CULVER CITY, CA.-D.E.N. Contemporary Art will present Alexander Couwenberg’s new paintings exhibited for the first time alongside recent monotypes, in “Cosmetically, Aesthetically, Unregrettably” on view from July 21 through August 25. Couwenberg’s work is inspired by subculture elements indigenous to the southern California environment in which he was born and raised, including mid-century design, car culture, skateboards, and surfboards.

In the new series of paintings, Couwenberg continues to push the compositions and techniques employed in the last decade, and now layers and integrates them onto a fresh, raw background of exposed natural wood grain. Opaque coatings of polished acrylic paint intermittently give way to reveal other painterly, sanded down surfaces. Curvilinear and architectonic shapes from rustic hues to ebullient colors repeatedly overlap. Pinstriped lines mimic forms or playfully weave in and out of multiple layers as if loosely delineating boundaries. Juxtaposing styles in shape, texture, color and space, Couwenberg ultimately harnesses them all into harmonious results, reflecting the visual culture of southern California that is both varied and dynamic.

Couwenberg received his B.F.A. degree from Art Center College of Design and in 1997 earned his M.F.A. from Claremont Graduate University. His work has been featured in several solo exhibitions throughout California. His paintings are included in numerous private, public, and corporate collections nationwide. This is the artist’s first solo exhibition with d.e.n. contemporary art.

A reception for the artist will be held on Saturday, July 21 from 5 to 8 pm. The exhibition will be on view until August 25, and the gallery will close from August 26 to September 7.