ABOUT THE ARTIST
Gary Wong: An Artist Shaped by Culture, Music, and Personal Journey
Gary Wong, born in 1944, is a distinctive figure in the West Coast art scene, celebrated for blending his 4th generation Chinese-American heritage with the bold spirit of California. Growing up in Los Angeles, Wong’s upbringing bridged traditional Eastern aesthetics and the vibrant, rebellious energy of Western culture. Studying under Emerson Woelffer and Matsumi Kanemitsu at the Chouinard Art Institute, he became a pivotal figure in the evolving dialogue of West Coast postmodernism. His involvement in surf, skate, and rock culture is equally significant, as he was a member of the legendary underground collective, the Jook Savages, alongside Rick Griffin. Through his associations with Boyd Elder (Eagles), Ivan Hosoi (Hosoi Skates), and Jim Ganzer (Jimmy Z), Wong’s influence extends across both the art world and the music scene.
In 1966, Wong, along with fellow Chouinard alums Terry Allen and Ron Cooper, opened Gallery 66, an experimental space that pushed the boundaries of art and culture. During this time, he also formed his first blues band, The Black Wall Blues Quintet, with Terry Allen on piano, marking the start of his deep integration of music into his artistic journey. His connection to the music world only deepened as, from 1967 to 1968, he served as the MC for Pinnacle Concerts, where he introduced Los Angeles to legendary acts like The Who, Jimi Hendrix, Lou Reed, Cream, The Doors, Janis Joplin, The Yardbirds, and The Grateful Dead. Of particular significance in Wong’s artistic journey was his responsibility for booking the Black acts at Pinnacle Concerts, bringing legendary performers such as Junior Wells, Ike and Tina Turner Revue, Buddy Guy, Magic Sam, and Albert King among others, to the Los Angeles stage. These experiences not only broadened Wong’s musical influence but also instilled a profound sense of the live, dynamic energy he sought to capture in his artwork.
Wong's work is deeply shaped by his belief in the interconnectedness of art and music. As he explains, “Music and art are not separate to me. They speak the same language of feeling.” This perspective is evident in his art, which merges his love for blues, poetry, and traditional Chinese aesthetics. His collage-based process often combines paint, drawing, and photography, while reflecting both his formal artistic approach and a folk-like, primal style. Wong’s pieces are layered with symbolism and emotion, much like the raw, expressive quality of blues music, with the aim of evoking a visceral reaction from the viewer.
A key aspect of Wong's legacy is his ability to seamlessly blend his cultural heritage, musical influences, and artistic practices, resonating with audiences for their emotional depth and richness. His involvement with the California Locos, a collective of artists who defined the rebellious spirit of the West Coast, further cemented his role in shaping the artistic landscape of his time. As a member of this iconic group, Wong’s work continues to inspire and influence future generations of artists, establishing him as a significant figure in contemporary art. Through his multifaceted contributions to both art and music, Gary Wong embodies the dynamic energy that continues to shape the creative and cultural movements of the West Coast.
