Erik Otsea's Ceramic Sculptures at Alto Beta Gallery
At Alto Beta Gallery in Altadena, California, Erik Otsea showcases his exhibition titled 'Clever Animals & Static,' featuring a collection of ceramic sculptures reminiscent of industrial machinery and Soviet brutalist design. These pieces, defined by their geometric shapes and matte finishes in muted blacks, whites, and pastel accents, evoke a sense of lost industrial hope. Complementing the sculptures, twenty-five small black and white panels from thirty-five years ago are displayed in a compact grid on the back wall, reflecting Otsea's enduring artistic themes. Curated by Brad Eberhard, this exhibition is part of the gallery's new programming following its relocation after the Altadena fire. It is open from April 19 to May 17, 2026, at 2359 Lincoln Avenue, Altadena, CA 91001, on Sundays from 12 to 5 and by appointment. Additionally, Nancy Jackson's detailed cut-paper artwork is featured in the Project Area.
Key facts
- Erik Otsea's exhibition 'Clever Animals & Static' is on view at Alto Beta Gallery in Altadena, California.
- The show features tabletop ceramic sculptures with industrial shapes and matte surfaces.
- The sculptures reference Soviet brutalist architecture and futuristic inventions.
- Twenty-five small black and white painted panels from 35 years ago are displayed in a grid.
- The panels provide context for the sculptures and relate to Otsea's ongoing themes.
- The exhibition is curated by Brad Eberhard.
- Alto Beta Gallery moved to a new location after its original space was lost to the Altadena fire.
- The exhibition runs from April 19 to May 17, 2026.
- The gallery is located at 2359 Lincoln Avenue, Altadena, CA 91001.
- The Project Area features cut-paper work by Nancy Jackson.
Entities
Artists
- Erik Otsea
- Arlene Shechet
- Joel Shapiro
- Nancy Jackson
Institutions
- Alto Beta Gallery
Locations
- Altadena
- California
- United States