I OF LA highlights the kinetic visual energy against an orderly and refined structure to enhance the high degree of visual complexity around us. “I aim for symbolic interactions to create a contrasting visual syntax for I OF LA. The works possess an energetic rawness and were not designed to be exhibited together,” says Mashian.

Mashian explains that the term “emerging artist” can be misleading. So-called emerging artists are sometimes freer and less restrained to experiment with ideas, concepts, and materials that don’t immediately resonate with each other—but the unexpected results can generate energy, a fluidity, that lay previously undiscovered. “I wanted to give these voices a presence in an established gallery,” adds Haleh.

Showcased artists include vivid abstractionist Moises Ortiz, whose arresting works evince an energetic use of color and composition; Terri Lloyd, whose faceless figures grace the stark suburban pastel backgrounds of her childhood; abstract photographer of ordinary household items, Laura Hull; urban street artist and portraitist, Jacob Root; modern-day Lichenstein descendant, Dan Litzinger, whose pop-comic style mixes mid-century aesthetics with current pop culture imagery; the minimalist installation art of Alex Chiu among many others.