Oh, for the love of Blog

SUGGESTIVISM

2011-01-29T19:51:00.001-08:00

SUGGESTIVISM
CSUF Grand Central Art Center / Santa Ana, CA
125 N. Broadway / Santa Ana, CA 92701
February 05 - April 17, 2010
Opening Reception: Saturday, February 5, 7:00-10:00 p.m.
Sponsors: GelaSkins, Hurley, Gingko Press, Juxtapoz, Planet illogica
Main Art Gallery Suggestivism features over fifty contemporary artists whose work is inherently ambiguous, and organic in process. Curator Nathan Spoor believes they follow the ideals of "Suggestivism." The term Suggestivism in art was first used in the late nineteenth century describing the organic process of making art, the loose mark-making, and the ambiguous narrative. Early modern art can be seen as examples of Suggestivism. However, Spoor's contemporary examples begin with the organic process and follow through with ambiguous narratives, but the artwork is tightly rendered, and illustrative.
Conceptually speaking, the term suggestivism refers to the ability of an individual to pursue their purpose with an amplified understanding and sensitivity. The artists involved represent precisely this - a wave of purpose, working within the more fluid aspects of narrative or figurative arenas. Through the mere power of suggestion, the magic is transferred from one to another, engaging the world at large from the most vivid and evocative of visual realms. - Nathan Spoor, Curator
Featured Artists: Esao Andrews, Carrie Ann Baade, Sandow Birk, Michael Brown, Nicoletta Ceccoli, Dave Cooper, Bob Dob, Thomas Doyle, Ron English, Alex Gross, Robert Hardgrave, Naoto Hattori, Femke Hiemstra, Gregory Jacobsen, Audrey Kawasaki, Andy Kehoe, Kris Kuksi, Darren LeGallo, Kris Lewis, Francesco LoCastro, Jason Maloney, Mars-1/Mario Martinez. Chris Mars, Dalek James Marshall, Dan May, Elizabeth McGrath, Jeff McMillan, Tara McPherson, Mia, David Molesky, Brendan Monroe, Scott Musgrove, Nathan Ota, Michael Page, Kevin Peterson, James Roper, Chris Ryniak, Bob Schneider, Todd Schorr, Greg Simkins, Skinner, Jeff Soto, Nathan Spoor, CR Stecyk III, Heidi Taillefer, Joe Vaux, Nicola Verlato, Oliver Vernon, Eric White, Robin Williams, Martin Wittfooth, Chandler Wood, Chet Zar

BL!SSS / JOE SORREN

2010-12-02T17:12:00.001-08:00

Greg Escalante and I had a great time talking with Joe Sorren about tons of fun things. Click here to get a peek.

HI FRUCTOSE / ALBERTO MIELGO

2010-12-01T08:13:00.001-08:00

Alberto Mielgo is a Spanish artist located currently in London, UK. He is in high demand for his commercial as well as his fine art works. Click here to view the full article.

HI FRUCTOSE / MERCEDES HELNWEIN

2010-11-13T10:58:00.001-08:00

Mercedes Helnwein is showing a new body of work in Los Angeles, and takes a few moments to share thoughts and images with us. Click here to view.

HI FRUCTOSE / RYAN HESHKA PREVIEW

2010-10-28T08:19:00.001-07:00

Vancouver BC artist Ryan Heshka was kind enough to give us a peek into his new body of work and provide a statement to boot. Click here to jump in.

HI FRUCTOSE / LOLA DUPRE

2010-10-23T12:34:00.001-07:00

Many thanks to Glasgow, Scotland artist Lola Dupre for sharing her work, thoughts and process of creating with us all. Click here to see the full interview.

JUXTAPOZ / THE DANCE OF ALLEGIANCE

2010-10-22T19:16:00.001-07:00

The game is indeed afoot. Click here to engage.

HI FRUCTOSE / HEIDI TAILLEFER

2010-10-20T06:31:00.001-07:00

The very talented and enigmatic Heidi Taillefer took some time from her Canada studio to chat about her latest body of work. Click here to view the text and images.

REMEDY EXHIBIT / RIVET GALLERY

2010-09-28T17:39:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest painting, for a group exhibit at Rivet Gallery in Columbus, OH.

