An early Friday afternoon, I called albertz benda L.A. to confirm that the Saj Issa show was still up. A friendly voice on the other end, a young man named Charles, confirmed that it was the last day to see the work at the gallery. He followed by giving helpful driving directions and parking instructions and welcomed me to come by.

I am trying to remember how I first came across Saj Issa’s work. I do recollect that I was instantly a fan. Now Issa is one of my favorite artists. A couple of weeks prior to this WeHo rendezvous I drove to Venice to see Issa’s first gallery solo exhibition at Le Maximum. I was enthralled by her tile work alongside her Convenience Store series. At that moment I knew I had to see her show at albertz benda before it was gone. Although I have not ventured into as many art happenings during the pandemic, I have remained highly motivated to see the work that captivates me.

It was quite the journey from the Eastside to the Chateau Marmont. Once we approached the legendary hotel, I knew we were but a minute away from the gallery. It was my first visit to the space so I hadn’t anticipated that I would be driving to a residential property instead of a typical street-level business. This made for a far more exciting arrival. The gorgeous gallery is located on Marmont Lane, a hop, skip, and a jump from the Chateau. Charles met us at the front door smiling and welcomed us into the space. I was instantly taken aback by its beauty.

albertz benda L.A. is a luxuriously minimal space that is airy and swimming in natural light. The home and gallery are tucked away on a winding hill, surrounded by an abundance of trees whose leaves compose a soothing song when the wind passes through them. Its balcony overlooks the city and the temperature up here is far cooler than down on Sunset.

Charles offered us a tour. We eagerly accepted. The first stop was to see the work of Saj Issa. I was so excited to share this moment with my husband, Saif, who comes from a country abundant in beautiful tiles. The production and appreciation of tile craftsmanship are one of the many things our cultures (Mexican + Tunisian) have in common. Although I found the placement of Issa’s work peculiar - located inside a bathroom - the quality of the work immediately blocked out these thoughts. Her piece entitled Al-A'la/The Most High, (2022) was my favorite in the show but I loved them all, especially Americana Hammam #2, (2022). Each artwork had already been sold which meant I couldn’t even fantasize about taking one home.

We continued to explore the space, enjoying the privacy of having the gallery all to ourselves. I was blown away by a collection of Dino Dining Chairs created by artist Daniel Arsham through the use of 3D printing. I had not realized the level of sophistication capable of this printing process. Across from these beauties were two ceramic pieces by artist Jake Clark, which I found incredibly charming. And although not a fan of Kaws, I enjoyed the playfulness of his Elmo Chair that he created alongside Brazilian brothers Fernando and Humberto Campana, also known as Estudio Campana. I love that Serena Williams has one in her collection.

Location

albertz benda L.A.
8260 Marmont Lane
Los Angeles, CA 90069
Open by Appointment: marmont@albertzbenda.com

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