Go ahead, get closer. It’s totally acceptable, probably necessary, and part of the point if guests are going to be able to fully take in the impact of the art on display in the “Size Matters” exhibition at the Escondido Arts Partnership.
“The show is all about small but powerful works, featuring over 75 pieces across multiple mediums,” said Megan Darrough, juror for the exhibition, on display through Dec. 6. “We received a ton of fantastic submissions, so narrowing it down was tough. The result is a showcase of intriguing, small-scale art with a big impact.”
More than 75 two- and three-dimensional pieces, in varying media, are included in the show—all of them required to come in at 10 inches or less in size. The result is a range of works and perspectives, with the goal of greater intimacy in the art experience.
Darrough, 34, is an artist and illustrator who lives in Carlsbad and has a bachelor’s in fine art from the California College of the Arts in San Francisco. Working in both traditional and digital art forms, her work is also part of the “Size Matters” showing, and she took some time to talk about what she was looking for in selecting submissions, her own contributions to this exhibit, and her affinity for the strange and unique, with a touch of darkness.
Q: Can you talk about the decision to feature much smaller sized works? What kind of experience do you hope this kind of focus will create?
A: Small art pieces bring you in close for a more personal encounter. When we narrow the scale, emotions can expand, proving that size is all about perspective. We hope viewers find themselves immersed, maybe even surprised, by what these tiny pieces make them feel.
Q: What were you looking for as you were selecting artists and artwork for this exhibition? What did you envision for how you wanted this display of works to come together?
A: I look for stories—pieces that spark curiosity, tell a tale, or even raise a question or two. The goal was: “Big Stories” in “little pieces.” I think this show succeeded in capturing diverse narratives in compact forms.
Q: What kind of response have you heard so far from people who’ve visited this exhibition?
A: The feedback has been great! The unison of smaller works creates a harmonious flow, with each piece offering its own mini journey. Katie Werner curated a beautiful and natural visual rhythm that makes exploring each piece effortless and immersive. Viewers are connecting with different works in very personal ways, which has been incredibly rewarding to see.
What I love about Carlsbad
Carlsbad is a breath of fresh air. It has a peaceful vibe with plenty to do, making it the perfect place to let creative ideas flow.
Q: How did you first get started as an artist?
A: I started as soon as I could grip a crayon! Art always felt like a calling, something I naturally did. I later dove into apparel design, which eventually expanded into my current career. Essentially, I’m still doing what I did as a kid, just with a bit more polish and purpose.
Q: What is it about creating art that has continued to resonate with you over the years, to the point of pursuing it professionally?
A: I think, for me, art combines challenge with discovery. I get to balance my inner child’s curiosity with a professional approach, keeping things playful but focused. Social media has also connected me with inspiring people, which has fueled my growth and helped shatter the “starving artist” stereotype.
Q: Is any of your work on display in “Size Matters”?
A: Yes, I created a triptych inspired by “Alice in Wonderland.” It’s a small, five-inch by seven-inch sculpted panel of Alice’s face, as if peering through an illusion of water created with clear resin, further creating distortion of size. Two, one-inch framed eyes surround the piece, creating an interactive moment where the viewer and art make eye contact. The piece is now sold, but is on view throughout the rest of the exhibition.
Q: You say that your work “focuses on things that are strange and unique, a tad dark, full of mysteries…” What does that look like in practice? What are some examples of work you’ve created that illustrate this?
A: My art celebrates the dance of light and dark, creating a space where mystery and curiosity collide. In my illustrations, I leave room for viewers to project their own ideas, so every piece invites a different story from each person.
Q: How are you defining “strange and unique” and “a tad dark”? How did an affinity for the unusual begin for you?
A: Like any healthy child in the ‘90s, I grew up watching Tim Burton’s movies, loved Nickelodeon shows like “Invader Zim” or “Aaahh!!! Real Monsters,” always leaning toward a taste for the dark. Growing up, Halloween was (and continues to be) my favorite holiday. My father also always loved Halloween and ended up turning his hobby into a haunted house business (Dead Time Dreams in San Jose), so I always got to be around that sort of environment. We weren’t exactly “The Addams Family,” but I remember we stored a lot of spooky stuff at the house!
Q: What is it about the strange and mysterious that you feel a connection to that compels you to use it as a source of creative expression?
A: I think it’s a mix of curiosity and the thrill of exploring the unknown. Art gives us a way to peek into things that might otherwise remain hidden.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: One that comes to my mind is, “Watch out for tangents,” from artist Robert Hunt. It’s about keeping your design lines clean and uncluttered. In life, and art, tangents can distract, so it’s helped me keep things focused.
Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find out about you?
A: I’m fluent in Japanese and graduated high school from there. I’m a descendent of the Japanese Murakami Kaizoku-dan, my great-grandmother comes from a line of famous pirates!
Q: Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend.
A: A sunny beach stroll or hike, then a cozy afternoon working on art with a breeze flowing through the window. Or, maybe some down time with a good book by the ocean when I’m looking for inspiration.