As You Are
September 21 — October 21, 2023
"As You Are" invites viewers to explore the human experience through the eyes and hands of three young emerging artists. With a rich palette of oil paintings and colored pencil drawings, the collection of portraits bears witness to the resilience that emerges from embracing authenticity and self-acceptance. The works delve into generational pressures, grapple with shame and imposter syndrome, and celebrate imperfections. The hyperrealistic paintings within this exhibition serve as a striking reflection of the profound interplay between artistic technique and the unvarnished reality of internal truths. Through meticulous attention to detail, these artworks capture the essence of their subjects with an uncanny resemblance to real life. This level of precision mirrors the raw honesty required to confront and acknowledge one's internal struggles and truths. Join us on this journey as we celebrate the struggle and power of being unapologetically "As You Are."
About the Artists
-
David Grajeda Gonzalez
(he/him), a Mexican-American multidisciplinary artist based in Denver, CO, focuses on traditional and digital mediums in his ongoing quest to capture the human essence through surrealism, portraiture, and dreamscapes. He embarked on his artistic journey in 2020 with PlatteForum's ArtLab internship as he began to explore themes of identity. He then participated in the CVA's Art + Action Lab internship, showcased his animation at both Denver Digerati's Supernova and Meow Wolf, and presented a responsive animation live at the Denver Art Museum's April Untitled event (2022-2023). Additionally, he created two murals at DSST: CVHS during his junior/senior years of High School (2021-2023). Currently, David attends the University of Denver, pursuing a certificate in Emergent Digital Practices to combine his passions for technological advances and fine arts while working as a Studio Assistant at PlatteForum.
-
Leilani Abeyta
(she/her) is a 22 year old Latinx artist born and based in Denver, CO. She primarily works as an oil painter and portrait artist with a specialization in photorealism and hyperrealism. With backgrounds in painting, drawing, 3D painting and sculpture, digital painting and more, she uses a wide array of tools and materials to create detailed portraiture and custom commission work for clients. Leilani attended the Maryland Institute College of Art on full tuition scholarship for her work and studied as a painting major before returning to Colorado. She is an alumni of Platteforum’s ArtLab Intern class of 2018, participating in and curating several exhibitions before returning in 2020 to teach digital animation, then again in 2021, rejoining Platteforum’s Board of Directors in the Emerging Artist Voice Board Member position. Leilani works to capture light, detail, and color in unique and intricate ways throughout her paintings, using renaissance inspired painting techniques with modern elements to create a distinct style that always challenges her to improve.
-
Shadae Hunt
(she/her) is an artist living in Denver, Colorado. Her mediums of choice include traditional oils as well as acrylic paints. Throughout the years, Shadae has elevated her work into fine art after painting for four years. Throughout her journey, she has found herself gravitating towards Realism and Abstract works, painting about the things she sees and experiences daily. Shadae is an active member of her local art community, participating in live painting, open studio shows, and festivals. She recently finished a residency through the Denver Art District's "Emerging Artists Residency Program." In her time there, she spent three months creating in a studio space and networking with other artists and art enthusiasts. Shadae continues to show her appreciation of nature, life experiences, and color throughout her artworks and strives to connect with others.
