Author: Marjorie Camarda
The month of January has seen Eagle Rock Boulevard’s Cactus Gallery transformed from an exhibition space to a whimsical aviary. Adorning the gallery’s front room are bright feathered, blue clay and painted birds staring out of surreal canvases. This diverse flock is on display in honor of the Animal Protection Institute’s National Bird Day on January 5.
The Cactus Gallery was opened three years ago by husband and wife duo Abraham Szmulker and Sandra Mastroianni. The two met in Argentina, where Szmulker was born. Aside from “promot[ing] up and coming L.A. artists,” the gallery also sells jewelry made by Szmulker as well as other “artesanias [hand-crafted items] from Argentina.” Mastroianni works in the store and organizes the monthly art exhibits, including the current “Bird Show.”
This month’s featured artist is Joe Pogan, whose media is “‘found metal.'” Using spoon handles, screws, buttons, doorknobs and various other knick-knacks, he has welded dainty little avifauna perched atop hammerheads, golf clubs and hand grenades. His lovely creations are a cross between nature and industry that stimulate both the mind and the eyes.
Another artist whose work on birds also has a very urban feel is Patrick Hemmerlein. Hammerlein uses blacks, blues and yellows to collage scenes of L.A. and the birds that often go unnoticed here. His collages are accented with appropriate text, such as “it’s the city I love.” His fanciful scenes remind us that our home is a habitat we share with other creatures, creatures that give life to both Hammerlein’s art and the community it represents.
For connoisseurs partial to sculpture, artist Patricia Krebs created a delicate three dimensional bird constructed of tree branches with two eye-catching pink feathers as wings. The bright colors, along with the piece’s intricate details and fragile, yet striking presence, make it stand out.
“The birds represent freedom,” Szmulker said. Through the “Bird Show,” viewers can consider the value of birds and other wildlife in our community. They can also learn about cultural traditions in the context of art, through the diverse group of artists whose work is on display in the gallery.
When it comes to the importance of community in Eagle Rock, perhaps Patrick Haemmerlein puts it best in the text from his bird collage: “It’s the peace from the city I seek.” Walk into the Cactus Gallery and you will be greeted by friendly faces that soon become familiar and welcomed into a space humming with excitement and creative energy; Haemmerlein and the rest of Eagle Rock need look no further for a peaceful haven. The Bird Show will be open until February 6.
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