Originally published at AXS.com on Aug 6, 2018. Archived here as part of portfolio.
Beyond the Streets comes to Los Angeles from collector, producer and curator in his own right, Roger Gastman. Known to the art world for years, Gastman is responsible for bringing the Oscar-nominated picture, “Exit Through the Gift Shop,” to theaters having served as a producer.
The Oscar-nominated documentary, directed by the enigmatic Banksy and detailing the rise of the controversial “Mr Brainwash,” serves as an entry point for many people into the world of street art. However, as is easily seen through perusing the halls of Beyond the Streets, Banksy is just a small cog in the wheel of an art form that has a long and storied tradition.
Housed in a 40,000 square foot warehouse, Beyond the Streets brings its story of street art to fans, the curious and connoisseurs everywhere. Featuring art from renowned artists such as Shepard Fairey, Banksy, Invader and Mark Mothersbaugh, lead singer and co-founder of the new wave band Devo, this exhibit is one not to be missed.
Though pictures may give a glimpse of the art on display (see above for a brief view of the majestic street artistry on hand), it really is meant to be experienced in order to understand the impact it made upon the streets of New York, Los Angeles and beyond.
From the anonymous “Pray” artist of New York, who scratched the word on telephone booths, subways and park benches, to the Guerilla Girls, an anonymous group of feminist artists who have been empowering change since the ‘80s, Beyond the Streets is not just displaying art, but telling a story. It is the story of the people throughout years of struggle, both political and societal, across the landscape that is known as the United States. This story, told in visual fashion, is on display for everyone to see.
Of particular interest for readers at AXS is the art of Mothersbaugh, lead singer of Devo and a long-standing visual artist. With over 150 art gallery shows spanning 20 years, he brings his styles and multilayered art to Beyond the Streets. Mothersbaugh has suffered for many years from myopia, and his art as represented here at Beyond the Streets shows the struggle the artist has endured over the years.
From stories of personal struggle to struggles at a societal level, Beyond the Streets records it all through the hand and spray can of artists across the nation. Take a look at these struggles as they interpret them on subways, walls and telephone booths, and experience the disruption of heart and mind for yourself.
Beyond the Streets has just extended its Los Angeles run through the last weekend of August. Grab tickets for an event that will impact mind and heart through the eye of the beholder.