Phoenix-based artists Ryan Greene and Daniella Napolitano will present their respective exhibitions, “Edible” and "Synurbization," at Phoenix College Eric Fischl Gallery from September 8 to 24, 2025. An opening reception will be held in the gallery on Tuesday, September 8, from 5:30 to 8 pm.
"Edible"
Clay soil provides the nutrients to grow the plants that feed us and the material to make functional pottery to enjoy a cup of tea or a bowl of soup. “Edible” explores the relationship humans have to the objects we use and positions functional wares as fruits for harvest, inviting visitors to lift a lid and twist a cup out of its holding place. When it comes to functional pottery, Greene encourages his to be used for food. As an avid gardener, his work engages the growth pattern of plants found in both formal and edible gardens. Greene notes, "Similar to the golden spiral, the cutouts [for my cup bushes] are positioned with the emergence of cups at the top as the newest growth."
"Synurbization"
In a world where hawks hunt between parking decks, coyotes stealthily traverse highways, and grackles ingeniously scavenge amidst backyard barbecues, Daniella Napolitano captures the resilience, resourcefulness, and sometimes even the whimsical interactions of these urban dwellers in this exhibition. "Synurbization" investigates the intricate narratives of animals navigating and adapting to the ever-evolving urban space. "My work is a call to action for people to notice their animal neighbors and take the time to understand or appreciate them," writes Napolitano. "The animals I depict are often overlooked, misidentified, or misunderstood. By highlighting 'ordinary' urban animals in my work, I remind the viewer that humans share a space with wildlife."
About the Artists
A ceramic artist currently based in Phoenix, Ryan Greene was born in St. Louis, Missouri and raised in Wellington, Florida. He recently completed his MFA at Arizona State University and works out of his new studio, Greene Door Studio. Prior to grad school, he lived in Helena, Montana and worked as a production potter and in Edinboro, Pennsylvania as a ceramic technician. He received his BFA in Ceramics from the University of North Florida. Ryan Greene Ceramics.
Drawing inspiration from nature and ecology, Daniella Napolitano explores the diverse and complex relationships between animals, humans, and the environment. Her current body of work focuses on animals commonly seen throughout the Sonoran Desert Region. She received her bachelor’s degree in Studio Art at American University in Washington, DC and her Master of Fine Arts in Printmaking at Arizona State University. Her work has been shown nationally and internationally including Italy and Puerto Rico.
The Eric Fischl Gallery
Nestled atop Phoenix College’s Fine Arts Building, the Eric Fischl Gallery boasts panoramic views of Mid-town Phoenix and some of the most exciting artwork in the Valley. Rotating exhibitions of local and nationally known artists are curated in fall and spring semesters through an annual Call for Proposals. We're also proud to share the selected work of student artists, through annual events like the Vanguard Showcase. The Eric Fischl Gallery is open Monday through Thursday, from 12 to 8 pm. The gallery is located on the second floor of the art building, north of Thomas Road and south of Osborn Road, at the intersection of 11th Avenue and Earll Drive.