Nick Oza Brings a Glimpse of India to Bokeh Gallery

PHOENIX - June 8, 2016 - PRLog -- Shade Projects is proud to present Cleansing the Soul in India, the solo photography exhibition of Nick Oza in Bokeh Gallery at the monOrchid. Oza marks his debut at the monOrchid with Cleansing the Soul in India, presenting a new body of work "Kumbh Mela" that is sure to mesmerize and delight audiences with his striking images of India, its people and their beautiful traditions.This exhibition showcases the artist's travels and exploration through India with a behind the scenes look at the wandering monks known Sadhus, as well as Maha Kumbh Mela which is the largest religious gathering in the world in Allahabad India.

"His photography allows his viewers to better understand the people and their culture resulting in powerful yet truly beautiful imagery", states Shade Projects Curator Nicole Royse. Oza visits his family yearly in India, but this year the timing worked perfectly allowing him to venture to this amazing Hindu festival, as well as connecting with the Sadhus resulting in unique and captivating behind the scenes photographs. This trip and images truly marked a milestone in Oza life that he reaffirmed, "It was one of the most amazing experiences in my life and helped me to understand this culture and religion."

For over 20 years Oza has traveled the world as a photojournalist, giving him exposure and experience capturing inspiring images from around the globe. A true visual storyteller he is able to translate his passion and focus in covering social issues to his viewers through his photography. "I am driven by curiosity, compassion and a deep desire to tell the stories of the people I document," said Oza. Through much support and encouragement Oza made his Roosevelt Row debut last August with his much buzzed about exhibition "Border of Dreams" at Treeo Gallery, which highlighted his extensive work along the U.S.-Mexico border and his coverage of immigration and border conditions.

Traditionally trained Oza holds a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Photography from Columbia College. Since 2006 Oza has been a notable staff photojournalist for the Arizona Republic, where he covers both community and national issues highlighting such topics as immigration, gang violence, mental health, and refugees. Oza has been honored as Arizona Photographer of the Year for the last four years while his multimedia work has been honored with an Emmy Award. His documentary photography has received numerous honors from Pictures of the Year International, NPPA's Best of Photojournalism and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service as part of the Biloxi Sun Herald's coverage of Hurricane Katrina. His photography has appeared in such publications as Time magazine, the New York Time's Lens Blog and American Photo, just to name a few.

The monOrchid and Shade Projects curator, Nicole Royse will host the Opening Reception on First Friday, July 1^st, 2016 from 6-10pm. The Closing Reception will take place on Friday, July 22^nd, 2016 from 6-9pm and the evening will offer an intimate event with the artist, Nick Oza and Curator, Nicole Royse. Oza will give a special talk about his work, travels, and creative process at 7:15pm. Cleansing the Soul in India will be on display in Bokeh Gallery at the monOrchid from July 1^st until July 24^th, 2016. Please visit our website for more information at monorchid.com and all exhibition inquiries please contact Shade Projects Curator, Nicole Royse.