GARDINER — “In and Out of the Shadows,” by Bridget McAlonan, will be on view Sept. 30-Nov. 19 at Monkitree, 263 Water St. An opening reception is set for 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30.

Working in both painting and shadow puppetry, McAlonan, of Topsham, delves into the concepts of confinement, longing, belonging and what happens when we aren’t like everyone else. Do we retreat into the shadows or leap out putting forward all that makes us unique?

The shadow puppetry is black and white with muted color. McAlonon has created delicate puppets from detritus. She explains, “This piece of junk is not junk. By making meaning out of junk, we elevate the profane to something more,” according to a news release from Monkitree.

McAlonan expresses what it feels like to be on the outside, “Not thinking or doing what is expected. But what is important.” With empathy and humor, she conjures the vulnerability and pain as well as the strength and resiliency of the human condition.

In addition to framed puppets, Bridget will be showing video of puppet shows with new surprises through the length of the show.

For more information, call 512-4679 or visit www.monkitree.com.