Ed Trask is back in May at Glave Kocen Gallery. Things kick off tonight with an opening reception for “Transitory” New Work by Ed Trask. As one of RVA’s most celebrated artists, Trask is known for pushing our little city by the river forward. In the mid 80s he made a name for himself on the punk scene as a drummer for bands like AVAIL, Corntooth, and Kepone. When he wasn’t performing, Trask turned Richmond (and many other cities he visited around the world) into his canvas as he painted directly on dilapidated buildings. Though Richmond is today flush with murals, back then large public displays of art took on a bit more of an outlaw vibe with Trask often leading the charge. Today, his work can be found in permanent collections at the VMFA, Gap, Capital One, Fortune Magazine, and more. And as the co-founder of RVA Street Art Festival, he has made it a point to support arts education, fellow artists, and good causes along the way. 

Despite the accomplishments, Trask knows all of life is transitory. There are fleeting moments of change, love, light, and color. In his latest work you’ll find some of your favorite Richmond spots in flux – such as a flooded Pipeline, fog rolling over the James River, a storm creeping on the old Skateland on Hull Street, Belle Isle ruins, a eulogy to Fulton Gas Works, and a Red Maple in full bloom at Maymont, just to name a few. And there are unlikely surfaces too, such as dramatic works painted on surfboards (yes, actual surfboards that can be used in the water!) and several skateboard decks etched by Richmond laser artist Big Secret. Take a moment, pause, and consider that everything is transitory. We must live accordingly.