Shakespeare in LA

On Friday, June 12, the Daniel Rolnik Gallery in Santa Monica is opening a new exhibit entitled The Fake History of the World, curated by art critic Daniel Rolnik. Rolnik showcases original art and prints that are hip and fun, with plenty of humor thrown in for good measure, just a stone’s throw from the ocean.

One of the artists who will be showing his work is Michael C. Hsiung, and one of Michael’s illustrations is inspired by none other than William Shakespeare. I’m always interested in how Shakespeare influences contemporary creative people, whether the medium is theatre, dance, music, or art, so I asked Michael to tell us about his Shakespeare connection.

“In college I was an English major, so often a lot of my drawings are titled after lengthy title chapters or influenced by writing and histories. Naturally I gravitated towards Shakespeare’s works and histories, and even studied abroad a semester in Bath, England. I had a whole course on Shakespeare when I was there too. I was always fascinated by what was behind Shakespeare’s genius, as well as the various theories about whether or not he was actually real. I remember visiting his house, seeing Othello in the theater, and then skinny dipping with classmates in the Stratford Upon Avon. In terms of my artwork, I find that my interests in literature always show up in my drawings — in the title, from a story, or just by creating my own narrative. These things tend to seep out when I’m doodling.” 

In the video below, Michael talks more about his work and what it was like growing up in LA. For more about the artist, go to www.michaelchsiung.com.

Oh, and by the way, the gallery will also hold its first ever Cornhole Tournament at the opening of The Fake History of The World on June 12. The winner will receive the cornhole board [24” x 48”] built and painted by one of the gallery’s artists for the tournament. Early registration for the tournament is $5 per player. Registration at the opening reception is $7. Sign up Here.

The Daniel Rolnik Gallery also hosts a number of additional free events, including monthly hangouts with their artists that are open to the public where you can meet and mingle with other art lovers in their comfortable, low-key environment. On the first Sunday of the month, you can hang out at their Record Club from 2:00 – 6:00 pm. Bring your vinyl records for them to play on their turntable while everyone in attendance gathers around the gallery to paint, draw, and tell stories.

The Fake History of The World
Featuring works by Michael C. Hsiung, Porous Walker, Ferris Plock, Don Pendelton, Jon Stich, Donny Miller, and Aaron Hodges
Friday, June 12, 2015 (7:00 – 11:00 pm)
Daniel Rolnik Gallery
1431 Ocean Avenue,
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Click Here for parking and more information
The gallery is open daily from Noon – 7pm
www.DanielRolnikGallery.com

Pictured right: “Portrait of Shakespeare eating Sir Edmund’s hot dog” by Michael C. Hsiung