Occasionally, a gallery coincides solo exhibitions from artists who work so harmoniously, that together they raise the entire calibre of the visiting experience. When I read that Rachael Bridge and Adam McCarthy would be the latest solo buddies, I knew that Copro Gallery had once again shown their prowess in impeccable curation.
If you somehow haven’t yet come across Rachael Bridge and Adam McCarthy, you are in for a treat. Both artists, well known especially in the dark art circles, excel in their own styles to create bold, unapologetic figurative portraits. However, what makes their works so intriguing is their ability to imbue their creations with an aura of darkness. Every single artwork grabs your attention, beauty and darkness meld. And while this is where their similarities may end, it’s also what makes them a complimentary pair to exhibit together.
If you can, visit their Artist Reception this Saturday May 29, as both artists will also be in attendance!
Rachael Bridge: Under Your Breath. Oil on panel. 
Adam McCarthy: Sigil of Saturn. Oil on Dibond panel.
Rachael Bridge: ‘Sleepwalking’ & Adam McCarthy: ‘Last Call’
COPRO GALLERY
2525 Michigan Ave, #T5, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States | Phone: 310 829 2156
Exhibition Dates: May 29 – June 19, 2021
Artist Reception (both artists will be in attendance): Saturday, May 29 | 2:00pm – 7:00pm
Opening artist reception free and open to the public by RSVP. Masks are required and social distancing is in place (outside area also available) – 20 people admitted at a time.
To receive the collector’s preview, please email Gallery Director, Gary Pressman at coprogallery@live.com or call 310-829-2156.
Rachael Bridge: ‘Sleepwalking’
This latest collection of paintings by Rachael Bridge is one of her strongest body of works to date. The rainbow of bright, strong colours and close-up, photoreal portrayal of her models celebrate an unrepentant fearlessness. These paintings yearn to be seen; lock gazes with one of her misty-eyed portraits and it’s hard to break away. Yet it’s clear that there is vulnerability being laid bare here too. These are not happy, smiling women, but females clearly in the midst of processing a deep well of sentiments.
In her signature style, which admittedly, brings me the most glorious joy – she explores these ideas as if rendering a film still from an artistic piece of cinematography. The effect is powerful. Along with her use of shadow and light, it perfectly illustrates Rachael’s keen eye for compelling composition. Ultimately, these paintings hook you into mesmerising stories where you will never see the ending. And what better art is there than the art that leaves you wanting more?
Psychosis 
Psychosis (framed)
Created right after the COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020, the ‘Sleepwalking’ series marks a turning point for Rachael personally. It is infused with multiple layers of Rachael’s deep-seated emotional baggage, finally pulled free and laid bare. In her own words:
Circumstances compelled me to make some big life changes as well as deal with things from the past. I painted while overcoming some heavy baggage that I’d been carrying around for a long time.
Being isolated from the outside world’s collective madness emboldened me to shift my perspective, like an awakening.
Rachael Bridge
Each painting in ‘Sleepwalking’ is deeply personal. While we will never know the full narratives, Rachael Bridge’s latest series at Copro Gallery is full of a captivating energy, and is not to be missed.
Possessed, oil on panel. 
Paralysis, oil on panel [cropped].
Adam McCarthy: ‘Last Call’
In the other half of Copro Gallery, Adam McCarthy once again brings his badass creations into the limelight. Get ready to enjoy even more gothic wonder, tattoos, and sensual occult symbolism! But don’t think that his artworks are just wonderfully painted eye-candy. His use of oils provides bold colour schemes which further elevate his evocative female powerhouses. And powerhouses they are: comfortable in their own bodies and unafraid of going against the grain of mainstream society, these females ooze confidence, sexuality and power.
This latest series of paintings and charcoal illustrations are a masterfully crafted celebration of the tattooed human form. Furthermore, there’s a true sense of mischievous joy as Adam revels in his metalhead roots, bringing the all-important visual elements of this culture into more mainstream circles.
Cursed, charcoal. 
Cursed II, charcoal.
The works in ‘Last Call’ are incredibly playful and dynamic, the very title of the show itself playing its part. The ‘Last Call’ – the final opportunity to order or experience something – brings forth a spirit of exuberance which we can only truly experience in that special moment when the end is on the horizon. Being aware of that final chance, teetering on the edge of taking the opportunity or not, can light an inner fire. I encourage you to re-live this feeling as you explore his paintings; you may end up seeing them in a new light.
Copro Gallery have a repertoire of some pretty amazing artist receptions. Yet even with certain pandemic-related restrictions in place, I have a feeling that these two artist’s shows will create another night to remember.
Mortician’s Mistress, charcoal. Wicked Still Life, oil on wood panel.
About the gallery:
The gallery, located at Bergamot Arts, is divided into two exhibition spaces, sometimes featuring a single artist but often two or three. Large group exhibitions are also featured often in conjunction with outside curators. In following with its original mission, Copro participates in International Art Fairs and curates outside exhibits to help promote their artists.
Focusing on museum quality installations showcasing emerging artists, Copro Gallery also exhibits many established and master painters. Placing works in private collections throughout the world, Copro strives to assist collectors new and experienced in building the most exciting collections possible.
Copro Gallery Social Media Accounts
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Rachael Bridge Social Media Accounts
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