At the Edge of the Sun is organized by an intimate constellation of twelve artists who have connected over the past decade through artistic discourse and shared experiences of living in Los Angeles. The exhibit convenes works informed by underground economies, California landscapes, night life, local histories, systemic architecture, surveillance, youth culture, public transportation, backyard kickbacks and more. At the Edge of the Sun collectivizes a nod to personal contexts and the artists’ sense of time and place, turning away from familiar mainstream stereotypes of Los Angeles in favor of embracing their own landmarks, memories, communities and visions of their city.
Though vast and diverse in their creative queries, the artists share a fusion of vernacular and industrial techniques with installation, painting, photographic and sculptural practices and are active in incorporating inherited skills, trades and practices that include, hand sign painting, car customization, truck detailing, adobe construction and small-scale ceramics. Introducing these modes of making within their practices allows them to pay homage to and build on the legacies of generations of artists that have been generative in and expanding the bounds of cultural production.
In the last year, the artists have met regularly to discuss and plan how to shape an exhibition that could reflect not only their individual practices, but make visible connecting threads by harnessing moments of convergence that elucidate a history of collaboration, support and camaraderie amongst the group. In addition to the exhibition, the artists have sought out peers that include designers, filmmakers, writers and photographers that will contribute to the expansion of the show beyond the gallery walls. The exhibition will be accompanied by a book with an introductory essay by Dr. Rose Salseda featuring interviews and photos with the artists.
The artists participating in the exhibition are:
Diana Yesenia Alvarado
Michael Alvarez
Mario Ayala
Karla Ekaterine Canseco
rafa esparza
Alfonso Gonzalez Jr.
Ozzie Juarez
Maria Maea
Jaime Muñoz
Guadalupe Rosales
Gabriela Ruiz
Shizu Saldamando
Read the Los Angeles Times article Being in community is a choice. And these L.A. artists keep picking each other here.