Santa Fe-based painter Michael Kessler triumphs with a suite of virtuosic works in Butters’ group show, Aqua. He moves away from the drab desert tones that dominated his last solo show at Butters in favor of inspired combinations of vibrant blues and mint greens, which alternately pique and soothe the eye. Kessler’s work has always been about juxtaposition, mixing organic and geometric motifs, but for this outing he advances that strategy by using framing devices. The painting Galvanic, which surrounds an invigorating blue and green mash-up with creamy ecru, is one of his most challenging and fulfilling pieces in years. Through March 2.
Where: Butters
Phone: 248-9378
Address: 520 NW Davis St., 2nd floor
Website: www.buttersgallery.com
Where: Butters
Phone: 248-9378
Address: 520 NW Davis St., 2nd floor
Website: www.buttersgallery.com

