Las Vegas Weekly

Cool art shows opening this week

Styrofoam, a memorial and creamy sensuality

• Teetering on the Brink: If ever there was a time when it seems like the world could be pulled out from under us, it’s now. John Bissonette relays this in his solo exhibit, Teetering on the Brink, a commentary on the unpredictable nature of our time, where stability is more of a façade than a guarantee — told in sculpted Styrofoam, found objects and recycled parts. Through March 12 (opening reception February 5, 6-8 p.m.). Clark County Government Center, 500 Grand Central Parkway, 455-6155.

• Small: Angela Kallus has spent a few years creating textured circular works, air brushed with vibrant colors, resulting in austere, tidy and meticulous disc-like paintings. Her exhibit at Trifecta shows a similar style, with a new, rich and creamy sensuality. Through February 26 (opening reception February 4, 5-9 p.m.). Trifecta Gallery, 107 E. Charleston Blvd., 366-7001.

• Aho Mtakuye Oyasin: The Art of Kevin Bays: The recent death of 36-year-old artist Bays, a 2000 MFA grad from UNLV, was a tough blow for his Vegas friends, who remember him as a spiritual, calm, methodical and engaging soul. In memoriam, an exhibit of Bays’ ceramics and paintings — a blend of urban art, anime, graffiti and representational imagery — will be shown. Through February 24. Vagus Nerve Gallery in the Arts Factory, 107 E. Charleston Blvd.

• Tomorrow People: Featuring four young artists influenced by Las Vegas as UNLV undergrads — Leah Craig, Catherine Cruise, Justin Favela and Thomas Willis — all of whom developed their own unique style while tapping into their surroundings. Through March 19 (opening reception February 4, 6-9 p.m.), Contemporary Arts Center, 101 E. Charleston Blvd., 382-3886.