Observant neighbors may have noticed that the name on the fine-art gallery at the corner of Golden Gate and Leavenworth has changed ever-so-slightly, from "Bash" to "Smash." The name change comes as a new team has taken over the gallery, where it hopes to retain fans of the former occupant while creating an inclusive new space for Tenderloin artists and residents.
Smash Gallery is a "natural and logical transition," said David Fenton, a local artist and one of two partners in the new gallery. Fenton, who was mentored by Bash Contemporary owner Anthony Luzi for years, says he couldn't pass up the opportunity to take over the gallery space when Luzi decided to seek a new home for Bash. He and partner Lillie Troy hope those familiar with Bash will see the new name, wonder if the two are affiliated, and pop in to explore.
Photo: Smash Gallery/Facebook
But while the duo want to honor Bash's legacy, they're also looking to shake things up. The name Smash refers to their vision for the gallery: "smashing convention through art," Fenton said. As "proponents of risk-taking," the gallery will showcase daring artists who push the envelope.
With that ethos in mind, Smash's team launched the gallery's first exhibition, Familiar Deconstructed, a few weeks ago. Focusing on abstract figurative art, it features a diverse lineup of "contemporary, edgy rule-breakers." Four of the seven featured artists are based in San Francisco, including a recent San Francisco Art Institute graduate as well as one instructor at the Academy of Art and one at The Art Institute of California. Each piece offers an unusual look, but they all come together nicely, Fenton said.
Photo: Smash Gallery / Facebook
Being a part of the Tenderloin community—and not just another "snobby art gallery"—is just as important to Smash Gallery's mission as the art it showcases, Troy said. Once the gallery finds its footing, it plans to dedicate a section of the gallery to talented Tenderloin artists. They also plan to partner with neighbors like 826 Valencia, which is moving in just across the way, to host interactive community events like workshops for children and artist talks.
"Our main goal is to be a really accessible gallery," Troy said. "We want people to feel comfortable appreciating art and relate to what we're showing."
Smash Gallery is open to the public Wednesday-Saturday from 12-5pm. The semi-private closing event for Familiar Deconstructed will be held on the evening of Saturday, August 29th; keep an eye on the gallery's Facebook page to RSVP. Details for the next exhibition opening, slated for Saturday, September 12th, are forthcoming as well.
