VOTM: What’s the most unusual experience you’ve had at an art show?
VARELA: A few years back I went to a Raymond Pettibon show inside of Shepard Fairey’s gallery in Los Angeles. This was also one of OFF’s more earlier shows. I was pumped to have gotten tickets to this show but sucked that I had to wait about an hour in the rain to actually get in. By this point, I was kinda over it and all I really cared about was the free PBR. I didn’t have any cash on me to tip the bartender so every time she would bring me a beer, I’d make this half looking fist into the jar so it looked like I was dropping cash – it worked for most of the night. The place was packed, it was ok, I’d made a little spot for myself between the bar and restroom, I couldn’t see any of the art but watching some of these characters walk in and out of the restroom was worth it. That’s where I would bump into Drew Barrymore, well not really bump into her, she was digging her pointy little shoulders into everyone, making her way to the restroom, I didn’t want to lose my spot so I held my ground. Wet, drunk and anxious to get the fuck out, I was now in the front of the gallery and just as we were about to head out, I hear the Ramones playing. Shepard Fairey was the DJ and there was a big dance circle forming that Drew had started – I had to stay, in hopes of catching one of those party moments she was known for more. She didn’t disappoint, like a drunk ballerina she danced all over the gallery, hugging, grinding and kissing on people. Up until then, free beer and cheese had been the highlights of the art shows I’d been to, and to he honest, most of the ones I go to now will never live up to that night with the drunken ballerina.
The Imperial Valley will always be home for 33 year old native David Varela. Born and raised in El Centro, David struggled academically as he trudged through the El Centro Elementary School District, but acknowledges the support he found in the Migrant program and the teachers that fostered his love for art. In 2000 he graduated from Southwest High School and with little hesitation sought higher education in the arts outside of El Centro. With much determination, family support and financial difficulties he earned a degree in Graphic Design, only to find himself traveling back home to a position at the Imperial Valley Press. After a few years of building experience, David seeked to expand his artistic abilities, leaving the Valley to work for both the L.A. Times and then Viejas Casino, before situating himself at the prestigious Sixteenfifty Creative Ad Agency in La Jolla where he currently works as a Graphic Designer. Having accomplished much of what he had set out to do for himself, David now looks to support and give back to his community back home. Along with Alex Tamayo, a childhood friend and native to the Valley, he founded the nonprofit organization Starts with Arts Foundation.
Since its inception in 2012, Starts with Arts has continued to raise awareness for Arts Education and the educational benefits the arts has in the classroom. David opened an art studio in El Centro, hosting free art workshops to teachers, kids and parents. Starts with Arts also continues to support and embrace local art talent and culture by participating and sponsoring year-around community events.
Check out David’s poster he created for the events at Book Show in Highland Park on Friday, June 12 at 7:30pm and at 3rdSpace on Saturday, June 13 at 7:30pm.