Exploring Contemporary Abstract Art in Los Angeles: From Marcel Dzama’s Fantastical Nightscapes to Immersive Sculptures and Introspective Interiors
Los Angeles is alive this summer with a rich lineup of contemporary abstract art exhibitions that explore deep social themes, natural forms, and personal introspection. Notably, artist Marcel Dzama’s new exhibition, Empress of Night, on view at David Zwirner’s LA gallery, presents a surreal and politically charged vision through fantastical imagery that blends emotional depth with allegorical storytelling. Other standout shows include the Ground Work group exhibition at Sean Kelly gallery, which highlights abstract artists investigating unseen forces shaping landscapes, and the sculpture exhibition Curvature by Santa Fe artist Michael Wilding at Hotel Bel-Air’s gardens. Additionally, solo exhibitions such as Luchita Hurtado’s retrospective at Hauser & Wirth DTLA and Christina Kimeze’s interiors exploration in West Hollywood add cultural and emotional breadth to LA’s abstract art scene.
Marcel Dzama’s Empress of Night: A Surreal Reflection on Modern Turmoil and Hope
Marcel Dzama’s Empress of Night (June 28–August 8, 2025) at David Zwirner Los Angeles offers viewers entry into a lush and sometimes flooded nocturnal world populated by anthropomorphic animals and dancing figures set against dense junglescapes and expansive skies. His recent works evoke references to the surrealist tradition and politically significant figures like Francisco Goya and Federico García Lorca, connecting historical unrest with contemporary social and ecological crises.
Some pieces overtly comment on the rise of authoritarianism and threats to democracy and human rights, a reflection of the unstable global political climate. Dzama’s typical nocturnal working hours inspire the moody nightscapes that shimmer with stars and moons, imbuing even somber themes with a flicker of hope and wonder. Noteworthy works include The sleep of reason produces monsters (2025), a nod to Goya’s iconic print, and an intricate triptych titled Blue water blues (2024), portraying vibrant marine life.
Ground Work at Sean Kelly Gallery: Abstract Artists Unearth Invisible Landscape Forces
Across town, the Sean Kelly gallery hosts Ground Work, a compelling group show spotlighting abstract artists who explore the imperceptible forces shaping the environment and human experience. Through experimental forms, these artists invite viewers to contemplate nature’s hidden energies and the psychological landscapes beneath our everyday surroundings.
Michael Wilding’s Curvature: Immersive Sculpture Inspired by Natural Forms
At Hotel Bel-Air’s garden setting, Santa Fe artist Michael Wilding presents Curvature, a sculpture exhibition that immerses visitors in organic shapes and flowing forms. His work captures the essence of nature’s geometry, blending elegance with experiential depth and inviting reflection on our connection with the natural world.
Additional Highlights: Luchita Hurtado and Christina Kimeze
The art scene downtown features Luchita Hurtado’s retrospective at Hauser & Wirth DTLA, celebrating her impactful contributions to abstract and figurative art. Meanwhile, West Hollywood showcases Christina Kimeze’s interior-inspired abstractions, offering a nuanced exploration of space, light, and color through non-representational forms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What themes does Marcel Dzama explore in Empress of Night?
Dzama’s exhibition blends surreal imagery referencing historical figures with contemporary social and ecological issues, including authoritarianism, democracy threats, and environmental concerns, all set in otherworldly nocturnal landscapes.
Q2: Where is the Ground Work exhibition held and what is its focus?
Ground Work is at Sean Kelly gallery in Los Angeles, focusing on abstract artists examining invisible forces that influence both natural and psychological landscapes.
Q3: What can visitors expect from Michael Wilding’s Curvature show?
Visitors will encounter immersive sculptures inspired by the natural world’s organic curves and structures, encouraging reflection on nature’s underlying geometry.
Q4: Are there opportunities to see historic and contemporary abstract works in LA this summer?
Yes, Luchita Hurtado’s retrospective at Hauser & Wirth DTLA offers insights into her influential abstract works, while Christina Kimeze's exhibitions present contemporary abstract approaches inspired by interior spaces.
Q5: How long does Marcel Dzama’s Empress of Night run?
The exhibition is open from June 28 through August 8, 2025, at David Zwirner’s Los Angeles gallery located at 606 N Western Avenue.
These exhibitions collectively highlight Los Angeles as a fertile ground for contemporary abstract art, where artists use innovative forms to address timely social issues, explore hidden natural forces, and invite personal introspection.