White Walls is proud to present Alex Lukas in a solo show – And Another Shall Rise To Take Her Place.  Opening Reception Saturday, March 14th, 2009 from 7 – 11pm at 835 Larkin St., SF.   The show runs through April 3rd, 2009.

Hailing from Cambridge, Massachusetts Alex Lukas attended RISD and currently lives and works in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where he frequents Space 1026 collaborating with creative and influential pals.  He also founded and contributes to Cantab Publishing.  Their website is full of handmade ‘zines and prints that make you laugh out loud with their quirky antics, but also inspire respect for screen print and handmade anything.  Once you get past Lukas’ extra curricula’s and get down to his work you realize that is he an expert at his craft, while the rest is just fun.   He is an artist that clearly lives for art, which is apparent in every intricately created landscape. With each piece, Lukas breaks down his work into integral layers made up of silkscreen, gouache, acrylic, ink, and spray paint.  Drawing from anonymous skylines of major cities Lukas’ landscapes are overwhelmed by the elements in which floods and fires sink and incinerate his buildings.  While Lukas’ painting can seem depressing, the title of the show implies hope.  And Another Shall Rise And Take Her Place will showcase not only Lukas’ knack for implying impending doom but also his ability to provide solace in the eventual replacement of all that is ruined.

Took a trip out to Boston to check the show out at the ICA.  Here are some pics from the trip…

White Walls presents a joint show featuring new works by Matthew Palladino and Ryan Shaffer.

Matthew Palladino is a native to San Francisco and is inspired by everything from newspaper headlines to bandanas. Mixing influences from CCA and the Mission School artists, Palladino comprises haphazard compositions full of all things American – violence, sex, and satire! Through his use of bold flat color, Palladino sheds light on some strong subject matter while still maintaining a bit of humor. Refusing to shy away from disturbing issues or images Palladino claims, “If things come out in the work that people don’t like, I’m ready to talk about it … Hiding or avoiding things seems like it would only be destructive”. Working in mostly watercolor and acrylic gouache on paper and embracing free association, Palladino allows his work to become something of it’s own. The end result? Shocking narratives that inspire us all.

White Walls has had the pleasure of not only doting on Ryan Shaffer for his computer expertise, but also having the opportunity to show his work in the past. A man of many talents, Shaffer is originally from San Diego and moved to San Francisco five years ago to pursue his art. His compositions are loosely symmetrical and through the use of repeating images he creates a sense of balance in seemingly chaotic imagery. This introspective imagery objectively deals with personal and emotional experiences in Shaffer’s recent past. Working in acrylics, gouache, and house paint on paper and wood panels, Shaffer’s style is eclectic and retro. Vibrant neon orange and blue pop against muted backgrounds and no doubt grab everyone’s attention. He is a must see.

For more images and information regarding these artists please visit our website www.whitewallssf.com and their personal sites: http://www.dumbstersf.com/ for Matthew and http://www.ryanscottshaffer.com/ for Ryan.

Click here for opening reception photos.

White Walls Gallery would like to open the New Year off right by celebrating the work of artists that we admire and support. The ‘Family First’ show will showcase work from artists that have been with us for the past three years featuring Andrew Schoultz, Richard Colman, Sylvia Ji, Henry Lewis, Mike Davis, Cleon Peterson, Ian Francis, Hillary Pecis, Albert Reyes, Shepard Fairey, Shawn Barber, Jim Houser, Mike Giant, Rogelio Martinez, Adam 5100, David Choong Lee, Adam Flores, Greg Lamarche, Brett Cook Dizney, and AJ Fosik. The show will run through February.

The artists showcased in ‘Family First’, and all other artists we have represented, characterize White Walls’ consistent respect for non-traditional subject matter that encompasses the world of contemporary art that we have all come to appreciate and love. These artists are pushing the envelope of fine art to discover and create work that represents the current social, political, and cultural structure of our world today.

Click here for photos from the opening reception.

henry lewis' script added the finishing touch

Oliver and Ando really worked hard to get the show hung and ready for the opening, which had a great turn out.  Thanks to everyone who made it!  Oliver showed up, bulletproof vest and all.  Ando was all smiles as usual.

Oliver Fader and Ando in the flesh

Check out more photos here.