"Xenophilia" by Lauren YS & "Scandalized" by Miranda Tacchia

NEW YORK CITY - Hashimoto Contemporary is pleased to present two concurrent solo exhibitions by Los Angeles-based artists Lauren YS and Miranda Tacchia. Xenophilia, and Scandalized respectively are the artist’s debut solo exhibitions with Hashimoto Contemporary.

Inspired by Shunga (traditional Japanese erotic art) and science fiction, Lauren YS has created a world filled with writhing and cavorting characters that defy traditional categorization or binaries. Animals and humans morph and meld with one another, recalling symbols and metaphors from YS’ multi-cultural background and influences.

Each piece celebrates the “other,” deviants and monstrous miscreants entwined in joyful exploration. YS states, “The concept of ‘xenophilia' expands to promote a ubiquitous enthusiasm for all which is strange and other within the bounds of positivity and consent, leaving the viewer with the unequivocal notion that, in the end, the freaks have it.”

With a background in animation and character design, Miranda Tacchia’s concise drawings offer biting and witty observations of dating, relationships, feminism and being a woman today. Each of her titles is paired with a colorfully hued and emotive female figure, such as “When he stumbles over his words every time he looks at you” pictured above. Each of her characters simultaneously embodies vulnerability, strength and self-confidence.

Working on a small scale, Tacchia’s work beckons the viewer in to investigate each character, each narrative and each side long glance. The highly relatable nature of her work perfectly embodies intimate, often hilarious, everyday moments of women moving through the world.

Please join us Saturday, March 2nd from 6pm - 8pm for the opening receptions of Xenophelia and Scandalized. Both artists will be in attendance. The exhibitions will be on view through Saturday, March 23rd. For more information, additional images, or exclusive content, please email us at sf@hashimotocontemporary.com