FORT WORKS ART

BAN THIS SHOW Artist Spotlight:

Lala Abaddon
Ryan Sandison Montgomery
Carlos Donjuan

“BAN THIS SHOW” is a groundbreaking new exhibition featuring over 30 international artists.

Lala Abaddon is a New York-based multidisciplinary artist known for her intricate, handwoven photographic collages and explorations of identity, memory, and human connection. By weaving together images she captures or collects, Abaddon creates visually complex works that blur the lines between digital and analog, two-dimensional and sculptural art forms. Her work delves into the fragmented nature of existence, using patterns and geometric distortions to convey the emotional and psychological layers of personal experience. With a background in photography and a deep interest in textile art, Abaddon’s creations challenge viewers to reexamine how images and experiences are intertwined in the human psyche.

Ryan Sandison Montgomery is an artist and educator based in Austin, Texas, known for his conceptual approach to painting. He holds a BFA from Pratt Institute and an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. His work often engages with themes of identity, memory, and perception, and has been featured in notable publications like Artnet and Glasstire. Montgomery’s recent series, such as those exhibited at Ivester Contemporary, explore rotating compositions that challenge traditional static presentations. He will also be part of the 2024 Texas Biennial in Houston​

Carlos Donjuan is a Mexican-American artist born in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, and raised in Dallas, Texas. He holds a BFA from the University of Texas at Arlington and an MFA from the University of Texas at San Antonio. His work is deeply influenced by his experiences as an immigrant, particularly addressing themes of undocumented immigration, which he explores through vibrant, street art-inspired aesthetics. Donjuan’s artistic style blends graffiti, Mexican Muralism, and contemporary fine art, creating thought-provoking pieces that examine identity and social constructs. He is also a founding member of the Sour Grapes Collective, a group of artists dedicated to mentoring youth and engaging the community through public murals.

The exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of why art matters, especially in an era of division and unrest. “BAN THIS SHOW” doesn’t merely present works to be viewed; it demands participation and reflection. Through its diverse array of mediums, the show tackles themes like injustice, identity, and the human condition, creating an immersive experience that pushes viewers to confront the uncomfortable realities we face. In a world where even having an emotional response feels radical, this exhibition transforms art into a form of resistance, underscoring its potential to challenge, provoke, and inspire change.

Participating Artists:

Lala Abaddon, Albert Alvarez, Johan Barrios, Pablo Bermudez, Ashley Brightwell, Violette Bule, Benny Cruz, Caledonia Curry (Swoon), Carlos Donjuan, Colby Deal, Gregory Gove, Guerilla Girls, Ian Jones, Jerome Lagarrigue, Ernesto Marenco, Robert Macreedy, Ryan Sandison Montgomery, Noodle, Tim Okamura, Julie Pacino, Forrest Prince, Joe Salinas, Kate Simon, Beverly Smith, Nadya Tolokonnikova (Pussy Riot), Steven Trimble, Vincent Valdez, Bernardo Vallarino, Misha Waks, Luciann Waldrup, Tod Waters, Jay Wilkinson, Larena Winn, Marcella Winn.

Exhibition Details:

Dates: November 8 – December 7, 2024

Opening November 8th, “BAN THIS SHOW” invites the public to engage deeply with these critical themes, blurring the lines between art and activism. Presented by Culture X Creative and Fort Works Art, this free event will also feature a live performance by Disko Cowboy and offer opportunities for dialogue with the artists. A portion of the proceeds will support community-based mental health initiatives, extending the impact of the exhibition beyond the gallery and into the community. “BAN THIS SHOW” is more than an art event—it’s a call to action. For more details, visit:  culturexcreative.com

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