(An overhead shot of Kurt Cobain's many notebooks, by Geoff Moore.
Courtesy KM Arts)
February is a busy month in Los Angeles. Award shows abound (Grammy's and Oscars, for example). The streets are clogged with red carpets, not to mention the L.A. Marathon and Valentine's Day (the last two simultaneously no less). Thus there is a need for a little respite from the glitz, the glam and the runners -- consider this your go to guide for art to see this February.
Kurt Cobain Lives On:
Photographer Geoff Moore's first solo photo show debuts on February 11th at KM Arts on La Cienega, with never before seen images of personal items he shot for the estate of the Nirvana front man. In a statement from Moore, he says: "In 2008, I was asked to photograph images of Kurt Cobain's possessions for the book Cobain Unseen. His most personal items from his archives were brought to a Los Angeles studio under tight security for a one day photo session."
Geoff Moore, February 11th - March 26th
KM Fine Arts, 814 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069
(Endorsement by Geoff Moore. Courtesy of KM Arts)
New Gallery on the Block (and right across from LACMA):
For over 30 years the gallery Sprüth Magers has been promoting and cultivating developments in the contemporary art scene overseas. And starting February 23rd, they will take up residence in Los Angeles on Wilshire Blvd. Monika Sprüth and Philomene Magers represent such established artists as Barbara Kruger, Cindy Sherman, Rosemarie Trockel and Jenny Holzer, and will premiere their new space with another artist they have worked with for three decades, John Baldessari.
John Baldessari, February 23rd - April 2nd
Sprüth Magers, 5900 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 405 Los Angeles, CA 90035
(John Baldessari It's Possible, Although... Photo: via Sprüth Magers)
Mixed Media Allows for Artistic Interpretive Dance:
Harlem based Aaron Fowler embarks on his first solo show at Diane Rosenstein entitled, "Blessings On Blessings." In a series of new assemblage-paintings that showcase his experiences and the lives of his family and friends in both a personal narrative and an epic journey through contemporary America. The title of this exhibition, which includes twelve portraits, tableaux and medallions created in the past year, refers to lyrics from "Blessings", a 2015 song by American rapper Big Sean.
Blessings on Blessings, January 30th - March 12th
Diane Rosenstein Gallery, 831 North Highland Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90038
(Blessings on Blessings, by Aaron Fowler.
Image courtesy of Diane Rosenstein Gallery)
Have Your Cake and Not Eat It Too:
A riff on the Vegas sensation Zumanity will take place starting February 13th at Think Tank in DTLA. A complete takeover of the gallery, this installation by artists Scott Hove and Baker's Son is made up of a tour through six "chambers" filled with everything from tech-based mirror mazes to an ice cream truck, a lounge area with local vendors and a stage with bar.
(Devil's Food, by Scott Hove. Courtesy of Think Tank Gallery).
(Execucide by Scott Hove. Courtesy of Think Tank Gallery)
The 7,000 sq ft walking tour that's been described as a "Hood Candyland," also contains a secret 1950's style diner in the back with food served by local chefs that will fill the calendar during its 30-day run.
Break Bread: February 13th - March 14th
Think Tank Gallery, 939 Maple Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015