There is an old saying that dates back to the 17th century when it comes to spring’s weather, “March comes in like a lion, out like a lamb,” and in comparison to this first series of Contemporary Art Openings at the new Harvey’s Art Gallery & Showroom in West Hollywood, whereas I was chosen to curate as well as select from my circle of artists for the opening the gallery, the exhibition opened with Dan Pyle and Hal Yaskulka, two extraordinary artists of our time. Needless to say, I was amazed how not only the guests, but also others “stormed” the place to get a “taste” of something old and something new.
Noted as a Hollywood institution for decades, all the studios come to Harvey’s first when they are looking for period decor and furniture. Harvey Schwartz decided to leave his cavernous 130,000 square foot “prop house” and to open this gallery of vintage furniture and contemporary art. It is a beautiful marriage of styles and generations.
It was my privilege to present Dan Pyle who has been drawing since childhood. Throughout the years, he has displayed his work in exhibitions nationwide, whereas he has not only won domestic, but also international awards for his work, and as of today, his charcoal drawings are in major collections from Canada to Malaysia, including he has also received many profiles and magazine covers.
Most recently, artist Pyle was commission for a very large body of work to be permanently installed in the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada; thusly becoming a part of their impressive art collection. His latest masterpiece, “Penthouse in Pergatory,” took him 1200 hours to complete and years of contemplation after his trip to Poland.
An author of numerous books and art criticisms as well as an artist in his own right, William A. Emboden, PhD. F.L.S says, “Dan Pyle is noted for his exceptional photo-realism achieved through graphite imagery utilizing Q-tips and other unconventional methods. His sense of the moment is, like Cartier Bresson, in the essential moment.” With these types of evaluations, I completely understand why Dan continues to challenge himself while expanding his artistic world.
Born and classically trained New York, I am also honored to have Hal Yaskulka as one of my greats for this series preview. His artistry has awarded him many one man and group exhibitions across the USA. One of Hal’s strong suits is figurative work; however the latter came to a halt when he lost his mother in The World Trade Center on 911. He was unable to draw any figurative works for many years, but he has just started again.
One of the most powerful works is the “Illuminated Gathering,” reminds me of Holocaust artist Josef Nassy interpretation of the “Showers.” However you see the spiritual in all Hal’s artworks and the musical inspiration in his abstract paintings like, “Kandinsky Weeps.”
Yaskulka has also been published in Watson & Guptill Publications and Rizzoli Publishing -both Ivy Press Limited. His commissioned works are featured in the award winning film “The Departed”, “Rush Hour”, “Maiden Heist”, and “Contraband” with actor Mark Walberg; TV show “Suburgatory”, and to be released soon, ”Linda Lovelace.” In addition, his work is on Record labels from Capitol Records to Motown. Most recently, Hal won another competition as well as one of his paintings is in the Pasadena History Museum that opened March 10, 2012.
In the past, artist Yaskulka has taught at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California and today he continues to teach painting and drawing classes privately and at the Kline Academy in Los Angeles.
This Contemporary Art Opening exhibition is on view through April 14, 2012 at Harvey’s Art Gallery & Showroom, 8155 West Beverly Blvd in Los Angeles, California. Viewing hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm as well as by appointment by calling 323. 944.0900.
By Tony Clark, Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres
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Vintage and Contemporary create new dimension in art
