These days, keeping up with technology is a necessity, but one cannot always predict positive or negative outcomes. Becoming computer literate and hosting a YouTube channel has become the norm.
With the use of programs such as “Turn Tube List,” one can now step into the role of VJ (Video Jockey) by creating his or her own personal playlist complete with fancy effects like cross fading.
In other words (for older folks), it’s a 2014 version of a mixed tape.
This Saturday, Aug. 23, Culver City’s established yet conservative gallery – Blum & Poe – steps out of its box by catering to a younger crowd fluent in the “techno” language of YouTube.
Carole Ann Klonarides (former video jockey at the Peppermint Lounge pre-MTV) and sound and visual artist Tom Recchion have organized the event.
The playlist will offer a mix of experimental art and noise videos along with the music of well-known punk/rock bands such as Frank Zappa, Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band, Soft Machine, the Velvet Underground, and more.
The free outdoor event will be held in the parking lot on Alvira Street from 7:30 pm to 10 pm. The public is encouraged to bring blankets/chairs and a picnic. An RSVP is required, so call 310.836.2062 or email rsvp@blumandpoe.com. It is located at 2727 S. La Cienega Blvd., L.A. 90034. For more information, visit www.blumandpoe.com.
On the opposite end of the scale, the passing of time does not always prove profitable for all.
In her new book “Primer,” Karolina Karlic pays homage to the blue collar workers left holding the bag prior to the auto bail out fiasco in 2008.
Growing up in Michigan, photographer Karlic has witnessed first hand the disseverment of the automotive industry and its effect on her local community.
“My own father was an auto engineer,” said Karlic. “Instead of making the work about Detroit and the economic situation there, I framed this discussion around personal relationships, the industry and its workers, and how the crash affected my surroundings… both immediate and remote.”
The book features an inside glimpse of the social impact left from the crisis, with an afterword provided by Sally Stein. The first printing is offered in an edition of 100, plus a Collector’s Edition of 25 that includes a signed artist print of “Body Shop Boys, Metro Detroit – 2010.”
Although the artist has created photo books in the past, this special edition is the first larger run that she has self-published.
“I work in pictures,” explained Karlic. “I make books, prints, photographs, and films. For example, I just returned from Brazil while working on a new project ‘Rubberlands’ and I shot large format film, 35mm format, and video using a black magic camera. The medium does not define the work, but rather the subject and concepts define the medium.”
Karlic’s work is part of Cohen Gallery’s current group exhibit titled “24/7 (still life) remix” on view through Aug. 30. The exhibition also features the work of Kate Johnson, Siri Kaur, Tricia Lawless Murray, Lisa Ohlweiler, Vincent Ramos, Heather Rasmussen, Katie Shapiro, Carly Steward, Ruth Van Beek, and David Weldzius.
The book signing takes place on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 4-6 pm at Cohen Gallery, 7354 Beverly Boulevard, L.A., 90036. For more information, visit www.stephencohengallery.com.