Falling
Acrylic on canvas
8 x 8 inches / framed

HI FRUCTOSE / CHARLES CLARY

2010-09-28T17:23:00.000-07:00

NY artist Charles Clary was generous enough to take a few moments from his busy schedule to share thoughts on his work and process. Click here to see more.

HI FRUCTOSE / MARIO SUGHI

2010-09-17T19:28:00.001-07:00

Dublin, Ireland artist Mario Sughi took time out of his busy schedule of openings to do an interview. Click here to read and see more.

JUXTAPOZ / THINGS TO COME

2010-08-31T08:52:00.000-07:00

Click here to see a preview of the new work coming up at Bold Hype's gallery in Chelsea, NY

HI FRUCTOSE / ALEX GROSS

2010-08-26T12:28:00.001-07:00

Click here to read about Alex Gross' new body of work and book release!

HI FRUCTOSE / MIA BROWNELL

2010-08-24T08:40:00.001-07:00

Mia Brownell is at it again. Well, actually she never stopped. I had the chance to catch up with her since our HF article to see what she's been up to. Click here to see new works and some words.

HI FRUCTOSE / ART ON THE EDGE

2010-07-31T13:09:00.000-07:00

Got some great shots of the opening night of the exhibit, Art on the Edge - The New Contemporary, recently. Click here to check them out.

HI FRUCTOSE / JEFF McMILLAN

2010-07-17T15:53:00.001-07:00

The Joe Hahn piano was just the tip of the iceberg of Jeff McMillan's possible repertoire. Click here to get your eyes around it.

HI FRUCTOSE / ALTERNATIVE PRESS EXHIBIT

2010-07-17T15:49:00.001-07:00

I was granted a VIP pass to check out the goings-on of the Alternative Press Magazine 25th Anniversary opening at Merry Karnowsky Gallery. Click here to read all about it.

JUXTAPOZ / JEFF McMILLAN x JOE HAHN

2010-07-17T15:45:00.001-07:00

This is super cool, check out the customized piano that narrative wizard Jeff McMillan painted up for Linkin Park's Joe Hahn. Click here to read the story and see pics.

HI FRUCTOSE / SCOTT SAW

2010-07-07T12:38:00.001-07:00

San Diego artist Scott Saw gives us a viewing of his new work, as well as his studio space. Click here to see those, and some words.

HAMPTONS EXHIBIT

2010-07-06T13:42:00.000-07:00

BL!SSS / JEFF SOTO

2010-07-01T20:39:00.001-07:00

The July 2010 issue of Blisss Magazine is rocking a cover feature of Jeff Soto, courtesy of Greg Escalante and yours truly. Click here to view the issue online.

HI FRUCTOSE / CHRIS RYNIAK

2010-06-28T17:38:00.001-07:00

This is some great back and forth with artist Chris Ryniak. He cracks me up. Click here to see what he's been up to lately.

HI FRUCTOSE / LUKE O'SULLIVAN

2010-06-22T17:36:00.001-07:00

Luke O'Sullivan has some impressive things going on in his combination screenprint / construction works. Click here to check out the interview and his work.

HI FRUCTOSE / JULIEN BERTHIER

2010-06-07T09:24:00.001-07:00

French born international art sensation Julien Berthier spends a few moments talking about his work and sharing some pictures. Click here to view the full article.

HI FRUCTOSE / DAN MAY

2010-06-03T12:59:00.001-07:00

Dan May took a few minutes out of his very busy schedule of painting and packing up paintings to chat with me about his latest works and ideas. Click here to see all that good stuff.

HI FRUCTOSE / RYAN HESHKA

2010-05-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

Caught up with illustrator Ryan Heshka before his latest show with BLAB!. Check out the interview and some fresh new images by clicking here.

JUXTAPOZ / NEW LOCASTRO MURAL

2010-05-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

Had a chance to catch up with fellow artist Francesco LoCastro a few days ago, where he shared his latest public piece. Click here to see some progress and a little interview with the Miami artist.

JUXTAPOZ / SIGHTING: TEXXIE

2010-05-14T13:07:00.000-07:00

I had a great tip from Eric Althin of Bold Hype in Florida (now moving to NY) about another sighting of a strange creature that appeared out of a vortex in a parking lot. Click here to read the interview and check out some of the pics!

JUXTAPOZ / CUPCAKE SOCIABLE

2010-05-06T18:00:00.001-07:00

At the end of last year I got a crazy cool commission to make a painting out of only PeeWee's Playhouse elements. And now, there's a step-by-step stroll down through the entire three-month process. Too fun? Click here to find out for your own.

