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Glimpses of Cody Lusby, Our Mustache Wearing Friend
- by Lauren Lloyd/Special to LAist
A mysterious mustachioed man has been spotted at several art events in both Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Is this man a threat? Nay. He is ‘Mustachio,’ AKA Cody Lusby, and his knack for mixing street art and fine art is uniquely his own evolution. If asked when he began growing his iconic 'stache, he will tell you, “I was born with it.”
You can currently catch Lusby’s work at the Curbside Gallery in Santa Ana.Modern Romance and the Illusive Dream is the charming title of his exhibition. All pieces are brand new and include 11 paintings, one sculpture and 24 stencils. These are smaller, more affordable versions of his main paintings. Existing as separate collections, both series are joined together by a plastic “membrane” which guides you from his collection d’amour into his multimedium dream. Refer to the gallery’s site for a full description of his lively account.
Modern Romance showcases his most evolved work. “Collage and painting have meshed into one,” he says. Spending countless hours in his Long Beach studio, he continues his artistic progression. Pulling from his art supply store experience, Lusby experiments with a range of mediums. His collage techniques are incredible, building layers of images and elements, some being pages of old books, then carving his way through the levels and painting with acrylics. The bases of his canvases are sturdy found objects that function as panels, such as tabletops and street signs.
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Parliament cigarette packs collected by Lusby during his smoking phase compose all works of Illusive Dream. He never intended to remain a smoker, and after the sperm whale demanded he quit, he obeyed two years later. The dream remains “crazy vivid” in his mind.
If you missed the opening show on Jan. 22, that is quite unfortunate. Complete with a kissing booth to accommodate the romantic theme, the event was jam-packed, proof that Lusby draws a crowd. Many prints and stencils sold during the opening, though some are still available. Interested parties are welcome to schedule a private viewing by contacting Craig at Curbside.
On Feb. 12 from 6pm-10pm, Laguna Art Museum is hosting a love-themed auction to coincide with the anticipated (or dreaded) Valentine’s Day. Lusby’s Modern Romance #1 was selected along with works from 100 other local artists. Proceeds will benefit the museum’s education and exhibition programs.
Also on Feb. 12 from 7pm-11pm, is the opening of Michael White’s circus art group show, Behind the Striped Curtain atRothick Art Haus in Anaheim. Lusby’s piece is one of the few included that support White’s bazaar theme. Seven years in the making, Lusby’s painting displays a woman as the target, mounted to a spinning contraption, courtesy of Lusby, complete with throwing knives. As with most of his work, the story behind this destined creation is quite entertaining.
Viewing his artistry up, close and personal is an absolute must. One tip - look for his signature on his pieces. Each series comes stamped with an exclusive mustache, carved by the man himself.
Curbside Gallery
928 E. Santa Ana Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Opening receptions: 7 pm-10 pm
Otherwise, by appointment only
Rothick Art Haus
170 S. Harbor Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92805
Opening receptions: 7 pm-11 pm
Open Sat. & Sun., 12 pm-5 pm
307 Cliff Dr.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Open daily, 11 am-5 pm
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