Scooter LaForge Homo Eruptus

Opening Reception: February 14, 2019 / 6–9 PM
February 14–March 13, 2019

SSB is pleased to announce a major exhibition of a new body of work by Scooter LaForge at our partner Howl! Happening in New York. Homo Eruptus, is an installation of 5 large, mural-size paintings that mine the artist’s fertile inner emotional realm. Whether it’s expressed on the mammoth canvases on view at the gallery, or a t-shirt or cast-off article of clothing—Scooter paints with an earnestness that responds in the moment. “I paint what I feel, rather than what I see,” the artist says. Prehistoric cave paintings and the erotic murals of Pompeii mix with childhood memories and his experiences as a gay youth in leather bars, creating an orgy of images that personalize and tap into the emotional content of his daily life and current interests. For more information.

About Scooter LaForge

Scooter LaForge was born in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and moved to New York City in 2001 for a Cooper Union residency. Living in the East Village for the past 17 years, his unique style has garnered the interest of curators and collectors. His work mines the rich catalog of art history, infusing classical themes with a colorful sensibility. Bridging the gap between pop art and contemporary painting, LaForge’s work redefines the medium for today. LaForge works in various media, including painting, sculpture, and drawing, employing unorthodox techniques and striking iconic images. In 2015, the artist was awarded a Pollock-Krasner Foundation grant. He is a frequent collaborator with his good friend Patricia Field. Shown internationally, Scooter recently exhibited Creation of the Animals at Empirical Nonsense and his second solo show at HOWL! Happening, Homo Eruptus, opens February 2019.

James, Will You Be My Girlfriend?, 2018. 10 x 16 feet

A fully illustrated catalogue accompanies the exhibition with essays by Bill Arning, Darren Jones, Sur Rodney (Sur), and Carlo McCormick. LaForge will also lead a free Vega Arts Workshop, Howl!’s series offering community members access to working artists and opportunities to express themselves through the visual arts.

Wednesday, February 27, 2019 / 7–9 PM / Free

Scooterwear Workshop

Scooter LaForge leads participants into the world of fantasy and imagination by fashioning a statement piece of wearable art from a basic, white t-shirt. Acrylic paints and all materials will be provided. Limited to 15 people. Register here to reserve space!

Federico, Will You Be My Girlfriend?, 2019. 132 x 168 inches