SNEAKY PEEK

2010-04-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

I've been working pretty steadily on only underpaintings for what is closing in on a year of time. Not that I'd even planned on going that distance without beginning any major works, but it just played out that way. There's been a lot of life going on in that time period and I wanted to address my work more personally and watch it develop in the most basic and unregulated time frame.

The piece above is from an idea that I'd been sorting out a couple years after moving to LA. It involves a glowing item in the floor of a toy room, with all the creatures gathered around to take in the scene. This is one of the many pieces in progress at the moment, and one that I hope to share in finished form before another year passes!

HI FRUCTOSE / JEREMY DOWER

2010-04-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

Check out the text and images by clicking here!

HI FRUCTOSE / EWELINA FERRUSO

2010-04-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

Click here to view the interview and images.

JUXTAPOZ / OCEANS "INFILTRATE" AT UF

2010-03-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

This last week has seen the beginnings of a nationwide awareness tour for the sake of preserving our oceans and precious living resources. The project is called the Oceans Tour, promoting the Disney Oceans release, with Participant Media, TMD and Planet Illogica. The tour consists of sculptures of endangered species creatures; turtles, albatross, jellyfish to name but a few. I caught up with freelance reporter Elle Newbold on the University of Florida's campus to get the full scoop, with photos by Ken Goldstein. Click here for the full deal.

JUXTAPOZ / RON ENGLISH SXSW

2010-03-16T09:25:00.001-07:00

Had a chance to catch up with Ron before his trip out to Austin, TX for SXSW. We had a great talk and got into a lot of fun topics like where the ideas come from, his connection to music and new things on the horizon. Click here for more.

HI FRUCTOSE / YVES LAROCHE

2010-03-08T08:51:00.001-08:00

Take a minute to get to know a really genuine and interesting individual, Montreal's great gallerist Yves Laroche. Click here to view the Hi Fructose interview.

MANIFEST EQUALITY

2010-03-08T08:45:00.001-08:00

The big event of 2010 thus far has been the socio-political arts gathering Manifest Equality. Held in a customized pop up space in Hollywood on Vine, this extremely well attended and loving display of positivity and growth featured amazing live music, tons of great people and... a fine art show of staggering proportions.

Click here to check out the site and an NS interview.

Click here to view the Juxtapoz video by Sam Graham.

ABI / LA PICS

2010-02-24T13:35:00.001-08:00

Click here to check out a couple pictures from the opening and lecture at ACU Cockerell Gallery in Abilene, TX.

JUXTAPOZ / 2ESAE (NY)

2010-02-24T13:33:00.001-08:00

Click here to learn a bit about NY's 2ESAE, part 3 of the East X West mural at Tonny Sørensen's house.

JUXTAPOZ / RELAX (LA)

2010-02-24T13:31:00.001-08:00

Click here to check out LA's RELAX, part 2 of the East X West mural at Tonny Sørensen's house.

JUXTAPOZ / TONNY SØRENSEN MURAL

2010-02-24T13:28:00.000-08:00

Click here to follow the adventures of East X West at Tonny Sørensen's house in the Hills.

ACU COCKERELL GALLERY / ABI LA

2010-02-16T21:45:00.000-08:00

HI FRUCTOSE / LA RIVER PMCA

2010-02-12T17:31:00.001-08:00

There's a really interesting exhibit going on in Pasadena at the PCMA. Click here to read more.

HI FRUCTOSE / JOSHUA LINER

2010-02-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

I had the chance to interview New York gallerist Joshua Liner, getting some of his thoughts on the industry and curating. Click here to read more.

HI FRUCTOSE / NATHAN SKILES

2010-01-26T16:41:00.001-08:00

Click here to check out craft foam cuckoo clock artist Nathan Skiles on the Hi Fructose.

JUXTAPOZ / WKTM MENTION

2010-01-21T10:45:00.000-08:00

Click here to read the bit of attention bestowed upon us by Juxtapoz.com!

WILL.I.AM'S GRAMMY MUSEUM SHOW

2010-01-07T10:17:00.000-08:00

THE RIGHT LIGHT

2009-12-17T11:37:00.001-08:00

The Right Light: A Live-Painting/Video Performance and Art Exhibition featuring Darren Le Gallo and Jon Cournoyer with guest artists Nathan Spoor, Chandler Wood and more. Click here for more information.

