 |
 |
Art LA is a huge convention that took place last weekend in Santa Monica. My roommate Liz had a free ticket so we went and checked it out. Here are three rad artists whose work I found out about as a result!
Most of Adrian Ghenie’s paintings use the same drab color palette. It’s all black and white and beiges and dark browns– which, combined with his blotchy impressionist brush strokes, would usually be a total turn-off for me. But the subject matter in Ghenie’s work is too rad to dismiss. I mean, maybe I’m wrong here, but I’m pretty sure that picture above depicts two gay Nazis secretly making out. Kinda hot. He also draws submarines, dark basements, and cold men hiding under their desks during wartime.
Adrian Ghenie has shown at Kontainer Gallery in L.A. |
 |
 |
It’s no surprise to learn that Michael Williams went to summer school at RISD in 1996, because his paintings have that endearing Fort Thunder touch. The work leaves a first impression of haphazard juvenile nonsense, but it only takes a second glance to notice the insane intricacies. Williams’ paintings are firmly rooted in the realm of the absurd and cartoony, without crossing the line into annoying abrasiveness. There’s a hidden reservoir of mystery in each image– like we’re just peering at the calm facade of a raging battle between sinister and friendly forces.
Michael Williams has shown at Canada Gallery in New York. |
|
