preparing an all-new body of work over the last year for this special occasion.

Miles’ surreal paintings capture the mysterious places we visit between sleeping and waking. He invites the viewer into this liminal space by blending familiar elements of our objective world with ethereal textures and geometric patterns. The mandalas and the organic fluidity of wood grain suggest the subjects’ energy extending beyond their physical bodies and into the realm of spirit. Miles approaches his art as a practice of bringing resistance into resonance, honoring the beauty in decay, and finding wisdom in nature’s forms.

“The Familiar Unknown is about moving in-between worlds and bridging our experiences with uncharted mysteries,” Toland says of the new show. “It is a journey into the self, moving inward through layers of our perception and ultimately towards accepting was is, as it is. This inner journey can stir up a myriad of stories and emotions that cling to our beliefs about who we think we are supposed to be. With the right perception and orientation, our shadow selves can be used as a compass to bring us toward our light. This guides us back toward knowing that we are already whole and complete. Close your eyes, take a deep breath and join me on a journey into The Familiar Unknown.”

Please join the gallery on Saturday, May 14th from 5pm to 11pm for the opening of The Familiar Unknown. The artist will be in attendance, and hosting an artist talk.