CΔCHING OUT @ Groundswell Gallery

The show is closed, the lights are down, but the transformation of space that Akira Beard's latest show at Groundswell Gallery activated for the month of June is worth noting. On the main floor of the gallery, dozens of figural drawings hung in dynamic salon style fashion, mimicking the motion inherent in the works. "Life Drawing" by Akira Beard was represented by Groundswell Gallery in the best way possible, in a manner which allowed the artist, his process, and most importantly, the work to be witnessed. 

Beard shares in his statement that his current style is a process of unfolding the subconscious. The viewer may see what they see, and what we most notice is dynamism of form, that may be the unfurling of thought patterns, relationships, dance, sex, etc. Mimesis, or realistic rendering of form which mimics reality, is not the absolute focus of these drawings. The entangled forms reveal body parts, but it clearly represents drawing from life in its abstract and concrete forms. In short, all of Beard's drawings are monochromatic, with line work as the morphing tool for expressive content. 

The flurry of images in this setting has a musicality, that altogether works as a whole. We appreciate a show which is curated with the artist's process and works in mind, and curator, Jaime Caluya excelled in this display of Beard's works. However, for the onlooker who wonders about things such as titles or dates, there was minimal reference. This information doesn't necessarily contribute to the actual visual content, but it does help the viewer relate or understand the language of the artist. Because the show was displayed in a map-like fashion, one could view it as a timeline, but these could always be ideas and assumptions placed upon the work that don't align with the artist's intent. In our opinion, a date helps the viewer understand what style the artist is working with in the present, how they have evolved, and perhaps where they are heading. Lastly, in a show with so many works on display as this one, lighting was limited and a full wash of light didn't catch certain works, but as seen in the photos, this did not inhibit the overall quality of images. 

Akira Beard is popping up on the Sacramento art scene actively this year. We first saw his works in a group show at Axis Gallery earlier this year, and while the Groundswell show has closed, you can now view a collaborative show with Heidi Zimmerman at Beatnik Studios through July 19th. Get out to experience some art in person, discuss it with your fellows, ask questions, support artists and community activators with your attention investment. While we do our best to provide high quality images and content explication and dissemination, your readership is greatly appreciated, thank you for referencing our articles, events and posts on your art explorations in the greater Sacramento region and beyond!

For more information on Akira Beard, follow the links below: 

https://groundswellart.com/akirabeard/

http://www.beatnik-studios.com/current-exhibit.html