Sure, Why Not? The Art of Dave Kinsey
Written By: jonny.gotham
Date: October 24, 2007
Comments: 0
I was lost. Wandering streets filled with villainous shadow, small glints of light catch my eye. Upon further inspection some light reveals miscellaneous debris, while others shine off of the eyes of hidden transients. The evening wind howled in the empty, and yet not–so–empty streets as I searched for the BLK/MRKT Gallery in Culver City. I’m finally greeted by lights and the low murmur of art patrons, a defiant guard sits at the door — part spook, part usher.
I sidestep the figure by the door, and a short walkway ramp brings me to the real event… Dave Kinsey, Sure Why Not. I’ve only been to a handful of art show openings in my life, but I must say, BLK/MRKT did an amazing job at presenting the work. Past exhibits (viewable on their site) are equally gorgeous, but this show just coincidentally happened to be for the gallery’s owner… Dave Kinsey.
Kinsey’s art is gritty, and it packs a lot of emotion into each stroke. Wrinkled faces, aged hands, stars and crooked stripes, explosions of color and contrast. Each piece has its own grand presence, thought provoking and deep, but you can’t help the feeling that you should approach with caution. I stared into each piece and its haunting interior world, fearful that the depths would swallow me and steal me away in its fury… fearful that the figures would grab me and pull me into their existence.
Kinsey uses muted earth tones to contrast bold strokes of blood–orange, white, and deep, deep black. Some paintings are done upon canvas with scattered sheets from old novels layered on top. Interestingly enough, he occasionally strips away pieces of the work after the painting has completed, giving yet another dimension to his work as you can clearly make out novel fragments behind the tears.
I couldn’t help but take everything in, and think instantly to myself, “I need to do something like this. Yes. At least once.”
I moved through the pieces quickly for a first pass, and returned for deeper consideration. With a varied crowd, peripheral, unintentional eavesdropping revealed critiques, fascinations, reflections, inspiration, and much more. I really enjoyed his work and my time at the opening. I loved looking at each brush stroke, stenciled letter, imperfection and the overall stress that each painting put in your face.
The gallery was bustling all evening, with a very light–hearted, “everyone is welcome” demeanor. Free beer, water, wine, and soda rested in the back, while music played softly in the background. I couldn’t help but take everything in, and think instantly to myself, “I need to do something like this. Yes. At least once.”
Below, you will find some of the photographs I took while at the show. If you have the opportunity, I would definitely go to the show at BLK/MRKT, and see firsthand what the big deal is.
