Parting Shot

“I enjoy the duality of the alligator creature here—cute and innocent, but also ferocious,” says Kingston-based artist Matthew Palin. “This work is meant to serve as a stage set where an open-ended narrative unfolds. Ultimately, these characters’ fates are determined by the viewer.”

After growing up in South Florida (home to many gators), Palin received a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design. Eventually, he journeyed to the picturesque Hudson Valley and earned his Master’s at SUNY New Paltz, where he is currently teaching a class in printmaking.

This etching, titled Afloat, evolved from a series of childhood toy drawings and is part of the show “Tadpoles,” which will be exhibited at the New Paltz Cultural Collective at 60 Main from April 14 through May 12. The opening reception will be held on April 14 from 4 to 6pm. (845) 255-1901; www.60main.org.