jitle you, jitle me, jitle.us

Last night was the opening of everything else at the Franklin Parrasch Gallery.  It was one of those enjoyable openings because it was behind a door then up an elevator then behind another door, making it unknown to the person walking by.  So basically the people in there were actually people that wanted to be there and not just passerbies looking for free booze.  In open discretion, I really went for one reason, two pieces, one man: KAWS.  I’ve been a fan for a while, but a few years ago when Stussy was celebrating their 25th Anniversary they did a special one off screening in Los Angeles where they interviewed a handfull of artists that did shirts for the series.  It was a very special event, and they did a great job really humanizing and protraying some great qualities to some people who you normally only know for a tag on a street corner or your favorite graphic tee.  After seeing his segment I went from fan to super fan.

Last night everything else featured two of KAWS’ pieces, both of which I have never seen in person.

His 4 foot companion:

And an actual canvas piece (not a print or graffiti)

Both really blew me away.  I was so thankful to see them in person, now trying to convince myself the 3K for my own companion would have totally been worth it.  As I was finishing my last free beer with J, I looked over her shoulder and froze!  KAWS was in the building.  I absolutely had to briefly speak with him.  Saying how much I appreciate his art to KAWS himself and getting to shake the hand of a man that has shaken up so much of the New York street scene was an honor.

If your ever running around 5th and 57th and want a break from the standard shit show of the area, stop into the gallery and just try not to fall in love with the companion.  I dare you!