Fantasy Land

We should probably give Valley House Gallery a standing ovation for bringing Mark Messersmith's work to the locals. Landscapes in art are a yawn for the most part: They teach them to death in school, and generic vistas dominate the "art" section at many a Target and Wal-Mart. Messersmith's landscapes of the South are not at all what most people expect. Stunning panoramas of manors and greenery? Nah. More like an explosion of color depicting native animals and nature against an almost otherworldly backdrop. He's made fantasy art into actual and relatable scenes of America and then kicks your ass while doing so. Prepare to be stunned. Mark Messersmith: Southern Mythology displays at the Valley House Gallery, 6616 Spring Valley Road, through March 15 with a reception for the artist 6 p.m. Friday. For more information, call 972-239-2441 or visit valleyhousegallery.com.
Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Starts: Feb. 15. Continues through March 15, 2008