DTLA LIFE MAG #3 | MARCH 2014 | Page 25

QATHRYN

BREHM

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Qathryn Brehm is one of Downtown ’ s original artist settlers , dating back to the 1980s , fearless and ahead of her time . In addition to being founding member of ‘ Vulva Video ’ she is also an accomplished muralist and has remained a key player in Downtown Art Scene as well as in the ongoing the feminist art movement in California .

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GDCA is proud to present selected highlights of Brehm ’ s library of work on the heels of the recent release of her book ‘“ Good Toys gone bad ” – a humorous photo discussion of social convention , sexual identity and intellectual evolution ’. This March GDCA is displaying selections from her “ Toy Series ”, “ Saints and Sinners ” and “ Girl Group Series ”. All of her playful and poignant mixed media examinations shine the light on female stereotypes , while her inherent wit and humor undermine the same , celebrating the strength and essence of femininity . Her heroines are clever , seductive , beautiful and empowered . One piece in particular , “ Three Generations of Women in Comics ” examines the treatment of women in comic strips from the 30 ’ s , the 50 ’ s and the 70 ’ s . As the critic and artist / art historian / muralist Christina Schlesinger said ,“…( Brehm ’ s ) constructions , montages , and collages are little stages for stories of women ’ s empowerment and history …”

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While much of this work was created several years back , it remains important today , as the feminist movement remains vital to any comprehensive social and cultural advancement . Change demands courage and ongoing truthful examination of oneself and others , and as Qathryn Brehm beautifully illustrates , a healthy measure of humor as well . " My desire to create means I never have to stop listening , engaging , observing or dreaming ." says Qathryn .

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To learn more about the artist please visit her website at qathryn . com and please come and observe , smile and dream along with us at GDCA on Spring Street at the corner of W . 6th Street , or call us at ( 323 ) 309-2875 .

! ! by PETRA WRIGHT GLORIA DELSON CONTEMPORARY ARTS

215 W 6th Street # 115 Entrance on Spring Street
Los Angeles , CA 90013 323 309 2875 www . gdcagallery . com