RELAY, September 8- October 18 2010- Klowden Mann

In the RELAY series I investigate the relationship of the figure, in and out of context. Working within the two cities, Los Angeles and Tokyo, I placed myself with these urban environments, studying chance moments of figure and public space. The paintings explore the micro migrations of daily passage; the crosswalks, subways and concrete paths that organize our global understanding of "city." Studying how unconscious relationship happens. Relay is a study of the way in which public space claims, rejects and endures the ever-changing configurations of bodies in transit. I wanted to paint what is shared and distinct between these two cities. How culture influences our connection and sense of being alone. Ultimately, my study is a universal question of awareness: How and when are we conscious of one another, and when does a space assume presence for us? Much of this work began with photographs that stirred some sense about mobility, relationship and identity. As a recent migrator to Los Angeles, these painting served as a trail marker of sorts, organizing my own paradoxical sense of connection and isolation.