Travis Millard, "No Pressure" Show at THIS Gallery Los Angeles Review

Travis Millard opened his latest solo exhibition entitled, “No Pressure”, at THIS Gallery last Friday, March 22, 2013. The show features the most recent artworks from Millard. A dog riding the waves, a mob of shocked faces, bums in an affectionate brotherly embrace; the randomness of the imagery that inhabits Millard’s works on paper is immense. And this randomness, for me, is what makes the show both visually addicting and exciting.

Words by Crist Espiritu.
Photos by Mark Changco.

"Surf Dawg" | 8" x 10" | Ink on Paper

Most of the erratic scenarios the artist presents in his works are little fleeting moments of contemporary city living. As if seeing these scenes through youthful and fun-loving eyes the artist turns them into light hearted renditions as opposed to another artwork brimming with angst. In pieces like “Surf Dawg” the artist shows this youthful and careless sensitivity. The reference to the surf and skate culture gives the show a very fun vibe.

"After It" | 48" x 40" | Graphite and Ink on Paper

In “After It” a 40” x 48’ graphite and ink on paper, Travis Millard’s talent on creating narrative images becomes apparent. Two bums locked in a brotherly embrace stand in the middle of a pile of garbage and broken glass. A dead rat lies on the corner amplifying the decay that’s going on in the picture. The expressions on both men’s faces show sorrow and regret. Although what’s taking place is not evident, one cannot help but attach a story to the piece because there is a sense that’s whatever going on in it is beautiful. Through the artist’s cartoonish drawing style, what otherwise would be a depressing scene turns into an undisclosed moment wherein hope abounds.

Travis Millard’s “No Pressure” is currently on view at THIS Gallery at 5906 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles 90042.

Follow Crist Espiritu on Twitter and Instagram @crist_espiritu

"Tuffskins" | 36" x 24" | Graphite and Ink on Paper
"Starry Eyes" | 8.5" x 8" | Ink on Paper
"Rogue" | 10" x 9" | Ink on Paper
"Important Emmission" | 9.25" x 4.25" | Ink and Collage on Envelope
"Spooked Dog" | 10" x 8" | Ink on Paper
"Usurper" | 7.25" x 8" | Ink on Paper
"Smoochers" | 24" x 24" | Ink on Paper
"Ninety Nine" | 13.5" x 11.5" | Ink on Paper
"Poked Eye" | 10" x 8" | Ink on Paper
"Abandoned Geyser" and "Awed Crowd Redux" | Ink on Paper
"Riverside" | 44" x 30" | Ink on Paper