Shepard Fairey’s new show E Pluribus Venom opens to the public this saturday at Jonathan Levine Gallery in NY. This show will be the artist’s first solo show at Jonathan LeVine Gallery and will feature a second, off-site exhibition space for the artist to exhibit large-scale installations and murals on wood and canvas. Shepard Fairey’s provocative collection includes politically charged paintings, screen prints, stencils, album covers and mixed media pieces rich with metaphor, humor and seductive decorative elements.

E Pluribus Venom, which translates “out of many, poison,” is derived from E Pluribus Unum (out of many, one) an early motto adopted by the U.S. government, which appears on U.S. coins and dollar bills. For Shepard Fairey, many becoming one, or a loss of power and the influence of the individual in favor of homogeny is a symptom of a society in decline. E Pluribus Venom entails a two-fold metaphor: referring to the poison in the American system and the individuals who are motivated by venom and have anger towards this system.

The exhibition is comprised of artworks designed to scrutinize the dichotomy of symbols and methods associated with ideologies of the American Dream. Fairey’s artwork comments on underpinnings of the capitalist machine, critiquing those who support blind nationalism and war. Fairey addresses monolithic institutional authority, the role of counter culture, and independent individuals who question the cultural paradigm. Utilizing currency motifs and a Norman Rockwell aesthetic, Fairey employs the graphic language of the subjects they critique. Blending Art Nouveau, hippie, and revolutionary propaganda styles, he celebrates subjects advocating peace. His works blur the perceived barriers between propaganda and escapist decoration, political responsibility and humor with the intent of stimulating both viscerally and intellectually.

Mr Musichead Rock Art Gallery, VH1 and Filter Magazine present Steve Joester and the Los Angeles Debut Showcases Creative New Mixed Media Approach to Iconic Rock Images.

Mr Musichead Rock Art Gallery in its grand re-opening and larger improved space is proud to present the artwork of Steve Joester. His artwork taps into the pure energy of the live onstage performances he captured nearly thirty years ago. Exhibiting his photography in a new context, Joester uses unconventional materials such as nail polish and pieces of burlap combined with gold leaf paint to capture the style and energy of each rock legend. In November of 2005 and 2006, Joester exhibited his work in a private show at the former Andy Warhol Factory in New York.

The opening night reception will be held on May 19th from 7-9pm at Mr. Music Head Rock Art Gallery (7511 W. Sunset Blvd).

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