Soy Loco Por Tí, America!

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30 x 30 x 2.5 in.

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Acrylic, ink, cotton rag mat, newspaper, resin on wood panel

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From the collection of Dorian Berger

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"Soy loco por tí, America," takes its name from the classic tropicalia tune written by Brazilian singer/songwriter Caetano Veloso. It features that most ubiquitous of LA streetscape features, the strip mall sign.

In so many ways, this kind of sign provides a perfect visual summary of the city: Many businesses run by people from places near and far, stacked next to and on top of each other, yet still very much occupying each their own space, in their well-defined little boxes.

This composition reflects the confederation of Balkanized neighborhoods, towns, and cities that make up greater Los Angeles, all united under this illuminated flag representing the United States of Convenience. We want it all here, and so we have it--strip mall after strip mall of little United Nations, full of dreams and of dreams deferred. It's at once common and distinguishing, transactional and aspirational, ugly and--yes--even beautiful.