Previously described as the wunderkind of the LA contemporary art scene, teen artist Tex Hammond presents an all new body of work entitled THE ABSENCE OF… demonstrating his evolution as an artist. Curated by Carmen Acosta, the artist’s fifth solo exhibition features a captivating mix of oil on canvas, works on paper, and paint on found materials. A creative force, the young artist is constantly exploring new techniques and expanding the horizons of figurative art
While his career thus far may be relatively short, it is not lacking depth or accomplishment. From his impressive sold out exhibition at the LA Art Show at age 14 to his recent showing at the Focus Art Fair in Paris, he has wowed viewers and garnered quite the community of fans, drawing viewers in with his honest window into the mind of a young talent maturing in a chaotic world.
With a summer traveling through Europe under his belt, his latest body of work is heavily influenced by classics, drawing inspiration from old world styles that influence his varied representations of figures. A result of this formative time in the 16-year-old’s life, Tex harnesses the period of great independence, leading him to a brooding palate and shadowy figures. “Traveling has shaped my work so much. Every time I go on a trip, it helps me make a huge jump in my own art, giving me a whole different sense of it. Any chance I get to see the world and experience things and view other art, I’m noticing patterns I appreciate and internalizing them.”
Using keen observation skills, he composes representations of the world as it is now, post-pandemic, weaving in a past he has never known, echoing the stirring emotions of figurative work. The resulting exhibition is a moment frozen in time, shown through the eyes of a young man rather than a child. His figures take shape from an unconventional, yet methodical process, whereby he draws shadow first.
In a mix of oil on canvas, works on paper, and oil on found materials, he offers a blend of nostalgia and fresh perspective. Beginning with the shadow of the figure, he creates complex compositions. An almost obsessive sketcher, he presents many works on paper that are fully realized from his daily practice, all of which will be available for purchase.
In an era that sees young artists drawn to animation, procreate, AI, and digital works, Tex is a rarity, emphasizing the importance of old world style. Acknowledging that the artworld has become a marketplace, he works to subvert the idea, opting for work and a creative practice that nods to the classics, rather than trends, rendering it timeless. Even at such a young age, Tex understands the importance of change in the career of an artist, welcoming new versions and new styles with every creation.
Tex Hammond’s THE ABSENCE OF…
May 19, 2023 - May 28, 2023
5225 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
TWO WEEKENDS ONLY
Sat & Sun | 12pm - 5pm
