More often than not we attend gallery openings all over LA with our friends and colleagues that work within the art industry. They’re comfortable with the scene, know what to expect, and digest the art through an agreeable lens, fundamentally understanding the work if not also enjoying it. In other words we almost always attend gallery openings in an art-world bubble. But every so often we find ourselves at openings with friends that exist outside this realm (you know, friends that work as teachers, nurses, personal trainers—important regular people things—normies if you will) and we are amused and refreshed by their observations that keep us on our toes. 

Such was the case this weekend as we stopped by Paul Heyer’s show “I Am The Sky” at Night Gallery, a notoriously hip gallery near on the edge of Downtown LA. We attended with two of our friends from out of town, both in their early 30s, both having nothing to do with art. Here are a few of their collective thoughts and questions during two-and-a-hours at “I Am The Sky” : 

“That sky art is easy on the eyes.”

“People don’t look that interested. They’re far more interested in who is here and who’s looking at them.”

“There seems to be some kind of unspoken competition on who has the most low maintenance look.”

“Would this be considered a PBR scene? Didn’t expect so much Tecate.”

“This actual space is very impressive. Large. Very Large.”

“The artist is probably stoked right now.”

“These lights are unforgiving. Is florescence a mandatory thing?”

“Why does everyone stand in a cluster by the front door? Is it because that’s where the vodka is? “

“The outdoor fire pit area is cozy. Is that flipped over Volvo, art? Wait, is the fire pit art?”

“Is this artist a man or a woman? Is he the one in the high-wasted dad jeans?”

“Is anyone actually going to buy anything tonight? I don’t see prices.” 

“I like that women own this gallery.”

“Do you know this crowd from art school? Are they all still in art school?”

“We don’t feel cool enough to be here. My linen shirt isn’t cutting it.” 

“Whatever is happening on the walls in that other room hurts my head. Is that on purpose you think?” 

“We didn’t know there would be dogs here!”

“How does anyone know to be here?”

“I don’t think this art matches the crowd.”

“I’d give it a Yelp 4/5”  

“I Am The Sky” will be up at Night Gallery until May 21st. Bring all your friends!