How do we confront times that feel unprecedentedly dark? Joy and community are crucial weapons against existential angst. Preserving innocence becomes an act of resistance to promote curiosity. In pursuit of these values, a tight knit community of like minded artists has formed. We are pleased to announce POWER GRAB, a group show embracing the absurdity and confusion of the present.

Being a young artist requires a certain naive optimism. It demands inspiration and confidence, even when such things are far from abundant. As we gain life experience we strive to return to childlike wonder in spite of learned cynicism. We cannot regain what is gone, but we can combat disillusion with innocence and humor, retaining and nurturing hope. Humor can be a tool to critically engage, to cope, and generate joy. This show celebrates our collective accomplishments, creating something to look forward to, laugh at, and rejoice.

POWER GRAB refers to us taking charge of what we can control. The work is both a source and vector of inspiration. Our action is a refusal to give in to despair and desensitization. Our art won’t save the day, but can provide a reason to smile, despite it all. To retain positivity for a future that is uncertain, all we can do is move forward in acknowledgement of the absurdity.

Written by Madisen Matsuura and Ira Zimmerman

POWER GRAB is a one night only, pop up art show curated by Kaia Love King-Hall. It will take place on October 18, 2025 from 6:00 - 10:00 PM in Venice, CA.

Exhibiting artists include Caleb Deal, Veronica Dimitrov, Gwyneth Dowdee, Elodie Hekimian-Brogan, Kaia Love King-Hall, Madisen Matsuura, Sofia Piacentini, Lucas Rosales, Ahlina Smart, and Ira Zimmerman.

A percentage of proceeds will be donated to Inclusive Action for the City and Day Laborer Network to support street vendors and day laborers impacted by ICE raids.