Mara Cressey is an artist and art instructor based in Bloomington, Indiana. She holds an MFA in Visual Studies from Missouri State University and a BFA in Figurative Studies from Fontbonne University. She has exhibited her work both regionally and nationally. In addition to her exhibitions, Mara has co-curated “The Figure Reclaimed” (2023), an exhibition showcasing the work of Aneka Ingold and Livia Xandermsith at the Carolla Arts Exhibition Center in Springfield, Missouri and has contributed to the College Art Association’s CWA Feminist Interview Project as an interviewee.

Angie’s Underground depicts the events of a fictional house show. Using oil paint, colored pencil, and ballpoint pen, Cressey created large-scale works that feature recurring characters, various narratives, and complex emotions associated with a fictitious evening. The main character is the artist’s alter ego, who exists alongside various characters. The narratives, characters, and text that Cressey incorporates are often influenced by past, real life situations in which she wanted to come across as more self-assured. Her work underscores social analysis, personal reflection, and confidence building.

An opening reception for Angie’s Underground will take place on Friday, October 10 from 5-7 p.m. The exhibition is free and open to the public.