For a self-proclaimed newbie gallerist, Randall Kallinen, a local civil rights attorney, isn't messing around with this weekend's grand opening of Kallinen Contemporary.
Along with showcasing the work of more than 20 artists in a space that's fall-on-the-floor beautiful, Daniel Johnston -- yes, "the Daniel Johnston," Kallinen tells Art Attack -- will be signing copies of his Space Ducks comic book and performing a short concert.
"I've always been interested in art. I think it's a good mechanism and vehicle for social change, and those are the main reasons that I opened this gallery," says Kallinen about an endeavor that's located in the same circa 1941 building (at 511 Broadway) as his law offices. The main 2,400-square-foot gallery boasts a stunning 23-foot wood arch ceiling.
Three years ago, Kallinen started creating large mixed-media pieces with acrylic, glitter and polyurethane. Some of his works will be displayed in the "Space Zombie Mayan Apocalyptic Human Sacrifice Uplift Mofo Party Plan Spring Break 2012" show that will also feature a gas-can sculpture by Amerimou$, street art by Dose, and Gonzo247 painting an eight-by-ten-foot aerosol mural on the side of building.
Kallinen Contemporary, 511 Broadway, has its grand opening from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 30, and will feature music by Daniel Johnston. The festivities continue from 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 31, during an artists' reception. Admission to both events is free. For more information, call 713-320-3785.