Voltaic Age beauty

Chris Beards, “Unfold,” mixed media, bronze, paper, 2001.

Chris Beards, “Unfold,” mixed media, bronze, paper, 2001.

If you understand that headline, you’re probably familiar with Rand and Robyn Miller’s computer games, Myst, Riven and Exile. Chris Beards, a sculptor from Willits, may not know Voltaic from Amateria, Edanna or J’nanin (island worlds from Exile), but Beards’ sculptures have that otherworldly 4AD-meets-Jules Verne vibe that makes the Miller brothers’ games such anachronistic eye candy. The 11 pieces of Beards’ on display at MatrixArts Space through May 1 have been fashioned from metal, wire, wood, papier-mâché and, in one case, a dead bird; their meticulously crafted ancient patina and mystery of function trigger the imagination. Also on display are what look like life forms from the alien world Xen from the game Half-Life, by Santa Cruz artist Elizabeth Jonasson, and some stellar pieces, constructed from pump heels, tacks, snaps and hair, respectively, by Arkansas artist Les Christensen. 1518 Del Paso Blvd., open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Call 923-9118 for information.