Ro2 Art Debuts Carmen Menza's “Patterns of Disturbance”

Calling on creative conversations for all who have entered the building at Ro2 Art—Dallas-based Carmen Menza presents “Patterns of Disturbance.” On display through Jan. 11, the show summons themes of perception, reflection, disquiet, and hope through neon text-based statements and light-based works.

Carmen Menza is an interdisciplinary artist creating fine art and technology-based installations

Can you tell me about your current show at Ro2 Art Gallery? I’ve been working on these pieces for the last year and am proud of how the show looks. My work focuses on perceptual phenomena and reflectivity, and my interest lies in altering the physical and sensory experience of space with physical illusions and the idea that light can serve as both subject and material in art. When viewing optical art, we try to make sense of what we are seeing, but our eyes are sending contradictory information to our brains through patterns of disturbance. It is in these patterns of disturbance that I find myself continually exploring materials and the properties of light.

You mention hope (and the element of its loss) being at the forefront of your mind. Can you expand on that as it pertains to your current show? Lately, I’ve been thinking deeply about how beauty and brokenness exist in parallel in our lives. The two are always present and artists often feel these two extremes more deeply than the rest of society.

“Patterns of Disturbance” current solo show at Ro2 Art, on view through Jan 11, 2025.

I know you are heavily involved in the philanthropic scene here in Dallas. Can you expand on the importance of this to you? Being involved with the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center is very important. I’ve been a part of their annual Art forAdvocacy event since its inception. The support they provide children and families in this region is so crucial for our community as it gives children hope that they will find safety, security and begin to heal. I also embrace the efforts and mission of the Nexus Recovery Center. Something else close to my heart is Texas Vignette. Eight years ago I joined with a handful of women to produce the first annual Vignette Art Fair. The event is dedicated to amplifying the voices of women artists throughout the state of Texas.

What’s on the horizon? I have a solo show planned for later in 2025 at Jody Klotz Fine Art in Abilene, TX. I am super excited about this show because Jody has such an incredible depth of knowledge and experience in the art world, and she is an absolute joy to be with. She’s got this endless energy that just pulls you in, and the art community in Abilene is incredibly supportive and vibrant.