On Saturday, April 18, enjoy an opening reception for "Minor Identity Crisis" at Essentia in Santa Monica. The solo exhibition featuring the work of Gus Harper will debut some 20 works along with an installation.
Store owners said Essentia may be mattress store, but it's also an active hub for local community artists. "Essentia is a great place to have an art show — great wall space and perfect for the installation piece I have planned," said Harper. "This is a large piece that hangs from the ceiling. It will be highly visible from the street as well. It will hang from the rafters of the mattress store."
Harper explained that the exhibit is made up of very colorful paintings (and an installation) that are heavy on symbolism. "A lot of the pieces are about overcoming fear," said Harper. "There are usually components that symbolize the viewer of the piece, fear, and tools to overcome fear. It's pretty open to interpretation. I'm interested in the way that humanity creates and meets fear."
The art reception and opening takes place from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at Essentia, 2430 Main St. For more information, call (310) 450-7819 or visit gusharperart.com.
