818 S Spring St, Los Angeles CA 90014
Thursday, October 3 at 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Ends Oct 31, 2024
Estabrook Studios is proud to present Skulls: The Archival Edit, a solo exhibition of new and archival works by Los Angeles-based contemporary artist Brent Estabrook. The exhibition will debut on Thursday, October 3rd, with an opening reception from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and will remain on view through October 27th.
At the heart of Skulls: The Archival Edit is a reflection of Estabrook’s artistic journey, tracing his evolution from detailed representationalism to bold, textural abstraction. These skulls, painted almost entirely with a palette knife, use thick layers of paint to break down the form, pushing beyond traditional depictions of skulls as symbols of mortality. Estabrook instead reimagines them as vibrant expressions of life, creativity, and transformation.
A recurring subject in Estabrook’s work, the skull is both a familiar and deeply personal form for the artist, who holds a background in dental anatomy. While early paintings in the series focus on the precision of form, later pieces dive into abstraction, where color and texture build a new narrative.
The title Skulls: The Archival Edit signals a return to Estabrook’s roots, revisiting some of his earliest explorations of skulls. The exhibition presents both iconic pieces and never-before-seen works, offering viewers a glimpse into the full spectrum of Estabrook’s ongoing exploration of life through art. Each piece invites the viewer to experience the tactile energy of his work and reflect on the many layers—both literal and metaphorical—within.
About Brent Estabrook
Brent Estabrook is a contemporary artist known for his bold use of color, texture, and form. With a background in both dentistry and fine art, Estabrook’s work blends technical precision with creative abstraction. His Skull Series has been widely recognized for its ability to bring a fresh, life-affirming perspective to a traditional symbol. He is also the artist behind the Stuffed Animal Piles series, which similarly explores childhood nostalgia and playful energy.