Rutstein’s first solo exhibition at Space Gallery consists of large-scale abstract paintings inspired by a world hidden from view: microbial networks and chemical processes that contribute to an an array of life thousands of meters below in the deep sea.

Site Unseen is a continuation of a project that began in 2018 through a collaboration between Rutstein and marine scientist Samantha Joye, which included a joint expedition at sea to study the origins of life at hydrothermal vents off the coast of Mexico in the Sea of Cortez. This culminated in a once in a lifetime opportunity to do a deep sea dive in the submersible Alvin to the ocean floor over a mile below, funded by the National Science Foundation. For more information contact Michael Burnett at: art@spacegallery.org