by Leann Lo, MFA-1 student in CalArts’ Creative Writing Program
Artist, alum and CalArts instructor Dave Lebow (Film/Video MFA 00) opens his new show, Prime Time, at La Luz de Jesus Gallery in Los Angeles on Friday (May 6).
Originally from Oklahoma, the representational artist has worked extensively in the entertainment industry, creating illustrations and animation for TV shows such as Showtime’s Dexter, ABC’s October Road and the History Channel’s Strange Rituals.
Known for the darker themes and tones in his images and paintings, Lebow stated in the exhibit’s press release, “I want my images to grab you and drag you, if not willingly, then kicking and screaming into my picture. I’m inspired and interested in imaginative storytelling pictures that evoke an emotional response.”
Also a committed arts educator, Lebow teaches life drawing at CalArts, and was asked during a recent interview with Reverberations Media about the most valuable advice to impart to students:
That it is important to get a handle on one’s craft first when learning to paint. Paint a still-life or a portrait from life, alla prima, and get good at that before attempting a large storytelling composition. The analogy I give my students who I teach up at CalArts in my portrait painting class is: a composer composing for a symphony has to write for all the musicians in the orchestra, but the painter has to paint all the parts, as well as create the composition and story, so being in shape, in terms of technique, by painting and drawing from the model from life as much as possible really helps to stay in shape, art wise.
Lebow’s Prime Time opens concurrently with Mikal Winn’s exhibition of giant jeweled animals in A Desert Home Companion. The opening reception on Friday runs 8-11 pm with the shows on view through May 29.
Event Details
Dave Lebow: Prime Time
Dave Lebow and Mikal Winn
May 6-29, Opening reception: Friday, May 6 from 8-11 pm
La Luz de Jesus Gallery
4633 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles
Free