Dean Sameshima's 'Wonderland' photographs of LA sex clubs at Soft Opening
Dean Sameshima's 'Wonderland' series, shot between 1995 and 1997, captures the exteriors of sex clubs and bath houses in Silver Lake, Los Angeles. Presented by Soft Opening in London nearly 30 years later, the photographs show anonymous building façades that conceal erotic interiors. The images are framed with stark objectivity from across the road, highlighting hidden entrances and barriers. The series also includes cruising spots in Griffith Park and Harbour City Recreational Park in Lomita. Sameshima's work reflects on absence and loss, particularly in the context of the AIDS crisis and the precarity of queer spaces. The exhibition runs until 23 May 2026.
Key facts
- Dean Sameshima photographed exteriors of sex clubs and bath houses in Silver Lake, Los Angeles.
- The 'Wonderland' series was created between 1995 and 1997.
- The photographs are presented by Soft Opening in London.
- Images are framed from across the road at a medium distance with stark objectivity.
- The series includes cruising spots in Griffith Park and Harbour City Recreational Park in Lomita.
- The work reflects on absence and loss related to the AIDS crisis.
- The exhibition runs until 23 May 2026.
- The gallery space is divided by walls to highlight themes of impenetrability.
Entities
Artists
- Dean Sameshima
Institutions
- Soft Opening
Locations
- Los Angeles
- Silver Lake
- London
- Griffith Park
- Lomita
- Harbour City Recreational Park