“If you’re looking for one art show to attend this year, I’d like to suggest Thinkspace’s
upcoming 5 Year Anniversary blow out. Established in 2005, Thinkspace is one of the few galleries who doesn’t just follow trends, they start them.” – MyModernMet.com
’5 Years / 5 Questions’ with Jeff Ramirez
Tell us a little bit about your piece for Thinkspace’s ‘5 Year Anniversary Show’ this November?
The piece is called “Smile” and for me, it is about finding a moment of beauty in the midst of turmoil. Much like a teenager’s school portrait, this image is a snapshot of the place between fear and control.
What were you doing back in 2005 when Thinkspace started?
I was still getting settled in LA, working like crazy and trying to paint when I could find some free time. It was a pretty rough schedule, but I wouldn’t be here now without all that hard work, so it was worth it.
Name 5 things you can’t live without in your studio?
Fresh air and daylight lamps are pretty key. I recently started displaying my reference photos on an iPad and that is a very important development. I absolutely must have good music, Netflix, or Stern shows to keep me sane during the long hours in the studio. And, of course, my dog. She is the world’s worst assistant but she is pretty great at sleeping under my easel and helping me procrastinate.
Where do you hope to be 5 years from now?
Hopefully, still working and growing. I have so many paintings that I want to do that it just might take me five years to get to most of them.
What have you got coming up in 2011?
After the “New Realism” group show in December with you, I am going to start on the work for my two-person show with Pakayla Rae Biehn at Thinkspace in May/June. I’m feeling really inspired and I think this show will be a big one. I will also be in a few group shows with Thinkspace and Gallery 1988.
Artist website: www.jefframirez.com
Check out the ‘Sneak Peek’ for our 5 Year Anniversary group show here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/thinkspace/sets/72157625035068712/
‘5 Year Anniversary Show’
Group exhibition showcasing 48 artists representing our past, present and future with a featured installation from Johnny ‘KMNDZ’ Rodriguez
Opening Reception: Sat, Nov. 6th, 2010 7-10PM
On view: Nov. 6th – Nov. 27th, 2010
Thinkspace / 6009 Washington Blvd in Culver City / www.thinkspacegallery.com
