Pop Surrealism in Belltown

Walking through an art gallery as opposed to a museum, the differences seen are in the pieces of art that hang off the walls; works you’ve never seen or heard of before. They have not made it into any art history books yet, and many of the times the artist behind the art is an unknown name to the public; a name that is only noticed after you stare at the art, eyes drifting towards the little plaque that is stamped next to the work portraying the title and the artists name.

The great thing about spending the day in an art gallery is the unique experience that your eyes receive. Seeing new works that you have no preconceived notions about, for you know nothing of the work before walking through the art gallery doors; (well most of the time).

So, on that thought, of the attractiveness of art galleries, it was not a forceful thought when deciding to discuss the art galleries of Belltown.

Belltown, though somewhat small, has, unsurprisingly, a great deal of art galleries. Therefore, the next few entries of mine will feature one new art gallery found on the urban streets of Belltown.

Today’s spotlight rests upon the Belltown’s Roq La Rue, an art gallery opened since 1998. Their focus is Lowbrow/Pop Surrealism and they exhibit established artists as well as aiding to the discovery of emerging artists.

The newest exhibit at Roq La Rue is a large, group show, entitled “A Cabinet Of Natural Curiosities”. Each artist was asked to create works relating to animals.

“The mysterious links we have with animals are integral part of our psychological make up. As humans we treasure them, fetishize them, turn them into symbols, anthropomorphize them, and at the same time inflict terrible cruelty upon them” (Roq La Rue).

That was a segment taken from the Roq La Rue’s description of “A Cabinet of Natural Curiosities”.







Many already know what Pop Surrealism art is and have figured out whether it is art they enjoy seeing, but for those of you who have not yet formed an opinion around Pop Surrealism, Roq La Rue is the place to begin your journey through an art movement with origins in the underground commix world, punk music, and hot-rod street culture. Roq La Rue fits perfectly into the urban uniquness that is Belltown.

Roq La Rue address:
2312 2nd Ave
Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 347-8977

Hours:
Sun – Tues: Closed
Weds/Thurs: 1-6pm
Friday: 1-7pm
Saturday: 1-6pm