Skip to Content
Art

Recap: Dark Progressivism: MOAH ~ Lancaster

Dark Progressivism: The Built Environment delves into the impact the manmade landscape has had on the residents of Southern California: housing projects, commercial developments, freeways, the Los Angeles River and the Metro system. Dark Progressivism is an artistic style that developed organically out of graffiti and tattooing, consciously and unconsciously influenced by German Expressionism, film noir, typography, and the design elements present in Southern California. Participating artist and LA TACO senior photographer Erwin Recinos brings you a look at opening night of this exhibit...

Artist and K2S member Joe "Prime" Reza in front of his piece at the opening. Prime also contributed a "street-corner" installation inside the museum for the exhibition.


Stunning set of pieces by artist Carlos Ramirez, using signage mixed media to create a stylized installation.

Artist Gajin Fujita and photographer Steve Grody chopping it up during the opening.

A detailed look at Jaime Scholnick and her stylized acrylic painting style.

Artist Juan Carlos Munoz Hernandez with his contribution to the exhibition.

Musician Leafar Seyer of PRAYERS next to his piece for opening night.

"213" collab between photographer Jim McHugh, Prime and Big Sleeps. Mixed media including collaged 8x10 polaroid stills.

Street scene from the city of Boyle Heights painted by artist Manuel Lopez.


Dark Progressivism curator Rodrigo d'Ebre talking about the origins and ideas behind the exhibition.

6th Street Bridge survey by photographer Estevan Oriol before it's destruction in early 2016.

A unique light painting construction by Lynwood based artist Felix Quintana.

On the title card of the exhibition is this painting by Michael Alvarez. I was told this painting took just over a year to create. The color and depth wonderful.

Installation in the museum hall by artist Prime which is made set in place for visitors to contribute to during the life of the exhibit at MOAH.

Dark Progressivism: The Built Environment will be on display til January 14th 2018. Two upcoming events coinciding with the exhibition:

Art & Science Discussion Panel on Sunday December 10, 2pm.
Dark Progressivism Zine Fest on Sunday January 7, 12pm - 5pm.

Follow @darkprogressivism for more information and details about the upcoming events.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from L.A. TACO

Bar Nuda Takes Over Venice With Zero-Proof Carajillos, Sushi-Grade Tostadas, and ‘Sade Night’

“We launched Bar Nuda to create a sober, social, safe space where people can go out, make connections, get those deep belly laughs, and without the pressure of drinking booze, while also celebrating our beautiful Mexican culture,” says one of the founders.

May 22, 2025

California DOJ Finally Begins Reviewing Wrongful Convictions, Following L.A. TACO Report

This comes four months after L.A. TACO first reported that the PCJU had not begun accepting applications from defendants who say they were wrongfully convicted, nearly two years after Attorney General Rob Bonta made headlines for launching the DOJ’s first-ever post-conviction review unit. 

May 22, 2025

L.A. TACO’s Guide To The Best Mariscos, Tacos, and Drinking Spots In Ensenada

Drive into Baja California from downtown San Diego to hit one of Mexico's seafood powerhouses: Ensenada, home to the most crucial port city that supplies the majority of pristine seafood to the rest of the country (and even bluefin tuna to Japan). It’s also a laid-back destination where many flock for the perfect battered fish taco in the state where that beloved taco style was created.

May 22, 2025

Self-Deport or Stand Firm: The Heartbreak of L.A.’s Undocumented Street Vendors

Trump’s crackdown on immigration could disrupt Los Angeles’ thriving street vending industry, and in some cases, already has. Some street vendors have reduced their presence on the street. Vendors Camacho and Lopez have gone from five days a week to just vending on the weekends.

May 21, 2025

This Crispy Honduran Fried Chicken Is Harvard Heights’ Juiciest Hidden Secret

Tucked away in a strip mall on Western Avenue, this spot serves crispy Honduran fried chicken that’s juicy and bursting with flavor. Served with tajadas and chimol-topped cabbage, it’s a must-try for L.A.'s fried chicken-obsessed.

May 20, 2025

Punk Icon Shawn Stern On the World’s Best Underground Scene (and Surviving Slam Dancing in the Desert)

We caught up with Shawn Stern on the day after Youth Brigade played first show in five years with all three brothers in the lineup again. To get his insights on the how L.A. became—and continues to be—the epicenter of underground punk rock, and practical tips for surviving the chaos and camaraderie of Punk Rock Bowling this weekend in downtown Las Vegas.

May 20, 2025
See all posts