Tuesday, September 25, 2012

'Eclectic L.A.' exhibit in Pasadena Nov. 10-Dec. 8

Contemporary-traditional artists Eric MerrellAlexander V. OrlovTony Peters and Scott W. Prior pay tribute to the originality and uniqueness of the City of Angels’ architecture in the group exhibition Eclectic L.A. – Four Perspectives, on view at American Legacy Fine Arts from November 10 to December 8, 2012.

     A reception with the artists will be held Saturday, November 10, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

     In this exhibition of more than 30 urban landscape paintings, these four artists share imagery of some of their favorite buildings in the greater Los Angeles area, and, in turn, provide insights on how they view the world around them.

     While the Russian-born Orlov has been residing in Los Angeles for more than 20 years, historic landmarks that are entrenched in L.A.’s lore continue to appeal to him. His works in this exhibition featured famed sites such as the “Old Hollywood” eatery of Musso & Frank and Barney’s Beanery, the Route 66 diner that became a popular hangout in the 60s for rock ‘n’ roll legends.

     On the other end of the spectrum, Peters, a Southern California native with a passion for the rich architectural history of the country’s second largest city, enjoys seeking awe-inspiring views that pay homage to bygone eras and highlight L.A.’s early architecture. One of his featured works showcases the Bruin Theatre in Westwood, with the bright lights of its Streamline Moderne marquee illuminating the wet pavement surrounding the famed movie palace after a rainstorm.

     Additional viewpoints are provided by Merrell and Prior, who were both born and raised in more rural areas of the state.  Merrell, a history buff who hails from the farming community of Gilroy, is best known for selecting subject matters that represent more quiet, meditative imagery.  His works in this display include paintings of the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House in Barnsdall Park and San Gabriel Mission, which showcases strong Moorish architectural influences that are unique among the California missions.

     Prior, who grew up in North San Diego County, enjoys capturing the beauty in the gritty reality of everyday life and takes a look at quirky life “off the beaten path” in Eclectic L.A.  His painting Doublewides in Paradise of a mobile home park in Malibu exemplifies the “take-it-as-it-is” attitude that permeates his works.

     “Eclectic L.A. – Four Perspectives is a visual showcase of architecture in Los Angeles – a city that features just about every different historic style, as well as truly original buildings that have no equal anywhere in the world,” says Elaine Adams, the gallery’s director.  “In many ways, the exhibition is a testament to the creativity and imagination of the city’s residents and their forthright determination to build whatever they can visualize in their mind’s eye,” she adds.

     American Legacy Fine Arts is located in the tranquil Pasadena neighborhood near the world-famous Rose Bowl.  Gallery hours are by appointment 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Art enthusiasts interested in viewing the exhibition may schedule appointments by either calling (626) 577-7733 or emailing info@americanlegacyfinearts.com.  The exhibition may also be viewed at the gallery’s Web site, www.americanlegacyfinearts.com.
 

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