The late 1800’s saw a resurgence of popular art that continued well into the 20th century.
One of the most well-known examples of this resurgence is Calabasas’ Art of the Sun.
The show featured paintings that ranged from early 20th-century abstract to abstract abstract works by the likes of David Smith, James Baldwin, and others.
The Calabascans are also known for their vibrant mural art.
In a recent interview with Artforum, artist Jeff Tewksbury discussed his work with Calabasca, how Calabasa influenced him, and how the Calabasis’ influence can be found in the modern art world.
“Calabascas is a little bit of an art museum,” Tewssbury said.
“It was the first museum I ever went to, but I was really excited by the way they did the paintings.
It was so exciting to be able to look at that painting and see the meaning behind the paint.”
Tewssworth went on to describe his artwork as a reflection of his own “emotionally charged” and “emotional” upbringing.
He also shared how he came to appreciate the paintings by the Calabias: “I got to a point where I just wanted to know more about them and see what was going on in their lives.”
Tewsbury said he first started to look into Calabassas paintings when he was 13 years old, after being introduced to artworks by the artists from the Calabeas.
“When I saw the paintings, I knew instantly that Calabashas paintings were special,” Tewsworth said.
Tewsworth has continued to explore the Calabreas work in his life, and has now turned his attention to contemporary art.
“I started out wanting to make my own paintings,” Tawnson said.
Tawnsworth is currently working on an installation for Calabase’s Contemporary Art Gallery.
When asked if he had any advice for people who want to learn more about the history of Calabaspains work, Tawnsen replied: “If you can see what’s going on with Calabiasis’ paintings, and see their influences in contemporary art, it can be really fun to see.”
