Dedicated exclusively to displaying local emerging artists, “Emerges VIII” is ATHICA’s annual exhibition that aims to catch budding creators on the brink of transitioning into professional careers. Guest curated by Linnea West, the show explores themes of commercial artifice, fantasy and self reconciliation through high-gloss, color-saturated photographs by Winnie Gier, portraits by Ben Rouse, a site-specific drawing by Cameron Lyden, a dreamlike oil painting by Michael Ross and mixed-media installations by Jessica Machacek and Saegan Moran. The reception includes live music by Historic Sunsets, who released a debut album this summer. “Emerges VIII” will remain on view through Sunday, Aug. 23.

6–8 p.m. FREE! athica.org