Yarek Godfrey will present eighteen oil-on-canvas paintings specifically created for the Fine Arts Building in Downtown Los Angeles. Exploring ideas of existence, purpose and survival the artist concludes:

It’s only because of a single gigantic piece of rock sailing through the dark space and hitting earth 65 millions years ago that we had an opportunity to emerge as mammals and invade our planet. Despite our fragile make-up and weakness of character, we still somehow exist 2 million years later. The dinosaurs ruled this planet for 150 million years but nature is neither compassionate nor empathetic. Much like a shark or tiger chasing their prey, feelings become afterthoughts when dealing in matters of survival. Are we predators or prey? Are we killers or victims?

All was natural in the beginning but as the first humans spread through the planet, conscience and pride created conflict. In order to find an excuse for their acts, people found the concept of god(s) and other “divine” forces which is comprehensive though non-existent. This doesn’t matter, as we know our weak spirit needs a special boost from he who resides as far away as possible but manifests his presence immediately in case of problems.

Voila, it’s very simple and smart. Now we can kill and torture with assurance that god(s) will forgive us… “Gott mit Uns,” “In God we trust,” “Insha’Allah.”

When reading inscriptions on graves we have an impression that only good people die. This is so cool because in life we have to give as much as we can so that we do not allow death to take something.  Love? Oh, yes…! So powerful is the feeling and a common emotion to humans and animals (same source…). “All we need is love”…remember?

I’ve found a picture of a warning panel sign from Berlin:

“IS THERE LIFE AFTER DEATH – TRESPASS HERE AND FIND OUT”

The Fine Art Building is located at 811 W. 7th St., Los Angeles.