Santa Monica

Kay Omata’s new abstract paintings and mixed-media work on paper show her to be casting about in search of the right mixture of small-scale complexity and large-scale vision, introversion and outgoing zest. While the diptych, “Suspended Time,” seems murky and labored, “Heroic Life” lets some energy out of the brush. Loose, fan-shaped forms offer a structure for this large painting, which incorporates hints of imagery--an elevated train? A gun? A boat?--into vigorous sweep of movement.

“Continuum No. 5,” a small work on paper, has a serious mien and somewhat dated air. Intensively layered and detailed organic forms merge and submerge in a muted deep-blue field. Another small piece, “Deck of House No. 3,” takes its cue from four wooden matches mounted on a small thin wood rectangle. Next to this collaged element, blue-black paint strokes leap up in flamelike counterpoint. A glowing deep-yellow ground with a skittering of red allows the image to catch fire. “Continuum No. 3,” has a more random feel, with a light touch in the layering of color and the quick tendrils of black line that dash here and there.

Throughout, Omata seems to be stretching herself to find the limits of a painterly freedom she can live with, and to locate different kinds of anchors that create structure. The exercise seems invigorating, with some payoffs already visible. (Merging One Gallery, 1547 6th St., to July 8.)