Bula art exhibit features works inspired by ‘pulp fiction'

Newton - Michael Hughes, a local emerging artist, is having his first solo show through the partnership of Bula Restaurant in Newton and Flying Pig Gallery in Sussex. Hughes’ “The Cry of the People” exhibit will be on display through March 31 at the restaurant, located at 134 Spring St. in Newton. Laurie Boyle of Bula describes it as a “powerful exhibit in which Hughes combines his passion for the cheap detective fiction from the 1940s and ‘50s, comic books and movies.” “My work definitely owes a great deal to a pulp sensibility,” said Hughes, adding that he also uses today’s popular culture to provide the grist for his art. Conceiving a world view through assembling, reassembling, juxtaposing and comparing, Hughes offers a personal lens through which others can view his world. He describes his art as being “in a state of constant evolution, both conceptually and in actual implementation.” Hughes’ personal collage has taken him through degrees in both studio art and art history, with a master’s in fine art pending this year. An art opening, catered by Bula, will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 5, at the restaurant. The public is invited to meet the artist. For information, call 973-579-7338.