Explore hidden influences on public safety with artist Robert Vargas’ solo exhibition, "Powerscapes and Hidden Agendas.” Powerscapes refers to visual renderings of the actors with undue influence over city life. By fusing abstract and generative art, Vargas brings to life power structures undergirding modern city life.

In this showcase, Vargas unveils paintings using government data as a medium. Each painting is constructed through a multi stage process that Vargas begins by coding abstract forms using datasets such as tax returns, redistricting maps, crime statistics in R (a computing program). Vargas, then, produces the data-driven abstract forms on canvas using acrylics, spray paint, and oil pastels.

By gathering datasets from government archives or freedom of information act requests, Vargas transforms a rich trove of information into paintings infused with movement and emotion. The exhibit invites viewers to feel emotions in paintings constructed from materials thought to be emotionless."Powerscapes and Hidden Agendas” is a celebration of the humanity, emotions, and dynamism in data. Join us on this immersive journey revealing forces that lie beneath the surface of U.S. cities.

Paintings will be available for purchase via silent auction, with all proceeds going to Lucy Parsons Labs, a Chicago based public interest nonprofit uncovering harms of surveillance and technology on society.