Phil Barbato's “Plushozoic” brings a bit of childlike wonder to Gallery5


If Richmond independent artist Phil Barbato has children, they undoubtedly have the coolest collection of stuffed creations sprung from the alley between “Sesame Street” and “Avenue Q.” Using such wide-ranging materials as fleece, felt, fur and foam, Barbato's set of quirky creatures, monsters, whosis and whatsits brings a squishy familiarity and sweetness to a modern art scene preoccupied with nonsensical experimentation and self-indulgent statements. Christening the new craft-based art installation Gallowlilly's within Gallery5, Barbato's exhibit, “Plushozoic,” opens Friday, Sept. 4, at 7 p.m. On display through Sept. 25. 644-0005. — Mike Hilleary

TRENDING

WHAT YOU WANT TO KNOW — straight to your inbox

* indicates required
Our mailing lists: