The paintings, sculptures, and digital works of Chad Rea explore the duality of self and the inner struggle to understand our changing world. Drawing upon current political, ethical, and social issues, and utilizing communication techniques mastered as an advertising Creative Director, Rea juxtaposes iconic imagery with cultural insights designed to surprise, inform, entertain, and ultimately get participants to act.

“As a result of the Parkland shootings, several schools now require students to carry clear backpacks as a preventative measure for keeping guns out of classrooms. Instead, our children inadvertently have to carry a fearful reminder with them every day.”