New L.A. Exhibit Speaks About Worker’s Rights

by: Robin Newman

Andrea Bowers presents a new body of work in her exhibit “Help the Work Along.”

Bowers’ work is often involved in politics and social issues, and this work follows suit by addressing worker’s rights, gender and immigration.

A sculpture echoing activist activity runs the length of the gallery. It is made of a series of tables spread with worker’s rights brochures and flyers. The sculpture works both as an archive of these pamphlets and a way for them to reach art viewers and patrons.

A selection of videos documenting aspects of recent Los Angeles protests are played on the walls above the tables. A series of colorful text based drawings are seen, representative of political signage. They are, in fact, reproductions of graphics Bowers is developing for the Dream Act movement: a series of three large scale drawings made on collaged card board with a dominant presence. These drawings revive past political graphics, such as the worker’s holiday May Day. A series of smaller photo-realistic drawings show women holding protest signs.

 

Andrea Bowers’ “Help the Work Along” runs through October 20th, 2012 at Susan Vielmetter Los Angeles Projects 6006 Washington BlvdCulver City, CA 90232