• Tell-a-friend

Beyond the Cel

Mesa Arts Center

September 14, 2007-February 10, 2008

Be the first to submit a review/comment!
Add Review/Comment

Beyond the Cel is an exhibition that explores the influences of animation on Contemporary art. Although cartoons have been an acceptable form of mainstream entertainment and advertising, the characters and graphic style of cartoons inspire 'lowbrow' or pop surrealist artists working today. A cel, short for celluloid, is a transparent sheet of plastic (usually acetate) on which objects are drawn or painted for animation, allowing for several layers of composition. This exhibition promises to intrigue contemporary art lovers and first time museum visitors alike. The exhibition features many popular, successful artists of the movement including Ron English, Sket-One, KRK Ryden, Ryan Bubnis and Amanda Visell. 'Lowbrow art' is a term said to have been coined by artist and Juxtapoz magazine founder Robert Williams, and refers to various underground, sub-culture origins such as graffiti, hot rods, tattoo art, punk rock, and pop culture. Williams used the self-deprecating term for his own work, since very few art institutions would recognize his type of art. Although work by artists such as Robert Crumb, Mark Ryden, and Robert Williams have gained more attention and acceptance from mainstream galleries and museums, many institutions and critics remain uncertain about the validity of pop surrealist work. However, as a new generation of collectors and patrons come of age, their interest in this art form will determine its legitimacy. For many, this art form is a forum for discussing current events. Exhibition Curator Mike Goodwin, 33, agrees. 'Personally, much of the work I collect and follow is 'lowbrow ' art. This street imagery and influence is what I find interesting, and I think the younger audience that is tomorrow's patrons and collectors do as well. This is not to say that this work doesn't have a message. On the contrary, it is here that you find many of the strongest, direct commentaries on today's culturally important topics.'

• At-a-Glance
• Member Reviews
• Media Reviews
• What's Nearby

• Ticket Info

  Tickets: $3.50/Each, Free on Thursdays

• Dates & Times

  Dates:
  September 14, 2007-February 10, 2008

  Times:
  Tuesday-Wednesday 10:00am-5:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 10:00am-8:00pm, Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm

• Venue Info

  Mesa Contemporary Arts at Mesa Arts Center

  1 East Main Street Mesa, AZ 85211

  Full map and directions

• Locations

  Mesa

• Accessibility Info

• NOTE: We do our best to ensure all information is accurate, however it's a good idea to visit the website or call the venue to verify the information.