[image: Copyright 2019 Patti Ramos Photography - Michael Darling_sm_ 1.jpg] *FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE* *Contact*: Michael Darling *Phone*: 253 9547546 *Email*: michaeldarlingart@gmail.com *Twitter: *@michaeldarling *Out of the streets and into the gallery: Local artist redefines himself.* *Tacoma, WA. *March 25, 2019. Michael Darling moves from the streets of Tacoma into space. In his first gallery show, Darling presents *Swap Meet Diamond.* Swap Meet Diamond is a collection of original paintings that focus on themes such as class disparity, the perception of value and luxury, and beautiful things in ugly places. Darling is a strong observer of the social strata and its paradoxical yet universal relationships. Known for his edgy style, Michael Darling is a visual artist from Tacoma Washington. Most commonly referred to as a "street artist" or "graffiti artist" Michael rejects these and all labels and simply thinks of himself as an artist. He spends the majority of his days creating and experimenting; mixing paints and materials with little regard to traditional rules and techniques. Michael's influences include Walt Disney, Richard Hambleton, Andy Warhol, Blek le Rat and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Michael Darling's mission is to move people's hearts in one way or another. Good or bad. And to force viewers to consider that beauty surrounds us. >From the dingiest of gutters to the most beautiful galleries. And that everything is temporary. And that life is a gift, not to be wasted or taken for granted. *Location and date: *Pop-up show, two nights only. Meet the artist and learn about his work. *Ajax Electric Gallery *747 South Court D, Tacoma 98402 *Preview*, Third Thursday, April 18, 5-8 p.m. *Artist show*, Saturday, April 20, 6-9 p.m. -End-