The walls of MAINSITE will be transformed into a large format graphic novel by Norman artist Gregg Standridge, an extraordinary, hand-cut, wood inlay marquetry show of over 20 pieces.

Yes! I Can Roger! opens on May 12 and runs through June 9 at MAINSITE Contemporary Art, 122 E. Main. The exhibit will be celebrated with an opening reception from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 12 and closing reception from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 9.

Both receptions will be held in conjunction with Norman Arts Council’s monthly 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk.

The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission to the gallery during open hours and receptions is always free.

Oklahoma native, Roger Miller, made a bold statement in his hit song, “You Can’t Roller Skate In A Buffalo Herd,” but we respond with, “Yes! I can Roger!” Jayzik Azikiwe comes to life from a little girl struggling to overcome her “buffalos” to a world where she lives her dream of rollerskating and is celebrated for her courage and determination. The show evolved from his teenage years, spending hours watching eal live confident Jazik Azikiwe skate in Dire Strait’s video “Skate Away” on MTV. The exhibition evokes feelings of hope, music, dreadlocks and “I can do anything!”

“My vision of wood inlay art comes alive, sings and dances, and even cries,” Standridge said of this body of work. “It won’t be still.”

More about Gregg Standridge

Gregg Standridge is a local Norman artist, musician, and registered Choctaw Nation artist. He is also Cherokee, a seasoned songwriter, teacher of guitar and performer. He has played with words, music and art since birth. He was recently commissioned to create “Buffalo Sunset” mural at Midway Grocery. He was also accepted into UN(SEEN), a juried exhibit in Chickasha, OK and has frequently exhibited works at various Downtown Norman shops and studios during 2nd Friday Norman Art Walks.