STEVEN ALLEN / THE MAGRITTE

2009-12-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

Fine fellow and magnetic storyteller Steven Allen adds a new notch to his master mixologist belt as the Times gives his newest creation, "The Magritte", a little love. Click here to view more of the story.

MULTI PLANE SHOW

2009-12-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Saturday, Dec.12 is a great time to see the concept group show of the year at Corey Helford, the Multi Plane Show. Jan and Bruce hand picked 50 of their favorite artists to pay tribute to the early days of animation. We each created paintings using the multi plane process made famous by pioneer animators Iwerks, Fleischer and Disney, you know, the ones that influenced us all. I finished the multi plane piece (one panel, two glass panes) and then used the shipping box materials (top and bottom panels, side supports got canvas stretched around them) to make three more pieces. So there are actually 4 pieces from yours truly to check out.

Above is my multi plane piece, titled "The Ecstasy of St. Peter", one of four interconnected pieces around a somewhat autobiographical theme. The other 3 look something like this:

HI FRUCTOSE / MOTOI YAMAMOTO

2009-12-08T13:52:00.001-08:00

It may seem like I've had a spell of time off from the Hi Fructose writing but it just isn't so. Of the many incredible people we've been working toward finding out more about, one Motoi Yamamoto definitely stands out in his own right. Click here to read more about this impressive Japanese artist. The story was also picked up by BoingBoing.net soon after landing, very cool!

THE SURFER'S JOURNAL / MIKE SHINE

2009-12-06T10:32:00.001-08:00

Greg and I recently had the great pleasure of visiting with Mike Shine, who's mythological driftwood narrative is beyond words. Hence, a full length article in the prestigious National Geographic of the surfing world, The Surfer's Journal. This really does do the man justice, especially since it's told in first person, just as he said it (pretty much). And we also get a full tour of his legendary Shine Shack to boot! Click here to get a preview and link to the official TSJ site.

BL!SSS / SANDOW BIRK

2009-12-06T10:27:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty stoked on this one, as I've always wanted to explore Sandow's work more and see him as a personal inspiration and a high bar to write about. Sandow is one of the more conceptual narrative artists around, and I'm glad to have had some personal access to him and his thoughts courtesy of our mutual friend Greg Escalante. So Greg and I dove in and got some of the goods on the SoCal painting and surfing force that is Sandow Birk. Click here to get a peek at his feature and link to the full online magazine.

FEVERED LIPSTAIN

2009-10-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

Oh yes, dear readers, it's time once again for another narrated journey into the procession of the latest grouping of paintings. Click here to join the fun.

VAN ARNO / A CHANGE OF SKIN

2009-10-11T09:47:00.001-07:00

Los Angeles artist Van Arno has a new body of work up at Corey Helford that is definitely worth checking out. If you've been following his work, or at least casually aware of him, you'll notice that the aptly titled exhibit shows a substantial leap in his capacity as a visual narrator. To see more, click here.

BABY TATTOOVILLE

2009-10-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

The distance between artist and collector is certainly a curious and fascinating gap, and one that arts entrepreneur Bob Self has sought to close. Enter the world of Baby Tattooville, a singular realm of artistic celebration in which the artist and the earnest collector mix, mingle and enjoy one another’s company in a relaxed and historic environment. Images shown (Chris Denson photos) upper: Jeff Soto sketching, lower: Yoskay Yamamoto painting on the Art Jam collaboration painting. To read more click here!

CHET ZAR / LILITH

2009-09-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was granted the chance to catch up with Chet Zar about his latest body of work. These lush cum dark masterpieces are an amazing bit of a switch from his usual fare, and we get a sneak peek into his mindset just as the works are finished. Click here to find out more.

SIGHTING: THE ABOMINABLE FELIX

2009-09-23T12:14:00.001-07:00

Some pretty amazing things are showing up around Orlando, FL. Eric Althin hips us to a new addition in the strange universe surrounding Bold Hype and co. Click here to see more.

MYSTERIOUS UNIVERSE

2009-09-14T18:55:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited about the resurfacing of the Mysterious Universe podcast. Easily the best listen for about an hour of your highly valuable time, the chaps guide you through a series of news announcements in the realm of the strange and fantastic. You can surf around and see what's going on by clicking here to visit their site.

