Art & Life with Gared Luquet

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gared Luquet.

Gared, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I am originally from Walnut Creek in the San Francisco Bay Area. I attended Pepperdine University where I was a Studio Art Painting Major and Art History Minor. I began my career painting only realistic imagery, but I credit my evolution as a professional artist to my professors Joe Piasentin and Avery Faulkner who gave me an appreciation for abstract art. After college I moved to Oakland, California, where I spent three years creating purely abstract artwork. In 2015, I moved to Los Angeles and began my LA ZOO series, which originally was abstract work inspired the vibrant atmosphere of LA. Over time, my work became less abstract and animals were incorporated. My current style blends realistic imagery with my love for abstract application, characterized by layers of color and texture.

Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My large-scale wildlife portraits are painted with acrylic and spray paint, on birch panels that I make myself. I have begun to includes electrifying backdrops that capture the vibrant culture and landscape of Los Angeles. My use of vintage neon signs emphasizes the connection between the man-made and the natural world.

What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
Renting a studio at Keystone Art Space was the best thing I have ever done! The community that studios provide helps creates a positive atmosphere to build great relationships. We regularly have Open Studios, Group Shows and biweekly art shows put on my members. Being a part of a studio is a great way immerse yourself in your city’s art culture, and it provides many opportunities for collaboration and showcasing of your work.

What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I am a happy six-year member of Keystone Art Space, located in Lincoln Heights in Los Angeles. Keystone houses a diverse group of over 50 artists and designers and regularly holds Open Studios that attract hundreds of artists, collectors, and enthusiasts. I recently had a two-person show, Nothing Tame, which I showed my latest LA ZOO series. My original work and prints are for sale on my website and on my Instagram.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.garedluquetart.com
• Email: garedluquetart@gmail.com
• Instagram: la_zoo_art
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GaredLuquetArt

Image Credit:
Carl Bringas Photography

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.