A new exhibition of whimsy, color, and imagination is coming to a downtown Phoenix art gallery.

“Joyful Exploration” showcases works from Jeremy Yocum and Nikki Dee Miller through colorful paintings, prints, and the occasional ‘Yocumonster.’

The exhibition runs from Monday, Nov. 27 through Sunday, Dec. 24 at Olney Gallery at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 100 W. Roosevelt St. A First Friday reception goes from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1.

Yocum’s work includes fictitious creatures and objects of pop culture from his youth. The work consists of paintings, screen prints, and whimsical faux taxidermy creatures called Yocumonsters.

“The meaning behind this work is simple – grin and enjoy it,” he shared in a press release.

Yocum has been an arts educator for the past 25 years. Along with teaching high school students, he currently teaches printmaking to adults at Xico Inc.

Dee Miller is an emerging artist. Her paintings are influenced by her graphic design, pairing ordered lines with chaotic brushstrokes, resulting in vibrant abstracts with touches of modern realism.

“Please enjoy the playfulness of these paintings as we sometimes forget to do in daily adult life,” she stated.

Dee Miller participates in Scottsdale art fairs and has her work displayed at many local businesses.

“Knight 2,” by Nikki Dee Miller, will be exhibited when “Joyful Exploration” opens this month in downtown Phoenix.

(Photo provided by Olney Gallery)