Studio visit with the Clayton Brothers...

Had a chance to visit the studio of the Clayton Brothers a couple weeks back as they prepared for their first major show in Los Angeles in six years. This will be their first major collection of works in Los Angeles since they rocked La Luz De Jesus back in 2003 with their epic 'Six Foot Eleven' show. I still remember how blown away I was by that show. Simply epic in every sense of the word. For those that missed that one, do all you can to make it to Santa Monica this Saturday.

'Jumbo Fruit' will open this Saturday, July 18th at both of Patrick Painter's galleries within Bergamot Station over in Santa Monica. Very ambitious and as you can see below, Rob and Christian have more than stepped up the challenge. I can not wait to see these works all finished and hanging in all their glory this Saturday. A big thanks to Rob & Christian for having me out.

The Clayton Brothers work together closely to construct objects that are both narrative and deeply personal in nature. Front and center are the unique people, animals, and places that occupy the outskirts of the American psyche. These works are created in an obsessively rich, cartoon-inspired manner and often incorporate related audio elements.

They've a rich history and I highly recommend picking up any of their books. Enjoy the pictures below that offer a glimpse into the creative process behind the works that will make up their 'Jumbo Fruit' exhibit(s) opening this Saturday. Above, view a picture of the pinch pot that was the initial point of inspiration for this show, found at a thrift shop, it's now a cherished item in their studio. Sometimes the simplest things can be the catalyst for amazing works.

Tools of the trade.

Rob Clayton at work in the studio.

The big one in progress... this one is going to blow minds this Saturday.

Christian Clayton at work in the studio.

Oh, and book your tickets to Wisconsin now...

MMOCA Madison Museum of Contemporary Art

Rob and Christian Clayton: Inside Out

September 10 through December 19, 2010

The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art will present the first major museum exhibition dedicated to the bold, colorful drawings, paintings, and sculptures of Rob and Christian Clayton.

"Jumbo Fruit" from The Clayton Brothers

This Saturday, July 18th 6-8PM
PATRICK PAINTER INC.
2525 Michigan Avenue, Space B2 in Santa Monica

(On view through August 29th)
www.patrickpainter.com