An Exhibition of the Elements
Two artists. Two different styles. Two ways to manipulate the surfaces they paint on before creating their works of art. One has created his own unique style, called Abstract Sensualism, that is now a registered art form. The other is a contemporary realist artist who harnesses universal human emotions, capturing moments that tell a story.
You can experience each of their art styles and techniques in a new exhibition, Forged in Fire, Rendered in Oil: The Artwork of Chris DeRubeis and Megan Burak, now through April 9, 2026, at Park West Gallery Las Vegas. This new exhibition offers the chance to view and own artworks from two popular artists still hitting their prime.
DeRubeis’s journey to developing his Abstract Sensualism style began experimenting with ways to manipulate the way light reacted on metallic surfaces. After years of experimenting, his technique now involves painting and manipulating metal surfaces with a mixture of chemicals, power tools, fire and ice to create textures that resemble stone or marble. Then he starts adding layers of paint on top of that to build up to his final image.
Burak also likes to manipulate her painting surfaces, but in a very different way. She starts by lightly sanding her canvas and then putting a wash on it, usually a mix of cerulean blue, raw umber and terpenoid. Then, she draws the image precisely measured to the exact proportions she wants. Next, she works in oils over that, often creating intriguing portraiture with a myriad of colors in skin, hair and eyes that most people don’t see. Her artworks are hyper real images that masterfully capture personality and narrative, inviting the viewer in to be a part of the story.
DeRubeis and Burak give you two very different takes on the world that are yet somewhat similar. Each builds their work on foundations made all their own, putting their own twist on today’s reality. It is why they have both become favorites of collectors worldwide.
Whether you attended our exhibitions many times or are just visiting Vegas and want a unique experience, this is an exhibition you’ll want to spend some time with. Don’t miss, Forged in Fire, Rendered in Oil: The Artwork of Chris DeRubeis and Megan Burak, now through April 9, at Park West’s Las Vegas Gallery.
