Client: Long Beach Museum of Art
Creative Director: Nathan Spoor
Design: Wendy Peng
Cover Art: James Jean
Publisher: Gingko Press
MXW / Masterworks: Defining a New Narrative was an all time attendance-record setting exhibition held at the prestigious Long Beach Museum of Art in Long Beach, CA from October 23, 2014 - February 1, 2015.
Curator and author Nathan Spoor connected Masterworks: Defining A New Narrative as a unique exhibition of large-scale paintings chosen specifically for the eponymous exhibition at the Long Beach Museum of Art. The concept focuses on 14 seasoned painters consistently dedicated to conquering new ground for the last decade or more.
The term Masterworks was chosen not only for its obvious connotation towards the artists' exceptional understanding of their craft, but also as a nod to each individual's dedication to producing finely crafted works on their path to personal and professional excellence in the arts.
While the exhibition seeks to define the new contemporary narrative, the book goes even further, featuring never before published interviews, artwork and photographs of artists in their studios. Featured artists include: Esao Andrews, Sean Cheetham, Natalia Fabia, Alex Gross, James Jean, Josh Keyes, Mario Martinez, Jeff McMillan, Greg Simkins, Nathan Spoor, Nicola Verlato, Eric White, Aron Wiesenfeld and Martin Wittfooth.
Tools: InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop
Exhibition signage featuring Martin Wittfooth, work in progress by Natalia Fabia, After Dark invitation and celebrations
Exterior exhibit signage featuring Martin Wittfooth, painting by Greg Craola Simkins, LBMA After Dark online invite graphic.
Exhibition opening statement by Nathan Spoor, artwork installation view of Martin Wittfooth painting, Artist Panel Discussion announcement.
Masterworks book cover first draft, dust jacket first draft.
Masterworks exhibition book covers, round two, featuring James Jean (left), Aron Wiesenfeld (center), Mars-1 / Mario Martinez (right).
Book interior layouts, final designs.
Masterworks exhibition opening featuring installation views of paintings by Nicola Verlato (left) and Josh Keyes (right).
Masterworks exhibition opening featuring installation view of artwork by Nathan Spoor.
Masterworks exhibition opening featuring installation views of paintings by Aron Wiesenfeld (left) and James Jean (right).