Had a chance to visit the studio of the Clayton Brothers a couple weeks back as they prepared for their first major show in Los Angeles in six years. This will be their first major collection of works in Los Angeles since they rocked La Luz De Jesus back in 2003 with their epic ‘Six Foot Eleven’ show. I still remember how blown away I was by that show. Simply epic in every sense of the word. For those that missed that one, do all you can to make it to Santa Monica this Saturday.

‘Jumbo Fruit’ will open this Saturday, July 18th at both of Patrick Painter’s galleries within Bergamot Station over in Santa Monica. Very ambitious and as you can see below, Rob and Christian have more than stepped up the challenge. I can not wait to see these works all finished and hanging in all their glory this Saturday. A big thanks to Rob & Christian for having me out.

The Clayton Brothers work together closely to construct objects that are both narrative and deeply personal in nature. Front and center are the unique people, animals, and places that occupy the outskirts of the American psyche. These works are created in an obsessively rich, cartoon-inspired manner and often incorporate related audio elements.

They’ve a rich history and I highly recommend picking up any of their books. Enjoy the pictures below that offer a glimpse into the creative process behind the works that will make up their ‘Jumbo Fruit’ exhibit(s) opening this Saturday. Above, view a picture of the pinch pot that was the initial point of inspiration for this show, found at a thrift shop, it’s now a cherished item in their studio. Sometimes the simplest things can be the catalyst for amazing works.

Dave MacDowell has taken it to the next level for this Thursday’s ‘Crazy4Cult 3D’ show at Gallery 1988. He’s combined a cult movie, with a cult artist AND a cult album cover. Shown above, his ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocalate Factory’ inspired piece pays homage to the amazing work of Robert Williams, that also happens to grace one of rock n’ roll’s greatest albums of all time (as well as being the influence for the album’s title), Guns ‘N Roses “Appetite For Destruction”. View the original work here from Robert Williams, which was on view at this past December’s Art Basel in Miami. A true grand slam of pop culture goodness from Mr. MacDowell for sure.

Thurs, July 17th 7-11PM
Gallery 1988 Los Angeles
7020 Melrose Ave in Los Angeles / 323.937.7088
www.nineteeneightyeight.com

More on this very soon… save the dates, you will NOT want to miss this one.