ERIC WHITE / LP

2009-09-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

I recently had the great honor of splitting hairs with visual magician Eric White. Take a few moments to view his new works, or any of his recent works on his site, and take in what he's doing. The short and exclusive interview is a fair primer to his new work, but in no way scratches the surface of what e is up to. Click here to read more.

SEXY UNDERCARRIAGE

2009-09-01T10:03:00.001-07:00

My latest works have taken on a different dimension all of their own, predominantly due to the decision to really map out the pieces via detailed drawings. To read more, click on this right here.

DETAILS / INSIDER'S GUIDE

2009-08-19T21:32:00.001-07:00

Really exciting news: Details August 2009 issue has an Insider's Guide, and my name came up in it. Thanks to the GenArt folks for the press and updates. Click here to see m ore.

R.CRUMB / UNDERGROUND

2009-08-17T12:21:00.001-07:00

Grand Central Art Center, Cal State's cutting edge museum arm, makes yet another statement with R.Crumb's "Underground." This exhibit gets a high end treatment and was very well received at the institution throughout its run. Click here to check it out.

BL!SSS / NS COVER FEATURE!

2009-08-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited about the latest bit of news - a cover feature in BL!SSS! It's a great way to start a birthday month, and I obviously couldn't be more pleased. The magazines are readily available in the SoCal area, and free for the taking. I'm thinking we'll try to have a bunch on hand for some sort of shindig later in the month. More news on all that soon. But for now, you can check out the whole ish online by clicking here.

If you would like a copy (they're free), send a prepaid SASE large enough to accommodate a 14 x 11 inch magazine.
Nathan Spoor + Blisss / PO Box 1318 / Studio City, CA 90068

PLANET ILLOGICA & HI FRUCTOSE AT THE CON

2009-07-22T22:59:00.000-07:00

I'll be heading out for my first Comicon adventure this weekend. On Friday, I'll have a new painting in Mark Murphy's exhibit coinciding with Planet Illogica's debut. You'll want to know more about that show and the new company by clicking on Mark's blog link, which is that different colored text just before what you're reading now.

The painting is called "New Horizon," and is indicative of not only how I'm feeling but also where life is heading at the moment. I don't have the answers, couldn't tell you where the boat is heading or what that all is up ahead. But I can tell you this, each day is different and contains more than we usually allow ourselves to perceive.

Planet Illogica is a revolutionary way of empowering artists, and you can find out more about their brilliant setup by clicking here.

And really, this is VERY exciting. I'll be signing with Hi Fructose on Saturday, 1pm. I'll try to remember to take some pictures for sure...

MYRIAM MECHITA / THE MEDIUM OF LIFE

2009-07-22T22:55:00.001-07:00

Join our happy little expedition as we weight anchor for parts abroad and visit the land known solely to Myriam Mechita. A dyed in the wool conceptualist and visual acrobat, this French virtuoso will cause one to question the limits of "usual" expectations. But you can see for yourself by clicking right here.

JUICYFRUITSOME CLAYTONFEST

2009-07-21T07:44:00.001-07:00

The Clayton Brothers' latest exhibit, Juicy Fruit at Patrick Painter, is definitely something to take in. In my humble opinion, they are on the cusp of doing what every single artist wishes they could pull off: be a huge success, define themselves artistically, then break down their trademark into a new, again successful, language of their devising. Click here to read more.

KEVIN PETERSON

2009-07-18T14:05:00.001-07:00

Kevin Peterson is one of the more awesome people, not to mention artists, that I've met. He's level headed, calls it like he sees it, and doesn't mind taking a few minutes to say what's on his mind. Click here to get a load of what he's working with and see some of his new work.

CRAZY4CULT3D/OPENING

2009-07-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Got out to fully experience the latest annual crowd fave "Crazy 4 Cult" show last night. I'm not so sure that the links in the blog are working, but click here for the full preview. And to read the exciting commentary from yours truly, just click it right here.

BORIS CUSTOM SHOW

2009-07-15T20:06:00.001-07:00

Friday, July 17 brings us the launch of Nathan Hamill's Picnic Land series, heralded by the first of many custom toys in the line, Boris. Boris is a squirrel that Nathan asked a crew of artists to paint and customize, and thanks to Joe Ledbetter I was invited to participate and make a new Boris character. I don't know why exactly, since I'm not a huge fan and don't follow comics much anymore, but I wanted to make a Green Lantern Boris. And that's just what we see here (below). These customs will be shown at the grand opening at Meltdown on Sunset this Friday night. Very exciting and always exciting to see who shows up at Melt.

