The Edmonds Arts Commission presents an exhibit at the Edmonds Library of mixed media paintings by Amy Peacock now through June 30.

While Peacock is always experimenting and exploring new ideas, her current body of work focuses on the juxtaposition of dark themes such as depression, decay and ruin with images of beauty in vibrant colors and exciting textures. She often does this through the use of a repetitive shape. The viewer is attracted from a distance by the color and texture, but upon closer inspection, they see thought-provoking images.

Ultimately her work is about communication — how the viewer and the artist connect and communicate through the piece. Peacock loves the interactive nature of her work and often is asked if it can be touched, to which she replies, “yes” — she loves to see that discovery process.

Peacock’s work explores the dualities of life and culture. As humans we laugh when we are in pain, say one thing and do another, portray ourselves one way but harbor a secret self. There is a constant push and pull. She looks for ways to depict a balance between the sacred and the mundane, the man-made and the organic, the beautiful and the ruined. Her large pieces provide the opportunity for the viewer to lengthen his or her exploration of that duality and discovery of new things — moving in close, then stepping back.

Peacock is a self-taught artist who lives in Snohomish. Her work has been exhibited in the Puget Sound area and Oregon. She is a member of Artist Trust and Artists Connect.