inaugural exhibition at art we love
Set in the heart of Detroit’s revamped downtown, Woodward Avenue boasts a new art exhibition space where revelers can score some art before a sumptuous meal around the corner at Grey Ghost or after a Tigers game only a few blocks down. The location is so strategic, even on a chilly Leap Day the grand opening was packed.
“Art We Love started when Katie and Cyrus Wheeler met Michelle Tanguay. They all shared a deep love for art and wanted to create a special place for artists and art lovers to come together and celebrate creative expression. Their primary goal is to shine a spotlight on local artists, facilitate the promotion and sale of their work and effectively manage various artistic projects.
Through curated exhibitions, collaborative projects, and educational initiatives, Art We Love endeavors to push the boundaries of artistic expression and elevate unconventional voices. By championing diversity and originality, the gallery aims to shape the ever-evolving landscape of art, challenge perceptions and inviting individuals to embrace the transformative power of creativity.”
Slomczenski’s enigmatic painting is distinguishable from the visual melee of a salon style installation. The ribboning on the mask framed with a floral crown melt the subject into the heavily patterned background almost flattening the scene. The cool green blues against charged reds generate moody energy.
In stark contrast to Slomczenski’s intricate boldness, Nelson’s oversized paper scroll employs substantial negative space to balance the simple drawing. Charcoal smudges with a torn bottom edge render the piece informal, possibly unfinished. Nelson often uses a birdcage to represent the womb, here attended by shimmering golden halo indicating sacred significance.
Kassel has participated in Murals in the Market, exhibited at Whitdel Arts and completed Cycle 5 at Red Bull House of Art. He translates his clean, graphicly recognizable style into a seriously scaled down collage.
Curator Tanguay partners with Taru Lahti to present a realistic portrait on rusted metal where painted curls—similar to Tyrell Winston's autograph pieces—soften the melancholy then drip off the steel page.
Several mural artists—Sheefy, Malt, Ghostbeard, Kobie Soloman, Phil Simpson, Ijania Cortez and Freddy Diaz—have work alongside more traditional paintings and sculpture, all carrying a definitive vibe rooted in rebellious, subterranean origins.
Street art has been around since Ancient Greece and Rome. A piece of wall art from the city of Ephesus appears to advertise a local brothel depicting a foot, a hand and a number. Most are religious such as a Roman mural of Jesus that dates to 200AD. In contemporary circles, this brand has gone legit evolving from quickly sprayed tags to elaborate installations only the truly talented can effectively pull off. Art We Love grants a space devoted to the genre.
On view through April 27th at Art We Love 2948 Woodward Detroit
*full list of participating artists is on the website. This gallery just opened so there are a few glitches such as materials are nowhere indicated. Sizes, which are absent from most exhibitions now, are haphazard. Shows rotate every 2 months. Price points range from $150-$8500.
**images are mine.
direct quote from gallery materials
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SHOWS OPEN THIS WEEKEND