Breaking walls: A Virtual Journey
During the pandemic, I found myself in the midst of converting a house in Silver Lake, Los Angeles, into three apartments. The raw, unfinished structure, bathed in beautiful, stark light during demolition, sparked an idea. Known for my outside-the-box thinking, I saw an opportunity to turn this construction site into an innovative art space. This is how "Breaking Walls" was conceived—a virtual exhibition that addresses the unaffordable housing crisis while celebrating the transformative process of creation.
Given the pandemic's constraints, I wanted to reimagine the traditional art exhibition by bringing it to a virtual platform. This wasn't just a practical decision; it was a creative challenge to engage with art and space in a new, immersive way. "Breaking Walls" isn't just an exhibition; it's a commentary on the housing crisis, captured in a setting that mirrors the themes of transition and construction.
I chose Charlotte Vanhaecke, also known as Chalavie, to feature in this exhibition. I first discovered her work at the Mar Vista Art Studios, and her diverse artistic approach resonated with the concept of transformation. Born in Armentieres, France, and now based in Los Angeles, Chalavie explores a range of styles, from figurative art to abstract pieces. Her recent series, "Cityscapes/Construction," perfectly encapsulates the essence of urban change, depicting moments of demolition and construction with a striking sense of beauty and paradox [oai_citation:1,About | chalavie](https://www.chalavie.com/about) [oai_citation:2,French Artist | Chalavie Art | United States](https://www.chalavie.com/).
The exhibition also includes a powerful mural on the garage door, further emphasizing the theme of breaking barriers and addressing the pressing issue of unaffordable housing. This mural serves as a bold statement in an already evocative space, merging art with social commentary.
Accompanying Chalavie's art is videography by Mudpeach, whose work adds depth to this virtual experience. The video captures the dynamic interplay of light, art, and the raw construction site, inviting viewers to reflect on the themes of transformation and creation.
"Breaking Walls" invites you to appreciate the art of becoming, to find beauty in unfinished spaces, and to engage with art in a way that transcends traditional boundaries. This virtual exhibition isn't just about observing—it's about experiencing the transformative journey of both art and space.
Join us in this virtual exploration and consider adding a piece of Chalavie's work to your collection. Celebrate art that thrives in transformation and addresses critical social issues. For more about Chalavie and her extraordinary work, www.chalavie.com.
