Graffiti and Artistic Expression at the LA Art Show

In early 2024, graffiti artists infiltrated the incomplete Oceanwide Plaza skyscraper in downtown Los Angeles, leaving their mark with large, colorful tags on the building's exterior. This act of urban expression quickly gained attention, with some taggers livestreaming their exploits, leading to viral footage of base-jumpers launching from the 49-story structure. Two years later, the site remains abandoned and vandalized, inspiring Los Angeles artist Sayre Gomez to create a nearly nine-foot-tall sculpture replicating the construction site. Gomez, who has established himself as a documentarian of Los Angeles's urban landscape, plans to unveil this work at his solo exhibition at the David Kordansky Gallery on January 16, 2026.

New York Times

The 31st edition of the LA Art Show, running from January 9 to 11, 2026, at the Los Angeles Convention Center, serves as a significant platform for contemporary art. Despite being perceived as commercial and somewhat out of touch, the fair features curated projects that highlight its cultural relevance. Curator Marisa Caichiolo has organized the first Latin American Pavilion, showcasing artists from Brazil, Mexico, Guatemala, and Peru, among others. This initiative aims to address the historical underrepresentation of Latin American artists at the fair.

Hyperallergic

The LA Art Show includes a non-commercial section called DIVERSEartLA, focusing on biennials and featuring works from various international exhibitions. Notably, a mini-retrospective of artist Marcos Ramírez, known as ERRE, emphasizes themes of Latine identity and immigration. His installation "187 Pairs of Hands," which responds to California Proposition 187, remains relevant in light of recent events, including the killing of Renee Nicole Macklin Good by ICE agents. ERRE's poignant commentary on labor and resilience resonates within the current socio-political climate.

Hyperallergic

Curator Marisa Caichiolo expressed her commitment to amplifying Latin American voices within the art community, stating, “They’re artists that people here may not know, but they're so powerful in their own communities.” This sentiment reflects a broader goal of fostering cultural exchange and representation at the LA Art Show.

Hyperallergic

Despite its efforts, the LA Art Show faces criticism for being perceived as less innovative compared to other upcoming fairs like Frieze and Felix. Some critics argue that it lacks the cutting-edge appeal that contemporary art enthusiasts seek, which may deter potential visitors.

Hyperallergic

As the LA Art Show unfolds, it will continue to serve as a critical venue for artists like Ritu Raj, who will showcase his abstract works, and others who challenge traditional narratives through their art. The event not only highlights the diversity of contemporary art but also invites dialogue on pressing social issues, making it a noteworthy destination for collectors and art lovers alike.

Ritu Raj Exhibits at the LA Art Show 2026 — Booth 702

• “If I could just take it and shrink it down, I would,” — Sayre Gomez, Artist

New York Times

• “How can you stop a waterfall? You can't. You need to freeze the whole river.” — Marcos Ramírez (ERRE), Artist

Hyperallergic

• “They tried to suppress us, surround us, and cage the workers, but everybody's still working, right now,” — Marcos Ramírez (ERRE), Artist

Hyperallergic