Extended summer weather in this late October made last Saturday the perfect evening to enjoy the stretch of galleries on La Cienega’s gallery row in Culver City. We arrived a little early to ensure ample time to meander around, as it’s customary to stumble upon an unanticipated opening or two. As fate would have it, much like a bird attracted to shiny objects, our attention was caught by the vibrant and luscious photos of Peter Ivancovich in his show “Natural/Wonder” at Fabrik Gallery.

Peter Ivancovich and viewers

I had never been to this gallery, but I was seduced by Ivancovich’s colorful and sensual photos inspired by 17th-Century Dutch still life paintings. Beyond simply being aesthetically pleasing, they surprised and were heightened into a contemporary context with additions of neon hues and materials such as bubble wrap. I talked with Ivancovich who revealed he had a background in fashion photography, which was apparent in the work’s chic delivery. The artist himself was dressed in a flashy top depicting tigers in the jungle and when I mentioned his ensemble complemented his works flawlessly he proclaimed that it’s because his top was #Gucci. Thanks to the artist and his lively works, the show’s energy was buzzing, but alas after Ivancovich’s sweet treat for the eye, there remained more to see.

Work by Peter Williams at LDJ

We carried onward with excitement to Luis De Jesus gallery where we were met by the work of Peter Williams for his opening, “River of Styx.” The show’s array of colorful, multi-figurative, narrative pieces was seemingly bright and cheery, yet it alluded to a heavier history. With the political climate so out of wack, Williams’s images address topics quiet poignantly. I had the treat of talking to the delightful artist as he explained that his paintings composed of many marks, were in fact not pointillism. Instead, he utilizes poetic formations of dots to piece together memory representing many voices in one narrative. Williams’ accumulation of imagery addresses personal experience as well as a history of injustices. In some pieces sections remain blank and seemingly unfinished, but Williams explained this absence of color and mark symbolizes the power of white. Williams’ show also highlighted the power of the feminine or queen and illustrated the struggles of black Americans and those who traditionally and unfortunately, sometimes to this day, remain oppressed. 

Work by Peter Williams at LDJ

Williams boldly tackles a series of important issues we face in these polarizing times, yet he shared insight to his work with us in a joyful resolve for change. Much like the dots in his works, Williams’ pieces drew viewers and fellow artists together to reflect on a narrative we all share, and really, this is what art is all about.