Seen: Arkiv — ‘Escapist’

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Indonesian artist Arkiv made his very first trip to the USA for Friday’s opening of his ‘Escapist’ solo @ Toy Art Gallery in Hollywood. The show features several acrylic on canvas paintings, two large resin sculptures from his recent show in Indonesia (editions of 10), and a sweet display of his vinyl figures both past, brand new and upcoming. 

Whenever he prepares for a show, Arkiv posts pictures of his crisp, meticulous paintings which draw you in with a combination of strong color choices and a style emphasizing fluid shapes rather than highly-rendered details.  Having never seen his paintings in person, I was curious to seem the up close.  I’m happy to say his art is just as impressive in person.  The work has an irresistible quality blending the simple draw of cartoons with a sophistication befitting gallery pieces.   While one might assume the super smooth quality of his line work is acheived with some special assistive technique, it is in fact done entirely by hand.

Arkiv is equally comfortable expressing his art in 3D .  The show marks the long-awaited debut drop of Arkiv’s ‘The Sumo’ produced by adFunture.  First out of the chute is TAG’s exclusive Black/Gray edition featuring a black matte body with slight gray accents on the wrestler’s headpiece and Mawashi (belt/loin cloth). The Sumo has a strong, dynamic pose and considerable presence due to its large size. Limited to 100 pieces, the black edition is available from TAG for $125.

As has been widely reported, Arkiv collaborated with Huck Gee on this project. Specifically, Arkiv had Huck design a second head for the figure.  While the alternate head is not included in the first release, expect to see it from the 2nd edition (Singapore) and on.   

Arkiv also showed a prototype for his upcoming ‘Banana’ vinyl (also from adFunture) which as the name suggests features one of Arkiv’s characters emerging from a Banana. This one will come with a collection of mini bone accessories (similar to those shown in early photos of the Sumo). 

Escapist is definitely worth a viewing.  Arkiv will be holding a combo live painting/signing session today, Saturday (8.6) @ TAG from 2-5.  If you missed the opening, this is a great 2nd chance.  Also be sure to check the official gallery preview page for artwork availability and pricing.

Arkiv || ‘Escapist’
Through: August 26th, 2011

Toy Art Gallery
737 Seward St. #1
Los Angeles, CA 90038
877.910.toys (8697)