by Ariadna Zierold

Dave Kinsey’s latest work “The Modern Condition” is a set of 9 works on canvas composed of acrylic and collage (old book pages, discarded mail and paper), in medium and large scale.

His work captures the universal essence of the human condition mainly through an energetic portrayal of urban figures. Working spontaneously, and utilizing a range of mediums, he constructs multi-layered, textured environments easily likened to the complexities of contemporary life. His portraits depict beings who are both triumphant in their defiant stance to their surroundings, and tragic, as they transmit a visual display of raw emotion and jangled nerves.

These latest works are a continuation of where Kinsey left off with his last show “Cusion of Memory” at the Library Street Collective in Detroit. He is currently taking cues from the natural world when it comes to the overall aesthetic of these sculpturesque paintings, set within dreamlike landscapes using detailed yet suggestive imagery, tones and textures.

 

These works are imbued with semi-abstracted figures and objects that become metaphors or symbols that ambiguously reference contemporary issues such as overpopulation, money, power, climate change, consumerism and the everyday dynamics of contemporary life.

“The most difficult thing about creating a painting is going through the process of finding a connection in what I see and feel in the world around me, while also seeking a visual harmony between the beauty and chaos of the human experience.” Dave Kinsey

This body of work encapsulates that balance and provides a diverse and energetic aesthetic of that environment.

Watch this studio visit.

 

 

Upper Playground & David Choe are pleased to announce that customers will now receive a FREE sticker pack with the purchase of any David Choe related product. The pack includes 10 stickers of new designs, as well as old favorites. This offer is available for a limited time, so get it while you can!

Fifty24SF Gallery and Upper Playground is pleased to present Sam Flores’ next solo show, ” A Light in the Darkness”.  The show opening this Saturday, December 6th at 6PM will feature new works by the artist focused on his continuous themes of balance between “good vs evil” light vs the dark. 

“Throughout this new body of work, I’m focusing on light that comes from a dark place. People at one time or another experience negative moments in their lives, situations they feel that they can’t outrun, like they are stuck in a shadow. No matter how dark things get, the most important thing, is to be able to hold on to the vision of that light, in order to keep hope and faith alive.

Without darkness you would never be able to notice how bright something can shine. I want to illuminate the human spirit and inspire people to hang on, strive for something better, keep their dreams, passions and love alive by holding onto the light, no matter how dark things seem around them. I have been fortunate enough in my life to have people shine a light on me, help keep me on my path and keep me from getting lost. Having someone there to help us navigate our own darkness, whether it’s our subconscious, a thought, idea or even a creature, we all need to have “A Light in the Darkness.”” – Sam Flores

Upper Playground x Jeff Soto is proud to release today the Snake Skull Tee in Black and the New Growth Skull Tee in Light Blue:

Combining traditional painting and graffiti techniques, Jeff Soto once again delivers on these new designs with his distinct color palette and unique style.

Check out more of his latest works here or if you’re new to his work, pick up a copy of our documentary, The Run Up to watch his interview.