LeBasse Projects presents:
Andrew Hem :: Cold Water
July 16th – August 13th, 2011
Opening reception: Saturday, July 16th, 7pm-10pm
Culver City, CA – LeBasse Projects is excited to present, ‘Cold Water’ an exhibition of new works from Los Angeles based artist Andrew Hem. In this highly anticipated solo project, Hem confronts the viewer with themes of isolation and personal conflict.
After focusing his 2010 body of work on his Cambodian heritage and how different his life might have been should his family have stayed during the regime of the Khmer Rouge, Hem now moves forward with an even more introspective series of paintings.
The new paintings explore the feeling of isolation we get when removed from those close to us – and the ensuing personal darkness that follows. As the viewer progresses through the paintings we can see how Hem emerges from those dark places and finds the road back to happiness.
Hem states that the title ‘Cold Water’ is a reference to that feeling of ‘being surrounded by cold situations and places.’ Hem masterfully builds lush, yet cold, landscapes wherein his portraits longingly stare for someone to connect with. Filled with personal references, Hem’s paintings still create a canvas all should be able to find themselves in.
About Andrew Hem:
Andrew Hem graduated from Art Center College of Design in 2006 and has exhibited internationally with shows in LA, Chicago, Seattle, NY and London. When not painting, Hem has built a career as an accomplished illustrator and designer working for clients such as Adidas, Lucky Brand Jeans, The Los Angeles Times, Sony Pictures as well as being published in the LA Times, Print Magazine, Guu Press and American Illustration.
*** For purchase inquiries please contact the gallery at 310.558.0200 or email beau@lebasseprojects.com
