In the vibrant art scene of Los Angeles, Various Small Fires (VSF) stands out as a unique gallery that champions diversity and innovation. Founded by Esther Kim Varet in 2012, VSF has quickly become a significant player in the art world, with locations not only in Los Angeles but also in Dallas, Texas, and Seoul, South Korea.
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ContactThe Vision Behind Various Small Fires
Esther Kim Varet’s vision for Various Small Fires Gallery Los Angeles was born out of a series of conversations with artists and curators in her Venice Beach kitchen. The gallery officially opened in 2015 with a mission to provide a platform for artists addressing critical social, political, and environmental issues. VSF is committed to showing no bias against age, medium, or market viability, allowing for a diverse range of artistic expressions.
A Space for Innovative Exhibitions
Various Small Fires Gallery Los Angeles is known for its dynamic and thought-provoking exhibitions. The gallery features a unique sound corridor for audio art and a dedicated outdoor space for large-scale sculptures and installations. Recent exhibitions have included works by artists like Kelly Wall, whose cheeky sculptural practice engages with themes of fantasy and nostalgia, and Wendy Park, who explores augmented reality in her paintings.
Expanding Horizons with New Locations and Global Reach
Since its inception, Various Small Fires has expanded its reach with new locations in Seoul and Dallas. The Seoul gallery opened in 2019 in the Hannam neighborhood, while the Dallas location was established in 2022. This expansion reflects VSF’s commitment to supporting artists on an international scale and providing a platform for diverse voices across different regions.
The Ethos of Various Small Fires
At the heart of Various Small Fires Gallery Los Angeles is a commitment to fostering a collaborative and less hierarchical art scene. The gallery’s ethos is rooted in creating a supportive environment where artists can exercise their voices on pressing global issues. This approach has attracted a wide range of artists, from emerging talents to established names, who are united by their desire to make meaningful contributions to the art world.
Engaging with the Los Angeles Art Scene
Located in Hollywood, VSF is part of a vibrant community of galleries and cultural institutions. The gallery’s central location makes it an ideal destination for art lovers exploring Los Angeles. With neighbors like Regen Projects, Michael Kohn, and Jeffrey Deitch, VSF is situated in a hub of creativity and artistic exchange.
A Commitment to Emerging Artists
Various Small Fires Gallery Los Angeles is dedicated to supporting emerging artists and providing them with opportunities to showcase their work. Esther Kim Varet is particularly excited about artists like Samantha Bittman, whose textile-based works were recently featured in LACMA’s “Woven Histories” exhibition. By offering solo exhibitions and international exposure, VSF plays a crucial role in nurturing new talent.
Various Small Fires Gallery Los Angeles continues to be a dynamic force in the contemporary art world, offering a platform for innovative and diverse artistic expressions. With its commitment to addressing critical issues and supporting emerging artists, VSF remains a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the future of art.
Citations: [1] https://www.vsf.la [2] https://www.artsy.net/partner/various-small-fires [3] https://docent-art.com/galleries/various-small-fires [4] https://www.vsf.la/exhibitions/162-kelly-wall-time-after-time/overview/ [5] https://www.vsf.la/exhibitions/ [6] https://www.frieze.com/article/los-angeles-according-esther-kim-various-small-fires