Peripheral vision operates far from the center of focus, perceptively fabricating a suspended idea of reality. In this place, spatial and conceptual definition is in a constant state of flux. It is pulled and torqued between fixed points of awareness and unmarked territory, and morphs into new and highly saturated terrain that suggests an endless supply of potential directions in which to move.

Accessing the peripheral with a sense of clarity, the 2015 MFA students of UCSB have become both critical of, and reliant upon, the geographical proximity to Los Angeles, employing multi-faceted means of orientating themselves amongst the constantly shifting territorial centers and edges. Mystical Absolutes centers on the suspended places and objects located somewhere between fixed and unfixed, real and unreal, place and placelessness.

This exhibition, and the work of Emily C. Thomas, have been partially supported by funding from the Interdisciplinary Humanities Center (IHC), UC Santa Barbara.