Chutes and Ladders Recap Time

Last night I unveiled some work at the grand opening of the Chutes and Ladders art show (aptly named due to the theme being about childhood memories), hosted by &Them, and I’m glad I did. Not only was it my first show in quite some time, but it was in the famous Hotel des Arts! If it sounds vaguely familiar, but you just can’t place it, let me spell it out for you: This is the hotel where they’ve had some of our generations greatest artists to design and paint the rooms. Artists like Buff Monster, Sam Flores, Shepard Fairey, Jeremy Fish and David Choe just to name a few. So you can understand me being a little bit start struck (doesn’t happen often) to have my art hanging mere yards away from ENTIRE ROOMS created by people in this industry I really look up to. Nevertheless, I was happy to be a part of it all. It was an amazing night, and I ‘m glad my work was well received .

When we got there, the hotel was already abuzz and alive, the hallways teeming with people checking out the art, drinking and having an all-around good time. After the customary hand-shakes, polite and man typed hugs to various friends, I made my way around the hotel to take it all in. If you’ve ever been there, you know the hallways can get a bit packed… So there was a lot of “excuse me’s” handed out as I worked my way through the crowd of observers. Now, back when I dropped of my paintings earlier last week, I didn’t get to see them hung or get to check out the rest of the work. I kinda wanted to preserve the mystery of it all, and wait for the actual show. That being said, I was pleasantly surprised at how well the pieces were represented… and you can’t be mad at seeing the all the artists’ childhood photos and answers to the questions. My only regret, is that I didn’t know or get to meet all of the artists. I would have loved to “talk shop” with everyone involved, but it was hard to tell who was who as there were 20+ of us and no way of really knowing. Ah well, there’s always next time.

I hung two pieces for the show… coincidentally, they’re the first two paintings to be up in my newly renovated site. The first, which you may be familiar with, was “The Passport” and the second was “Potential”. I’ve already talked a bit about “The Passport” in an earlier post, and this post is starting to look lengthy, so I save the explanations and progress shots of “Potential” for next week. You can shimmy over to the artwork section to check em out further though if you’re so inclined. Anyways… One of my favorite things to do is to sit back and listen as people discuss my work. A task made difficult last night as several friends & family members decided to “put me on blast”. It’s not that I don’t like talking about my work, it’s more that, people tend to be a little too polite when they know that you’re the artist. They don’t always give an honest opinion when they’re scared of hurting your feelings. It’s a nice gesture, surely, but I want to hear what really crossed your mind when you looked at it, and after that, I’ll happily share my intentions. Then the conversation can continue as we have both opened each others’ eyes to a new perspective. I’ve always said that one of my favorite things about art, is that it can mean so many different things to everyone that views it. And even though I put a lot of thought in the backstory of my work, I’m happiest when someone shares that it meant something else to them. There’s a certain bond that develops from that conversation. An understanding, if you will. That I made something with my heart and somehow managed to use that to connect with yours. A bit romantic, I know, but hey, that’s art for ya.

“The Passport” was purchased that night. And while it’s always a bit saddening to see a painting leave, it made me happy that I actually got to talk with the buyer about her thoughts on the piece. It felt like I could trust her with it, the way you could trust a best friend with your innermost secret. I was even more surprised that she took it home then and there. I hardly got a chance to say good-bye… But don’t fret, dearest reader, I can assure you that it’s going to a great home to someone who understands the feelings it takes to create something from your hardships.

Some of the people from my art group, Individual Collective, showed up too. Ben was one of the first IC cats I saw walking around. he’s been one of our younger regulars, and has a mom who’s awesome enough to drive him up to check out the show. After that, I saw one of my favorite people, Marielle. Due to her dedication to school (unlike me) she’s been MIA, but I was glad she could come through! She said some very nice things about me once upon a time. I’ll never forget them. Ant was one floor up hanging out with one of my old co-workers Anitra. Ant’s been my friend as long as I’ve been in the bay, and probably knows me better than just about any one else on the planet, much to his dismay. After that I ran into Jess, another core member of IC, one of my favorite artists, and someone who has a twisted sense of humor on par to mine. The always popular DYNO was showing that night as well and he came out the gates strong with a piece that was one of my favorites of his to date. He even introduced us to Pizza Orgasmica after the show… a place I will definitely be returning. Even my mom, step-dad, and auntie showed up last night! Now, I’m always apprehensive to invite family to my events… Even though they would support me with the utmost love, I just know that an art show isn’t always for everyone. And I’d hate for people to show up out of obligation rather than true interest. That being said, they had a great time, and I’m always happy to show them bits and pieces of my world. There were many other people that surprised me with their attendance last night. And I want to make sure that everyone that was there understands how truly grateful I am. I’m eager to share my mind with anyone willing to see it, but there are a few choice people of which I am truly fortunate to have their support. I would not be where I am without them. Thank you.

I hold a firm belief that I don’t think that anyone in any field can make it on their own. Everyone requires a helping hand now and then, and hopefully we’re aware of that need and ensure that we pay back our kindnesses. That being said, I was inducted into this show due to the recommendation from a good friend of mine, JToddO. If you know Todd, you know he’s a mountain of a man, with a heart to match. He’s as sincere as they come, a joy to talk to and a very talented individual. He’s always makes me feel like I’m a better person than I really am, and I hope every now and then, I return that feeling. So if you’re reading this, buddy; Thank you. Sincerely. For everything.

Lastly: Big ups to the &Them crew. Chevonne, Kev, Neal, Francis and anyone else who help set up the show. You guys remained professional enough that I felt comfortable leaving my work in your hands, but down to earth enough that I felt at home when I needed to speak to any of you. It seems like you guys have a good thing going, and I look forward to hopefully working with you all in the future. I wish I coulda had more time to get to know everyone… but unless the rapture really does come tomorrow, there’s always next time.

If for some reason, you couldn’t make it out last night, The show will hang until at least July. So be sure to get there before then and soak it all in. Photos don’t do it justice, but here are some for your viewing pleasure…