LUKE CHUEH / RING OF FIRE

2009-06-30T07:58:00.001-07:00

The latest ish of Hi Fructose is out now! I had the chance to catch up with Luke Chueh about a few things and chat about topics of mutual interest. It's a really good issue all around, with lots of quality pictures. Click here to grab yours while they're in stock, they tend to go fast.

NICOLA VERLATO / 53rd VENICE BIENALLE

2009-06-29T21:17:00.000-07:00

I recently got an exclusive and personal view into Nicola Verlato's latest work for the centerpiece occasion of this year's Bienalle. The 53rd International Art Exhibition, known far and wide as the heralded Venice Bienalle, features a select group of prominent contemporary artists that represent the best of the best in their respective dedications. This year, the Italian Pavilion has been enlarged to over double its previous size. Join us as Verlato gives us the grand debut of his latest site-specific work for the big show. Click here to see more.

VISUAL NOD: FOX NY / GEN ART

2009-06-25T10:39:00.000-07:00

Pretty cool to at least see the work for a flash second on the news (about midway through).

HUGH BROWN / ALLEGEDLY

2009-06-24T17:13:00.001-07:00

Follow us now as we take an educated look at a the latest body of work from Hugh Brown, Grammy Award winning designer and Creative Director of Rhino Records. This latest solo exhibition at Cal State’s tastemaker museum exhibition space, Grand Central Art Center, features a rather fascinating and controversial collection. Curious? Click here for satisfaction.

PONYO

2009-06-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

Very excited to see this...

PARIS SCENERY

2009-06-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

Brian Forrest, the amazing photographer that has shot all of my work since I've lived in LA, and his wife take occasional trips abroad. This season they went to Paris, and they recognized a familiar character in my work and decided to share. So great!

CARRIE ANN BAADE INTERVIEW

2009-06-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

If art being created by an intelligent individual with real passion and insight is for you, then the latest paintings by Carrie Ann Baade should be of some interest. At present she is traveling the land while her new works are hanging at Billy Shire Fine Arts, and enjoying the summer break from the demands of academic rigor. Join us as we are given an insight to her curious works, her thoughts as both artist and professor, and knowledge built up by the one teacher always within arm's reach - life. Click here to read more.

NO FIN NO FUTURE

2009-06-22T07:47:00.001-07:00

I was recently asked by a group called Pangea Seed to participate in a charity event in Japan to stop the harvesting of shark fins. Above you can see my "Shark Mistress" piece for the show. And you can check out the interview we did and click through their website by clicking here.

ARRESTED MOTION / LEDBETTER & SPOOR

2009-06-10T08:23:00.000-07:00

The good folks at Arrested Motion did an overview of a pictorial sort of Joe Ledbetter's and my exhibition openings at Copro Gallery. Click here to check it out...

GREG ESCALANTE + JOE SORREN = MALIBU SUP

2009-06-09T13:04:00.000-07:00

Come along as we get a peek into some ocean action with Juxtapoz' own Greg Escalante. Lately, Greg's been doing some traveling on his board (SUP = Stand Up Paddleboarding), including this recent trip to Malibu with brother Joe Escalante to meet up with Joe Sorren (Juxtapoz #20). Joe, a health as well as art enthusiast, has just come off running an entire marathon barefoot and couldn't resist getting out and paddling around with the boys. Take a look at the action here...

ATTABOY / A TOUCH OF EVIL

2009-06-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

Artist and entrepreneur Attaboy takes time out from polishing up the last bits of his upcoming solo exhibit to tell us a few things that are on his mind. Or at least things that are on his mind now that it was asked. Click here for a preview of new works and insights into Atta's world.

JUXTAPOZ.COM NOD

2009-06-05T15:19:00.001-07:00

Katie from Jux gives the shows a little push from the Jux site, love it!

Click here to see a little more.

BL!SSS BLOG LOVE

2009-06-05T15:17:00.001-07:00

Click here to see more...

