Minneapolis artist Michael Thomsen opens 'Mystery School' at Public Functionary

Opening Saturday: What's the point of all that clutter tumbling out of closets, junk stores, trunks, jewelry boxes and dusty cupboards? Where most people just sweep the stuff into trash bins, self-taught Minneapolis-based artist Michael Thomsen sees a potential "Mystery School," as he dubbed his new show. It promises to be chockablock with bric-à-brac that he's glued, nailed and collaged together. Garnished with neon lights and bright colors, his new concoctions are inspired — as always — by ancient legends and beliefs (Christian, Greco-Roman, Norse), Masonic regalia, carnival acts, religious reliquaries, dreams, nightmares and the byways of art history (Baroque curlicues, Rococo ribbons and flowers). Prepare to be dazzled and, of course, mystified. (Opening party 7 p.m.-midnight Sat., Public Functionary, 1400 12th Av. NE., Mpls. Free. Open 4-8 p.m. Tue., noon-4 p.m. Wed., noon-8 p.m. Fri., 7-11 p.m. Sat. through Oct. 31. publicfunctionary.org)

Mary Abbe