I Love L.A.

The onset of summer (and accompanying Texas heat oppression) inspires us to do a little California dreaming. And they're not dreams of just any California. We're imagining the chilled-out, laid-back, Southern California vibe that is synonymous with cool culture. Luckily, to make our dreams reality, we don't have to go...

By S. Anne Durham

May 28, 2009

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The onset of summer (and accompanying Texas heat oppression) inspires us to do a little California dreaming. And they're not dreams of just any California. We're imagining the chilled-out, laid-back, Southern California vibe that is synonymous with cool culture. Luckily, to make our dreams reality, we don't have to go further than Deep Ellum, where the Barry Whistler Gallery shows The Beat Goes On: Southern California 1965 to Present, which features works from artists like Ed Ruscha, Larry Bell, Skeet McAuley and more. The artists' works are diverse, ranging from abstract expressionistic and minimalist acrylic sculptures to landscapes and modern paintings on canvas. Also diverse are the artists themselves, of which Ruscha is perhaps the best known. He was an instrumental contributor to the Pop Art movement, published a book of photographs of California's Sunset Strip and produced work in unconventional media such as grass stains, axle grease and gunpowder. The exhibit's differences and broad timeline make for an experience that is inclusive enough to carry the theme while offering plenty of variations on it. The Beat Goes On: Southern California 1965 to Present runs through June 20 at Barry Whistler Gallery, 2909-B Canton St. Admission is free. Call 214-939-0242 or visit BarryWhistlerGallery.com.
Wednesdays-Saturdays. Starts: May 8. Continues through June 20, 2009

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