Gidget Gein: Post Mortem July 24, 2009

JULY 24 - AUGUST 2, 2009
Opening Reception: Friday, July 24, 8-11 PM

La Luz de Jesus Gallery
4633 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
323-662-9227
[email protected]

online press release with images:
http://leejosephpublicity.com/gein

Gidget Gein "Hate"

Musician, writer, bagboy and artist Gidget Gein is perhaps best known as the original bassist for shock-rock outfit Marilyn Manson, but his surreal-pop exploitation art proved to be the most consistent creative outlet in his life - one tragically abridged by an unintentional drug overdose on October 8, 2008. "Post Mortem" references Gein's career as a mortuary assistant, while addressing the mortality of the artist himself in keeping with his signature dark, sardonic sense of humor.
When Gein passed away late last year, the impact of his loss was felt by friends and fans all over the world. His work played heavily in the satirical traditions of fellow artists Michael Ray Charles and Andy Warhol, and functions as an interesting continuation of artists like Kara Walker and Robert Colescott. This is the most extensive gallery exhibition of his art to date and touches on important breakthroughs in his art career spanning 1993 to 2008. Included are selections from his post-Manson street art (under the name Bradley Anne), Blaxpolitation, and Anti-Muse series, as well as UnPop, portraiture, and Sex paintings.
Gidget's perspective on pop culture was never disappointing. Inundated with uncompromising wit, keen insight, and scathing gallows humor, his paintings are a relevant commentary on our idol-worshipping society. Earlier this year, Gein was memorialized during the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame’s 2009 Induction Ceremony, and his influence continues to be felt in art and music circles across the globe.
Acting as guest curator for this exhibit is Bill Shafer from Hyaena Gallery (Burbank, CA), Gidget’s artistic home for the past three years. “Gidget Gein, has always been at the forefront of important movements in both art and music. Edgy, fearless, and unrestrained, he pushed boundaries and wore his demons on his sleeve,” says Shafer. “Gidget knew Kenneth Anger personally and referenced him in his work. He was fascinated by celebrity scandal because he had experienced it. Gein was the Brian Jones of our generation – his image, art, and songwriting shaped a new musical movement exerting influence long after he and his former band mates had parted ways.”
Since all pieces on display will be available for purchase, this will be the one and only chance to see a retrospective this complete.

Please contact gallery director Matt Kennedy for presale information, and contact Lee Joseph for press inquiries.