Today we’d like to introduce you to Kirk Nelson.
Kirk, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have a history in art—got an MFA in painting and drawing from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago–and I wanted to return to my foundational interest after years in fashion and film. I remember the freedom and openness of Dave Muller’s Three Day Weekend project from the late 90’s/early aughts, which was a free-floating exhibition series that brought artists (including me) together at his house. I wanted to cultivate a moment and feeling like that. What’s more, I think the house that I inhabit is conducive to showing art. Big windows, perfect light.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s been a pretty smooth road. Since it’s out of my house, I have very little overhead to produce the shows. What I’ve learned from this experience is when you have a good idea and the right elements are in place, things coalesce naturally.
We’d love to hear more about your art.
La Loma Projects is a gallery that I run out of my house on a hill overlooking the border of Eagle Rock and Pasadena. My goal is to show artists who aren’t shown as much, along with, and sometimes alongside more established artists. I want the art to feel like art you can live with, want to live with. Our events are twilight hour, indoor-outdoor, loose, family-friendly. There’s a tree swing, people playing chess, my kid working the door, people eating tacos made by Hector at El Cheffe, people sitting on couches, sitting on steps, engaging with the art. Unlike at some perhaps stiffer art events, it feels like people want to stay here, linger, and socialize. The receptions are a mellow Sunday unwind.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is personal growth, learning from past experience how to better solve problems, I prize openness and flexibility and building upon a foundation to make something new.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1357 Brixton Road
Pasadena, CA 91105 - Website: www.lalomaprojects.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @lalomaprojects
Image Credit:
Photo of Kirk Nelson and installation shots by Jeff Minton
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