Downtown Los Angeles’ Corey Helford Gallery (CHG) is excited to unveil its forthcoming major solo exhibition, “Spirited Away,” showcasing an array of new works by the celebrated British artist Kai Clements of Kai & Sunny. Set to open on Saturday, September 21st, in the Main Gallery, this exhibition promises to elevate the artist’s oeuvre to unprecedented heights. Attendees can anticipate an impressive collection of over 25 new artworks, complemented by collaborative pieces with globally renowned artists Shepard Fairey and D*Face, a limited-edition silkscreen print release, a skateboard deck collaboration with Element Skateboards, and several other unique offerings.
Kai & Sunny have garnered international recognition for their meticulous and intricate creative process, which involves the creation of razor-thin colored lines using acrylic paint. “Spirited Away” will feature a series of captivating new abstract paintings on linen canvas, each showcasing Kai’s signature style in a mesmerizing display.
This new collection of meticulously crafted kinetic artworks weaves a narrative of adventure and the beauty found in embracing new experiences. The paintings evoke a sense of exploration and mystery, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of personal growth. These hypnotic and atmospheric pieces transport viewers to an otherworldly realm, encouraging them to embark on their own paths of self-discovery and to ponder the wonders of the unknown. The artworks, imbued with undertones of iridescent spirit-like imagery, offer fresh interpretations that convey serenity and energy. Through vibrant color, texture, shape, and movement, these artworks deliver the message that enduring challenges can lead to joy, freedom, and peace.
Reflecting on the upcoming exhibition, Kai shares: “I’m captivated by the power of the natural world, and with these works, I aimed to explore those precious unseen moments such as the frequencies within nature. My goal is to immerse the viewer in the forces of nature and use color, light, and movement to guide them through a journey of courage. At certain points in our lives, we may change, potentially losing parts of ourselves in the process. Even amidst such obstacles, there is hope on the horizon, and letting go enables us to move forward.”
Collaboration is a fundamental aspect of the artist’s practice, and a section of the “Spirited Away” solo show is dedicated to the theme of “UNITY.” This segment will feature collaborative works by Shepard Fairey, DFace, and Kai & Sunny. Their individual yet complementary styles have evolved over time alongside their friendships, which began during a shared college experience between DFace and Kai & Sunny and continued through an ongoing collaboration with Fairey since 2013. The artists draw inspiration from nature, relationships, and global politics, making their joint work a cohesive and compelling display.
In addition to the canvases, “Spirited Away” will also showcase two digital artworks created in collaboration with Fakery, an England-based 3D design and animation studio. These digital pieces are meticulously choreographed to an ambient soundtrack composed by the Emmy-nominated English duo Toydrum, featuring Pablo Clements and James Griffith. Furthermore, in conjunction with the exhibition, Kai & Sunny will release a limited-edition silkscreen print and two skateboard decks, produced in collaboration with Element Skateboards and featuring artwork from the show. These prints and skateboard decks will be available for purchase at the gallery on opening night, September 21st.
Open to the public and free of charge, “Spirited Away” will debut on Saturday, September 21st, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm in the Main Gallery. Concurrently, the gallery will host a two-artist show featuring new works by Los Angeles-based artist Andrea Guzzetta, titled “Afterglow,” and Korean artist Kiseok Kim, titled “Plastic,” in Gallery 3. Both exhibitions will remain on view through October 26th, offering an enriching experience for all art enthusiasts.
