Through uncertainty and divide, confusion and a little bit of collective apathy these days, Chris Uphues and his newest body of work, Upsidaisium or The Wizard Biz, is a breath of fresh air. Along with his wife, Jen Koehl, Chris created Beautiful Days, a brand that even in its name thinks about a sense of positivity and lightness that is palpable and addictive. It creates an elated feeling when looking at the work as a whole.
La Luz de Jesus Gallery is pleased to present a solo exhibition by artist Chris Uphues on view through September 26, 2021.
Plain and simple, Chris Uphues is a serial optimist and wants to share his love and happiness with you. Inspired by nostalgic consumerist 1970s flower imagery, hearts, and the smiley face, Uphues renders intricately patterned ink and watercolor works on paper that include a multitude of mini-narratives when given a closer look. Whether it’s a bottle of toothpaste smiling at a pyramid wearing a pyramid hat, or a smiling baseball traveling out of hearts and flowers, flying high alongside some airplanes, these absurdly cheerful, chirpy anecdotes offer a break from the stresses of everyday life. Uphues reminds you that happiness is a basic human right, and we all have the ability to turn our frowns upside down.
