Spotlight on Necrosurrealist Artist David Van Gough

"Poor Worm, Though Art Infected" dark art by David Van Gough
“Poor Worm, Though Art Infected”
48″ x 36″ – Oil on canvas (2014)

Never has death appeared more alive than when gazing at the works of David Van Gough. He is a necrosurrealist artist whose pieces explore themes of decay, esotericism, religion, the shadow self and mortality. His paintings lay bare the morbid terrain he treads as he creates, beckoning the onlooker to join him.

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9 Dark Art Galleries in Los Angeles You Need to Visit

Dark art on display at Dark Art Emporium in Long Beach, California

Before the pandemic hit, I could often be found taking in the latest dark art exhibits happening local to me. It’s no surprise that in-person art events largely ceased over the past year and a half, so it’s been a while since I’ve set foot in a gallery. Now with many Covid-19 restrictions lifting in the City of Angels, spaces are reopening their doors, welcoming patrons to admire the macabre works of gifted artists up close. For those whose artistic tastes lean towards the grotesque, bizarre and otherworldly, then the following dark art galleries in Los Angeles, California, will tickle your fancy. I’ve paid a visit to most of these establishments and look forward to returning soon to cover future art shows. Here is a selection of L.A. dark art galleries you need to visit if you find yourself in the area!

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The Dark Art Emporium Debuts Meimaro Solo Exhibition “Devotion Bound”

Meimaro "Devotion Bound" Exhibiton

Japanese artist Meimaro returns to The Dark Art Emporium, this time for her first U.S. solo exhibition “Devotion Bound.” I had the opportunity to see her work in the group art show “Dakuato” in 2019 and was completely taken in by her creations. What you’ll find is plenty of blood, horror and grotesque flesh. Continue reading “The Dark Art Emporium Debuts Meimaro Solo Exhibition “Devotion Bound””

Steven Johnson Leyba’s “FIRE” Exhibit & Ritual at The Dark Art Emporium

Steven Johnson Leyba's FIRE art exhibit
Steven Johnson Leyba’s FIRE art exhibit

He was ordained as a reverend into the Church of Satan by Anton Szandor LaVey in 1992, has placed curses on politicians and corporations, and caused media mayhem when, during his Apache Whiskey Rite as a political protest, he allowed himself to be anally penetrated by a woman wearing a harness with a bottle of Jack Daniel’s strapped to it. Continue reading “Steven Johnson Leyba’s “FIRE” Exhibit & Ritual at The Dark Art Emporium”

The Dark Art Emporium Presents “Angel Dust”

From left to right: "Fields" and "Fed The Lions II " by Iva Troj
From left to right: “Fields” and “Fed The Lions II ” by Iva Troj

This past weekend, The Dark Art Emporium in Long Beach, California, introduced its latest exhibit, “Angel Dust,” featuring Rachael Bridge, Iva Troj and Meagan “Magpie” Rodgers. Each artist created a series of new pieces that collectively evoke a realm of morbid enchantment. Continue reading “The Dark Art Emporium Presents “Angel Dust””

Vincent Castiglia’s Blood Sacrifice

Vincent Castiglia Autopsy of the Soul
Vincent Castiglia’s “Autopsy of the Soul” at The Dark Art Emporium

When we think of putting one’s ‘blood, sweat and tears’ into something, it’s usually intended figuratively. Vincent Castiglia, though, takes the phrase to an entirely literal and ethereal level. Creating pieces that draw from his own blood, he gives life to the subjects he imagines. They are no longer renderings on paper, but beings that possess and manifest a human lifeforce.

The Dark Art Emporium in Long Beach, California, is offering the public a rare opportunity to see Castiglia’s art up close. Recently, the gallery held an opening reception for the exhibit titled “Autopsy of the Soul” & Retrospective, which features more than 20 works. To lay eyes on the pieces was, like the art, surreal. Continue reading “Vincent Castiglia’s Blood Sacrifice”

The Dark Art Emporium Presents “Prone to Exaggeration”

"Prone to Exaggeration" at The Dark Art Emporium
“Prone to Exaggeration” at The Dark Art Emporium

In the gallery’s latest exhibit, The Dark Art Emporium presents the works of three artists – Rick “Dienzo” Blanco, Bob Doucette and Richard J. Frost. “Prone to Exaggeration” is an impressive collection of paintings that gives insight into the dark imaginings of each of its creators.
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The Dark Art Emporium Presents “Dakuato” & “12 Inches of Wood”

“Loveless” by Meimaro

“Dakuato” is the newest exhibition at The Dark Art Emporium in Long Beach, California, presenting the work of three artists hailing from Japan — Meimaro, Ren Hoshi and Niku. Also on display is “12 Inches of Wood,” a collection of provocative erotic art. Read on for a closer look at the artists and their intriguing and macabre creations. Continue reading “The Dark Art Emporium Presents “Dakuato” & “12 Inches of Wood””

The Dark Art Emporium Presents D.W. Frydendall’s “Haunted Mansion”

"Madame Leota" and "Watching Busts" paintings by D.W. Frydendall
“Madame Leota” and “Watching Busts” paintings by D.W. Frydendall

The Dark Art Emporium, a fine art and oddities shop in Long Beach, California, recently debuted the latest uncanny collection by artist D.W. Frydendall — “Haunted Mansion.” It commemorates the upcoming 50th anniversary of the iconic Disneyland attraction. I stopped in opening night and captured photos of the exhibition and more. Have a look! Continue reading “The Dark Art Emporium Presents D.W. Frydendall’s “Haunted Mansion””