Installation view. Courtesy of gallery.

Installation view Kagami. Courtesy of gallery.

Currently on view at Green Gallery, Milwaukee is a two-person exhibition “The Future is Stupid” featuring new works by Ken Kagami and Scott Reeder.  When you visit the exhibition you immediately feel a welcoming vibe and gravitate towards the walls that are decorated in mixed media works hung in a salon style fashion, accompanied by a few benches with additional works placed on top.  Kagami uses found objects and readymades for his sculptural assemblages that are rooted in sexual humor and embrace the “one liner”.  His work discusses his views on contemporary consumerism and the absurd detritus that is produced as a bi-product.

Ken Kagami, Yoko Ohno!, 2013. Courtesy of gallery.

Ken Kagami, Burger Vagina, 2006. Courtesy of gallery.

Ken Kagami, Bra, 2008. Courtesy of gallery.

Scott Reeder, Free Acid, 2013. Courtesy of gallery.

Scott Reeder, Fake Work, 2013. Courtesy of gallery.

Along the wall behind the tables displaying Kagami’s objects is a horizontal line of paintings by Reeder.  Almost all of the paintings are painted with vibrant pigments, with the exception of a  few grey scale works, which help break up the linear display.  Text is the foundation of these works and operate closely to works by Ed Ruscha with their slight gradations and color shifts.  All of the paintings on this wall emphasize only two words making up phases, which also embrace the “one liner” offering quick gestures through language.

Performance at Green Gallery. Courtesy of gallery

In the back room is Club Nutz, a miniature comedy and dance club run by both Reeder and Kagami.  They hosted an array of programming including a drawing class, Dj sets, and comedy performances.  We weren’t able to attend, but from looking at images it seemed like a lively event.

DFW!

When looking at the exhibition it becomes clear that pop culture is a major influence as well as underground street culture which adds an immense energy to the gallery space.  Its easy to drift into each work and enjoy the simplistic nature that Redder and Kagami project through their work.  Strait to the point and brings a smile to your face.

For more information visit here.

-Contributed by Miso Hungeri