Kenton Parker: Space and Light

[Los Angeles, CA - September 2023] - Esteemed LA-based artist, Kenton Parker, is pleased to announce his public return to the arts through a highly inspired solo show at albertz benda Los Angeles, following a 3-year-long hiatus. Continuing his conceptual journalistic approach, Kenton will be confronting his struggle with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse through a profound solo show at the intimate gallery space. Set to open on October 7th, 2023, the exhibition will feature never-before-seen works from the artist’s self-examination, offering visitors a look into his ever-evolving mind.

With success across commissioned works, private sales, solo exhibitions, and design projects and collaborations, Kenton arrived at the height of his career with endless cause for celebration. But in time, he went from a high-functioning addict to hitting rock bottom. With health and mental conditions mounting, Kenton found himself living within a catastrophic darkness. Brought to a crippling reality, he came to the end of himself, confronted with the dark recognition of his own mortality.

Over the course of the past few years, daily saunters through nature became a source of comfort and therapy, allowing the artist to ruminate on his own darkness. Emerging through the chaos of his inner agony came a newfound gratitude. Reconciling himself and his inner child, Kenton found atonement through sobriety and his connection with his community and family – all cataloged through his painting, which throughout his time away, has never stopped.

“Everything about Kenton Parker is quintessentially Los Angeles – from his life to his art. From an early age he has been deeply immersed in the vast artistic landscape the city has to offer, including the temptations and challenges that too often come with an illustrious life in the arts. From energetic career success to a boiling breakdown, Kenton has rebuilt. I am immensely proud of all that Kenton has achieved – for his life and in his art and I am honored to showcase the latter, shares Thorsten Albertz, Founding Partner - albertz benda

A personable and sensitive character, Kenton emphasizes the impact his romantic relationships, friendships, and family have had on his growth and self-discovery. The highly emotional and impulsive Starburst series is inspired by and named after the people who have touched his life. With colorful lines meeting at an apex, each color informs the next. Part portrait, part self-portrait, the pieces depict his evolution throughout the course of the relationships and develop with Kenton as time moves forward.

“It takes a city to raise an artist.” - Kenton Parker

The show will be on view from October 7th through November 4th at albertz benda Los Angeles, with an opening reception taking place on Saturday, October 7th from 6pm-9pm. The exhibition will be open to the public for viewing during gallery hours.