Calgary's cSPACE Marda Loop is currently hosting "Into the Void and Out of the Void," the debut solo exhibition by local mixed-media artist Carmine Aspen. Running through Aug. 25 in the Cupola Gallery, the show explores how artists find joy through creative expression, regardless of their mental state—a theme that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The collection spans everything from flowing paint and ink work to embroidery and collage pieces. Aspen describes their work as informed by navigating a mind that's "bright and hopeful but equally existential and depressive," creating art that captures this fascinating dichotomy between light and shadow through diverse mediums and creative chaos.

The opening reception takes place this Friday, Aug. 1 from 6-8pm, with Aspen on hand to discuss their work. The exhibition runs daily through the end of August (closed Sundays), offering visitors a chance to experience art that celebrates the unexpected forms joy can take in creative expression.