On Fri., Mar. 7, Stay Gallery curated their latest exhibit, Hyperpresent, presented by local artist David Layton. The exhibit featured three of Layton’s series: arcade, cinema, and coaster. The images displayed were vivid, yet distorted –the focus of his “hyperpresent” art.

“Hyperpresent,” a term coined by Layton, is “…the combination of the literal presence of reality, coupled with increasing technology, indicative of the present society.” Layton’s paintings were laid out in fluorescent colors – the arcade series dawned in blues, and its counterpart coaster series in reds. They are focused primarily on snippets of the
technological aspects of whatever is being portrayed; for example, the arcade series focuses on the neon signs of cheap arcade games and the cinema series peaks at the movie screen.

“We are aware of this life instant by instant,” Layton said, “and in this life, we are surrounded by technology – that is what I try to capture in my artwork.”

On opening day, the compact gallery held around 10 people, analyzing Layton’s work. Upon arrival, the upcoming artist discussed the themes of his art with curious spectators. Most, if not all, people viewing the gallery were those active in Downey’s local art scene. Layton is a mere part of this community, and the attendees were comprised of his fellow community members supporting him, says executive director Valentin Flores.

“Most of the people who attend opening days are part of the local art scene,” Flores said. “It’s a really good way to get involved with it.”

“As per usual, this is another wall-hanging installment in Stay Gallery. Typically, local artists present their art of this medium at the gallery on Downey Ave,” says creative director Gabriel Enamorado, “serving to tie art and culture into Downtown Downey.”

“Our last exhibit focused on a large-scaled medium but, as for this exhibit, this is what we’re used to,” Enamorado said, “art on canvas.”

Layton’s work was previously on display at the gallery last year, and surely, this is not the last of his work to be seen around the city. Art galleries such as Stay continue to support local artists in the community.