In 'I'm Listening,' Barry McGee Celebrates Positivity in the Face of Distress and Overwhelm
Briefly

Barry McGee, a prominent artist from San Francisco, draws deep inspiration from his local subculture, specifically from marginalized communities like skaters and street artists. His solo exhibition, "I'm Listening," showcases the vibrancy of his multidisciplinary practice, featuring dynamic sculptures and paintings that highlight societal critiques while celebrating human creativity. As a member of the Mission School, McGee’s work intersects urban realism and subversive aesthetics, making significant commentary on society. The exhibition captures a rich tapestry of color and texture, transforming mundane objects into profound art pieces.
"I focus on everything that is shitty on our little planet right now," McGee says. Expressions of disgust or surprise are paired with playfulness, though.
"This fact is important because his art would be profoundly different had he chosen to move to another American city." - Richard Leydier.
McGee adopts various monikers in his graffiti writing and integrates painting and printmaking into his expansive, multidisciplinary practice.
I'm Listening erupts with color, pattern, and texture through a bounty of sculptures, paintings, prints, and assemblages that reimagine everyday objects.
Read at Colossal
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