BL!SSS / TODD SCHORR

2009-06-02T17:27:00.001-07:00

I'm especially excited about the latest interview that Greg and I got to do. Todd Schorr is an amazing artist and interesting individual to boot. He also clued us in to his latest favorite book, Ross King's "The Judgement of Paris." I'll let you know when I finish how it is, but so far it's engaging from the first page. And I'm already making moves on the second page, so watch out. Todd took time out of working out details for his two upcoming retrospective exhibitions to tell us about his new book, "American Surreal," and fill us in on some things we might not have known before.

Click here to scout out the pages on my site, complete with link to view the whole magazine online.

HI FRUCTOSE INTERVIEW

2009-05-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

Just finished an interview about the latest show with Annie from Hi Fructose. Click here to see the full article...

MARION PECK / LADIES & CLOWNS

2009-05-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

The lovely and enigmatic Marion Peck graces the walls of Sloan Fine Art this week with her new body of work, "Ladies & Clowns." But whilst she was finishing off the works and then packing them up and handling all that shipping business, Marion took time out to share with us a few of the finer points of her beautiful work. Join us as we take an educational and entertaining peek into her amazingly crafted world, including her thoughts on life, travel and some sage advice that we could all do well to heed. Click here for the full and exclusive view...

INTERVIEW WITH MARK MURPHY

2009-05-14T13:25:00.001-07:00

Nathan Spoor is preparing a large body of masterful paintings that look to invite you in while taunting you with dream like riddles. Thankfully, Nathan has left an assortment of visual clues along the way, guiding us through his imaginative, well constructed worlds.
Nathan was kind enough to share a glimpse into his artistic universe and upcoming show at Copro in June. Click here to read on and enjoy.

WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE / CHET ZAR + JAMES ZAR

2009-05-12T12:39:00.001-07:00

The month of May is home to a very unique display of talent. The amazing Chet Zar(v.11) will be showcasing a group of new works alongside his father, fantastic narrative artist James Zar. The exhibit, "When Worlds Collide," will feature the latest and greatest of each master painter's forte. The fellas have been gracious enough to take some time to give us sneak peek into the new works, as well a few thoughts on a variety of subjects. Follow along as we journey into the worlds of this mighty father/son duo...Complete exclusive interview, studio shots, and more here!

COLIN JOHNSON / HYPERCOLLAGE

2009-05-11T10:28:00.003-07:00

Colin Johnson is immersed in a loving obsession that he calls his "hyper-collage" works. Having an undaunted interest in his mercurial pursuits has lead him on many an intricate visual adventure, yet leaves him enough of a toehold in the physical world to relate some of his thoughts on art and life to us. From the cold tundra known as the Lands of Eternal Winter (well not really, but it's more than cold) deep in the heart of Minnesota, one artist finds a way to spend the hours on a very creative and personal pursuit. Click here to find out more.

COMING SOON

2009-05-07T23:10:00.000-07:00

IT'S AN ORIGINAL

2009-04-28T09:36:00.001-07:00

Greg Simkins, Kris Lewis, Nathan Spoor

Nathan Spoor with painting, "The Soft Opening"

The latest event with GenArt, Details, Penguin and Fred Segal was a blast. We did take some photos, which I'll get resized and put up in a bit since they're much funnier than the professional shots. But seriously, you can't go wrong with having too many good photos, right? Click here to check out the official pics by the Details photographer, and the Lola shots are on the way...

PLAYSTATION / COACHELLA

2009-04-21T07:35:00.000-07:00

The third weekend in April was the big Coachella music festival in Indio, CA. I accompanied Lola out to the showgrounds and met up with fellow funster Joe Vaux, as the two of them prepared for their meet and greet at the Sony Playstation tent. After a brief settling in, the fun quickly began: new games, fun people and the best, air conditioning! And the new Playstation thing comes with all kinds of new toys, including some way of taking pictures and then different filters for distorting things out. Here Joe, Lola and Raoul show us how it's done. Then they woke me up from my special couch nap and got me in on the silliness.

I got zero good pictures of the rest of the event, mostly due to not wanting to take out the camera every stop to take shots of all the foot traffic. But I can say that Franz Ferdinand, Leonard Cohen and Morrissey were all amazing live, and Paul McCartney is still very much Paul McCartney.

But here's one gratuitous stage shot, showing Leonard Cohen entertaining the mass with his slow and still resonant crooning.

