Heavy Metal Magazine Relaunches With a Special Art Show at Copro Gallery

Since 1977, Heavy Metal Magazine has been catering to fans of fantasy, sci-fi and horror. The illustrations and narratives found within its pages exude surrealism and transport audiences to realms hidden in other dimensions. For decades, the publication has garnered a reputation for its otherworldly and provocative imagery. It’s now under new management, so to welcome another era and celebrate its foray into fresh frontiers, a relaunch party was hosted at Copro Gallery in Santa Monica, CA.

The special event featured a group art show that included artwork inspired by Heavy Metal Magazine. Several talented artists contributed, including Adam McCarthy, Brian Viveros, Chet Zar, Chloe Trujillo, Dan Quintana, Dave Navarro, Dave Shuten, David Stoupakis, Dos Diablos, Frank Forte, Karikatura, Lizz Lopez, Olivia, Richard Scott Lynch, Stephanie Inagaki, and others. Many of the artists also made appearances and did signings.

The opening night of this exhibit was my formal introduction to the world of Heavy Metal Magazine. I had heard of the publication but had yet to immerse myself in it. The magazine had first come to my attention when The Boulet Brothers made the cover for the November 2021 issue. Suffice it to say, I couldn’t be more thrilled that this event exposed me to the wonders of Heavy Metal.

First, I have to say that Copro Gallery puts on the most amazing art shows, which have introduced me to tons of artists. This event was no exception. Stepping inside the rooms of the gallery made me feel as if I was on another planet. The walls were adorned with countless pieces that popped with exuberant colors and characters. In the main space, there was a huge display with two female wood cut-outs called “Devil Girl” and “Space Girl” by artist Coop. It was a killer photo op.

There were certain works I found myself especially drawn to. One was “After Grace” by David Stoupakis. It showcased a demonic figure with its head buried in a beautiful ethereal creature. The shades of crimson were spellbinding. “Narcissisdian” by Richard Scott Lynch Art was another. I loved the intricate detail and the split it highlighted between a woman’s visage and a skull.

“Year of the Tiger” by Angie Jones had a neat interactive feature. There was a QR code guests could scan. Once you clicked on the link, you were supposed to run your phone over the artwork. When I did, skulls crystallized on the painting. I really enjoyed that innovative element.  

All the artwork was impressive and that is just a small portion of what I saw. I was blown away by the entire collection. The exhibit had a great turnout too. Tons of people came out to support the relaunch. There were issues of the magazine on sale, so to complete my initiation into the Heavy Metal universe, I had to buy one. I also snagged a copy of Vampire Macabre by Asylum Press.

It’s going to be amazing to see what Heavy Metal Magazine has in store as it embarks on a new chapter. The exhibit will be on display through August 30^th and admission to Copro Gallery is free.

Where to Stalk

Heavy Metal Magazine

Copro Gallery