When
October 13, 2024 | 10:00 am
Additional Event Dates
What
McLennon Pen Co. Gallery is thrilled to premiere a traveling exhibition showcasing a first
look at new collage and resin paintings by artist Ashley Swarts. The exhibition will debut in
Marfa at Do Right Hall during Chinati Weekend, followed by a second showing at McLennon
Pen Co.’s permanent space in Austin.
Swarts is currently based in Austin but remains closely connected to both Marfa, where she
lived for seven years, and her hometown of Las Vegas. These ties inspired the idea of taking
her show on the road. She has been deeply influenced by the distinctive commercial signage
in each city, where bold graphics and unique typography shape the visual landscape. From
vintage light box and neon signs to clever readerboard and marquee messages, the relaxed,
quirky, and humorous style of this Southwestern version of street art features a distinct and
beloved aesthetic that is reflected in Swarts’ paintings.
Ashley Swarts (b. 1989, Las Vegas, Nevada) holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Brigham
Young University. She currently owns and works as an artist at Slowpoke, a hand-poked
tattoo shop in East Austin, Texas. Her early collage paintings on board were first exhibited at
Parron wine bar in Austin in 2017. The sign paintings featured in this exhibition are being
shown for the first time, representing the culmination of eight years of dedicated collaging.
Tickets
Free Event