TODD SCHORR / THE WORLD WE LIVE IN

2009-04-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Todd Schorr’s The World We Live In features four massive new paintings by Schorr in his latest solo exhibition in five years. Why five years? Take a good look at these works in person, or in photos, and you might get a peek into what takes a master craftsman such as Schorr a few extra days to shape up such a task. Greg Escalante and Nathan Spoor take us on a brief photo tour of the latest exhibition of Todd Schorr’s masterworks here…

KOFIE / VINTAGE FUTURISM

2009-04-17T08:18:00.000-07:00

Kofie One (Juxtapoz #73) has put together possibly his most ambitious collection of works to date: Vintage Futurism, held last month at the infamous 01 Gallery in Downtown LA. This new body of work features the latest evolution of this died-in-the-wool aesthete, a true Los Angeles native unafraid of staying relevant though his continued progression. Join us for a more in depth look at Kofie and his dynamic works here…

CLARE ROJAS / AMERICAN REALITIES

2009-04-15T17:50:00.001-07:00

Greg Escalante and Nathan Spoor take a look at the exhibit American Realities, featuring the latest works from superstars Clare Rojas, Andrew Jeffrey Wright and the elusive ‘Lydia Fong.’ With all the artists on hand and performing in one way or another at the opening, it was quite the event and entertained eager crowds for hours on end. Follow the link for more coverage here…

KEN GARDUNO / CHANNELS

2009-04-14T14:41:00.001-07:00

Ken Garduno is a fascinating study in narrative illustration, conjuring images of strange scientific studies, time travel, interdimensional communication as well as the age-old tale of inner turmoil and the search for love. In his debut solo exhibition, "Channels," at Black Maria Gallery, he continues his growing repertoire of distinguished and interconnected visuals. And recently, Ken gave us a little insight on his latest body of works and his life in general. Click here to follow us in...

BOLD HYPE / SAY WHEN

2009-04-09T10:59:00.001-07:00

Bold Hype , a hot spot for local and international talent, has an exhibit on view featuring an impressive lineup of artists. "Say When," curated by gallery owner Eric Althin and artist Nathan Spoor, brings a cohesive array of works from 15 artists from near and far to the capitol of the Orlando new contemporary art sphere. Click here to get a peek into the experience.

In addition to the awesome photo job done by the BH crew, now on flickr ( Click here to view flickr pics), Eric has also sent over a fun little press mention. It's somewhat of a lead-in to the show from the perspective of an early viewer dropping in on opening night: Click here for the Orlando Weekly sniping

Congrats to Jason Li-MON, Andrew James Jones and Amy Sol for rocking it out, and the to the rest of us that "held their ground" on the walls.

HI FRUCTOSE / THOMAS DOYLE

2009-04-07T18:50:00.000-07:00

The latest issue of Hi Fructose bears a strong portrayal of artist Thomas Doyle. I say strong because it's a great little feature spot, with amazing images and some decent text on the artist's work, process, thoughts and statements. Actually, this issue is really amazing in its own right. Click here to check it out further and grab yours before it's an ebay item!

BL!SSS / MARTIN WITTFOOTH

2009-04-07T18:45:00.001-07:00

The latest artist spotlight comes in the form of the amazing Martin Wittfooth gracing the cover of BL!SSS magazine. In honor of his upcoming volume with Murphy Fine Art Books, the magazine has featured an excerpt from the forward that Greg and I put together for the book. Super cool if you can find it. Or click here for a peek.

ELIZABETH McGRATH / SHADOWLESS SUMMER

2009-04-07T08:06:00.001-07:00

Liz McGrath (HF v.9) is quite the busy gal. She currently lives and works in Los Angeles with her husband Morgan Slade, with whom she plays in the band Miss Derringer, as well as her two tiny hairless dogs Blue and King Tut. Her work can be found in myriad publications, including a published collection of past works "Everything that Creeps". She has exhibited her work around the globe and is about to embark on her first solo show in NYC! Follow us in for an exclusive sneak peek at Liz's latest treats!

DAVID SIMON / LONG BEACH MUSEUM OF ART

2009-04-07T08:03:00.001-07:00

Greg Escalante and Nathan Spoor take us on a mini-tour of the exhibition currently on display at the Long Beach Museum of Art, David Simon: Dark Forest. This exhibition features the latest of Simon’s impressive sculptures, centered around the theme of a particular avant-garde theatrical production. Also included is a rundown of the Museum’s history and relevance to Southern California culture, including choice pieces from the permanent collection. For more goodies, click here.