Contact Person: Grace Kim ( graceykim0208@gmail.co, @curatorgraceykim)
Opening reception: Sep 30, 2023 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Exhibition Date: Sep 30 – Oct 29, 2023
Viewing Hours: Wed through Mon – 11:30 to 7:00
Title: “Sorry But Not Sorry”: Unveiling Unapologetic Artistry
In the heart of Santa Monica’s vibrant art scene, a transformative exhibition is set to unfold, bringing together unapologetic artistry and a dynamic urban environment. Curated by Grace Kim, “Sorry But Not Sorry” presents the works of three exceptional artists—IAMAUGIERAY, Mikki 100, and JuJu—in the open-air courtyard of BlackMarket on Sawtelle Boulevard. Against this backdrop, the exhibition not only celebrates the artists’ unique voices but also highlights the intersection of culture, identity, and creativity.
IAMAUGIERAY: Unveiling the Journey
From a young age, IAMAUGIERAY embarked on a creative journey that began with audio as his chosen medium of expression. Through his evolution as a self-taught visual mix media artist and pluralist, Ray’s art resonated with movement and the rawness of freestyle painting. His story is one of resilience and determination. He found his voice in a world where the representation of black artists was limited. IAMAUGIERAY’s mission is clear to express himself unapologetically on canvas and other media, inspiring young black artists to follow suit. His works reflect his experiences and the vibrant culture of Los Angeles, creating a powerful narrative that speaks to the heart of artistic exploration.
Mikki 100: Memories Unearthed
Mikki 100 , a Los Angeles based visual artist and graphic designer, approaches her work with a fusion of design, print, and sculpture. Her creations seamlessly weave personal memories and her Korean American identity into the fabric of public locations and community spaces. Through her art, she invites viewers to explore the intricate connections between individual recollections and the broader tapestry of shared experiences. Mikki 100’s work is a testament to the deep interplay between personal history and the places that shape us, resulting in a captivating visual narrative that resonates on both personal and communal levels. As visitors engage with Mikki 100’s pieces, they explore the intersections of individual identity and communal narrative that define the city.
JuJu: Disrupting the Familiar
In the realm of abstract art, JuJu’s unique perspective takes center stage. With an intriguing philosophy on altering familiarity, JuJu challenges viewers to disassociate from the ordinary and engage with the extraordinary. Through abstraction, he taps into a spectrum of emotions, from curiosity to confusion, inspiring a deeper examination of the pieces before us. His exploration of the subjective nature of art invites us to question what defines art and encourages us to see the world through a different lens. JuJu presents a thought-provoking notion: art as a lifestyle, a brand, and an open canvas for interpretation. He captures the essence of versatility, encouraging audiences to embrace their own perspectives and interpretations, ultimately blurring the lines between art and life itself.
“Sorry But Not Sorry” is more than an art exhibition, it is a celebration of the unapologetic spirit that drives artists to break free from the confines of convention. IAMAUGIERAY, Mikki 100, and JuJu each contribute their unique narratives and creative visions to an artistic tapestry that reflects the diversity of experiences, identities, and perspectives within our society. As visitors walk through the exhibition, they are invited to explore the power of unapologetic expression and engage in a dialogue that transcends traditional boundaries. “Sorry But Not Sorry” challenges us to reimagine art’s role in our lives, igniting conversations that resonate long after the exhibition’s close.
Exhibition Location: BLACKMARKET
2060 Sawtelle Blvd, Santa Monica
Exhibition Duration: September 30 through October 29, 2023
Opening Reception: September 30 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Viewing Hours: Wednesday through Monday 11:30 – 7:00
Curator email/instagram: graceykim0208@gmail.com @curatorgraceykim
Exhibition artist: IAMAUGIERAY @iamaugieray
Mikki 100 @mmmikkalous
JuJu @mngos_juju
