Sixteen:One gallery is pleased to Present Obsurd, new works by Los Angeles based artist, Thomas Schmidt. The exhibition opens March 31, 2007 and runs through April 28, with an opening reception Saturday, March 31, from 7-10 pm.

Ethnologists describe male bonding as a group of males who regularly form coalitions in which they mutually support each other. This support is strengthened if such coalitions are used to attack other groups or individuals. Using images that are at once lovely, grotesque, absurd, and to some, obscene, Thomas Schmidt explores hunting as a means of male bonding. Joining a group of male hunters, Schmidt participates in the rituals, takes pleasure in the camaraderie, and discovers bonding through the activity. At the same time, Schmidt questions the costs at which this bonding occurs. While many consider killing an animal an obscene and absurd ritual, it has been practiced throughout history, whether the reasons are survival or the strengthening of friendships and emotional connections it continues as a much discussed dialogue.