[dropcap size=big]O[/dropcap]pening tonight Eastern Projects presents "Americus Taco" a collection of recent and current work from Los Angeles based artist John M. Valadez. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Valadez's work captures a side of the City of Angels that can only be known and seen from living here your entire life. Every city has its culture, and Valadez's work invokes the spirit of the streets which can be lost over years due to development and changes. Huge expanses of canvas grace the walls of Eastern Projects that command your attention to the details and broad brush strokes used. Almost like a religious experience, Valadez's work leaves you dumbfounded and asking for more. The artist depicts images from a dream, using urban realism to further translate the ideas within his mind. Some of the most subtle, yet striking images can be seen in this work.
The opening is May 12th, from 6-10pm, at Eastern Projects, located at 900 N Broadway #1090, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
Accompanying the paintings are some of Valadez's personal street photography which spans from the late 70's to 80's. We were told some of the portraits were actually taken on and within Broadway. Taken to use as references for painting, each portrait was so unique and real that they made you feel as if you were really looking through Valadez's eyes in that time. As some are never before seen or shown in a gallery, you can only imagine the surprise and delight it was to see such amazing film photography. The entire show will be on display starting tonight in Chinatown's most prominent new gallery space, Eastern Projects located on the corner of Broadway and College.
Read More:
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from L.A. TACO
Juárez-Style Burritos Have Arrived in Southern California, And They are Already Selling Out In Less than An Hour
The month-old strip mall taquería in Anaheim make all their flour tortillas from scratch using both lard and butter, resulting in an extremely tender vehicle for their juicy guisados like carne en su jugo, carne deshebrada, chile colorado, chile relleno, and chicharrón. Every tortilla is cooked to order, too.
Urgent: L.A. TACO Falling Short of Fundraising Goals and Needs Your Support
Emergency. This is not a test. This is not a ruse. This is not a marketing scheme. We need your support if we're going to make it and every single membership counts.
What To Eat In L.A. This Weekend: Mexican-Style Pastrami, ‘Trashburgers,’ and Flamin’ Jim Morrisons
Plus, a new shawarma spot in Tarzana and the country's first wine festival dedicated solely to orange "skin contact" wine happening in Hollywood.
The 11 Best Backyard Restaurants in Los Angeles
Despite many requests to publish this guide, L.A. TACO has been somewhat protective of these gems to not "burn out the spots." However, we wanted to share it with our small, loyal pool of paid members, as we appreciate your support (and know you to be okay, non-NARCs). Please enjoy responsibly and keep these 'hood secrets...secrets.
Here’s What an L.A. TACO Membership Gets You and Why You Should Support Local Journalism
With more than 30 members-only perks at the best L.A. restaurants, breweries, and dispensaries waiting to be unlocked, the L.A. TACO membership pays for itself!
