We Are Known By The Company We Keep

http://www.phoenixmars.com/blog/2014/4/28/desire-obtain-cherish-we-are-known-by-the-company-we-keep

Jonathan Paul aka Desire Obtain Cherish (DOC), was born in Salinas, California in 1975 and graduated from Parson's School of Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. His first solo show in Los Angeles in 2011 has since led to features at various local and international art shows. He has subsequently developed a reputation for being one of the art world's bad boys, not afraid to poke fun at his critics, collectors and historians. 

The LA based pop sculptor uses his artistic pseudonym as a commentary on the standard cycle of consumerism, which is prevalent in his extensive back-catalogue. His most recent exhibit,'We Are Known By the Company We Keep', at UNIX gallery in Chelsea, New York, deals predominately with our society's obsession with wealth, body image and fame, as well as everything that comes as a result (drug abuse, sex and self-indulgence).

The exhibit is truly an immersive experience, as the gallery is pumped with a sweet smelling aroma, which compliments the glossy, bright and bubbly coloured art pieces that hang on the wall, as well as an array of sculptures and installations. 

The tone for the exhibit is immediately set with the first piece, 'Waste of Good Wall Space', which is on display in the front window. Two immediately recognisable acrylic iPhone text bubbles read: "Looks like this is a waste of good wall space to me." The reply stating: "I know right? I’m a decent wall and I think I deserve better art." The exhibit also features 'Intensive Care Units', opulent gold and nickel plated IV drips, with logos of designer clothing and luxury car companies embossed onto each bag, an accurate depiction of our obsession with brand and status. 

Each piece is a very intentional tongue-in-cheek critique on the current state of the art scene, as well as a broader look at Westernised society. The work is a mixture of conceptual, pop and street art, with many appropriated styles and images. 

'We Are Known By the Company We Keep' will be on display until May 6, 2014.

- UNIX New York, 532 W 24th Street, New York NY