Pearl C. Hsiung, 13-panel painting, oil-based enamel, vinyl mural on window. At the Hammer.
MADE IN L.A. is the first major biennial in Los Angeles, a collaborative effort organized by the UCLA Hammer Museum and LAXART, a dynamic nonprofit space located in Culver City. Art production has exploded in L.A., fueled by the prevalence of outstanding art schools, affordable studio space and a town whose “no limits” ethos is a global magnet for artists. The biennial’s goal is to expose, promote and celebrate this proliferation via the 60 emerging and under-recognized artists featured in the show.
LAXART, building exterior, mural by 777 Crew.
On the weekend of June 2, the three venues housing the biennial opened on successive days. The Hammer drew record crowds on Friday night; LAXART dominated Saturday afternoon with the opening of the collaborative, Slanguage; and Barnsdall Park Municipal Gallery in Los Feliz drew the community on Sunday. Uniting the venues is SoundMap, a mobile audio experience, prepared for viewer listening while traversing the city to the various locations. (Download free from iTunes.) The biennial is characterized not only by the visual component, but also by a roster of events that includes music, performance and public programming through September 2. In addition, an irreverent boardwalk biennial at the legendary Venice Beach Ocean Front Walk will take place July 13-15.
Liz Glynn, "III", 2010, reclaimed wooden forklift pallets, housing for performances, 16 x 27 x 27'
As for the art itself, the range is broad in terms of technique and execution. While residing in L.A., the artists hail from different cities and countries, representing an international array of concerns and viewpoints. Painting and sculpture are featured alongside multiple videos, installations and architecturally integrated pieces.
