Esperanza Rosas, also known by her artist alias, Runsy, is a Chicago-based multimedia artist best known for creating detailed illustrations that recontexualizes pop cultural motifs with her Mexican heritage. Opening today at FRANCHISE gallery in Los Angeles is a new solo exhibition entitled Plata o Plomo.
Named after the popular phrase used in the hit Netflix series, Narcos, the show is a form of self-exploration, where the artist is reverting back to introducing herself by her first name. “Runsy is Esperanza, in a dualistic existence, arriving at what it means to be a Mexican artist from South Side Chicago with a propensity for self exploration,†wrote a release by the gallery. “This presentation of, ‘all things that make up who I am,’ is equally meditative and robust. Each intricate lead etching is as delicate as it is striking, much like the artist herself.â€
From faded images of El Chapo to weathered building walls, close-ups of leather jewel-encrusted boots to a meditative portrait of Michael Jordan, the exhibition provides a semiotic look into the signs and symbols that orbit Esperanza’s life. Plata o Plomo opens today and will run through March 18. For those in the LA area, there will be a special kick-off party tomorrow, February 18, from 5 to 9pm PT.
Elsewhere, Cleon Peterson presents Under the Sun, the Moon, and the Stars at Kaikai Kiki Gallery.
FRANCHISE
977 Chung King Rd
Los Angeles, CA 90012
