Local artist Andrew Salgado invited me out to his art opening at the Interurban Gallery, featuring the works of his series Boys' Night Out. Last night also happened to be Swarm 2008's focus on art galleries within Downtown and Gastown, and so after viewing his work and asking a few questions, we ventured around Gastown to view the talent this city has to offer.

Regina native and UBC Grad, Andrew Salgado has been featuring his work in exhibitions around the world since 2000. Venturing into large scale, oil canvases for his most current project, his work is beautifully detailed and experimental. With paintings of various pixelation, to words written strategically that make out a young woman's face, Salgado's show has been deemed "a must see".

Aside from his obvious talent that grabs a hold of you, the stories behind his paintings also add to its character. Such as the self portrait done after Salgado and his boyfriend were swarmed at The Pemberton Music Festival by a group of guys. Knocking out two of his front teeth, Salgado only found inspiration that resulted in one of my favourite pieces in the show.

Salgado will be heading off in a couple weeks to London, England to complete his Master in Fine Arts at the renowned Chelsea College of Art and Design. His work will be featured at the Interurban Gallery on 1 E. Hastings until September 7th.

Other exhibits currently on display that I viewed last night were:

Learn to Read Art: A History of Printed Matter at Artspeak.
Animal:Animus at Access Gallery
"We Declare": Spaces of Housing at Gallery Gachet
Styrofoam Huffer at Helen Pitt Gallery.

Enjoy the slideshow below for a preview of what you'll find at these galleries. Also, don't forget to visit Swarm 2008's website for more information on works currently on display within Vancouver.