805, ‘A Journey Into the Black and White’ exhibit runs May 4 – 26
–805 recently announced the upcoming unveiling of, “A Journey into the Black & White” a photography and art exhibit that will run from May 4 through May 26 at Studios on The Park in downtown Paso Robles.
A Journey into the Black & White explores the original imagery that drives Firestone Walker’s 805 brand while illuminating the craftspeople and subcultures of the Central Coast, California and beyond.
“All of our photography and art comes from a place of intention – to capture the energy of our region,” said 805 Director Troy Powell. “We have worked with a diverse and talented array of photographers and artists over the years, and their collected works will be on display for the first time ever.”
Exhibit kickoff happening on May 4
The exhibit kicks off on May 4 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with an open house evening of “A Journey into the Black & White,” featuring giveaways, happy hour offerings and live local music by Pancho and The Wizards and Wild The Coyote. Hot rods and custom cars will take over Pine Street in front of the studios.
Featured photographers and artists will include Russ Pope, Colin Nearman, David Bond, Gary Copeland, Milo, Joseph Yee, Juan and Jesus Espinoza and others—most of whom will be on hand to share their ideas, experiences and antics in the world of 805.
The art of the journey
The title of the exhibit is a nod to 805’s signature black and white motif. However, the exhibit will not be entirely colorless. Guests will first be greeted with original 805 artwork by artists that inspired the journey into the black and white—some in color—before continuing into the photography wing. The art encompasses the world of 805—hand-drawn art, hand-shaped surfboards, custom motorcycles and gas tanks and other forms of displayed art.
The art of 805 is not rooted in the modern digital era, but rather in the tactile mixed media of abstract / fine art and a world of classic surf, skate and automotive cultures.
Under Powell’s guidance, much of 805’s imagery begins with basic and refined photography, pen-and-ink sketches or paintings that undergo numerous iterations before going public. While this imagery is digitally rendered in its final form, it retains the textures and imperfections of tactile hand-drawn art.
“This is a subtle but essential distinction behind everything we do,” Powell said. “It doesn’t matter if you can put your finger on it, as long as it’s real. That’s the Central Coast in a pure form—it’s ‘real’ and that message broadcasts out. As 805 expanded beyond our humble upbringings, we connected with so many others that were cut from the same cloth.”
Studios on The Park is located at 1130 Pine Street in downtown Paso Robles.
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