The Whale of Gratitude by Dennis McNett grows and grows! Come see what we mean during Laguna Beach Artwalk March 1, 2012, 6-9pm: Dennis McNett original artwork, prints and handmade clay/wood/ leather masks along with viewing of the Whale of Gratitude.

Dennis McNett’s solo exhibit Wolfbat Shamans and the Whale of Gratitude goes through Mar. 24, 2012.

Plus, a special 1-night live demonstration feat. Camilla Taylor three dimensional printed pieces will also take place Mar. 1, 2012 during Laguna Beach Artwalk.

Camilla received her MFA with an emphasis in printmaking from California State University at Long Beach in 2011. She received her BFA, also in printmaking, from University of Utah in Salt Lake City. She is currently residing in downtown Los Angeles, CA.

Photo of Dennis McNett Shaman Mask: Peter Stow

Dennis McNett and the Wolfbat Shamans have arrived in Laguna Beach – bringing with them spirits not seen in these parts for decades… spirits from a time when mystical creatures walked the earth among their human counterparts, and their stories followed them through the ages to become legend. Right now as we read this, thanks to the art of Dennis McNett, creatures are stirring once again – laying the path for stories yet to be written.

Everyone who entered AR4T Gallery last Saturday was initiated as Wolfbat Tribesman on the opening night of Wolfbat Shamans and the Whale of Gratitude. McNett’s masked shamans, portholes and shields were regarded by old and young. Each tribesman brought their gifts of gratitude to the whale, as did the haunting vocal serenade of El Mysterioso. The combination made for one of the most captivating pictures to come out of our gallery.

McNett and his girlfriend Miryam had traveled from Brooklyn on what was M’s first trip to California. She noticed that everyone smiles here. So… it’s not a myth that happiness prevails; the Whale of Gratitude succeeded in its intention. What happens to the whale after? The story continues… Come see the installation, which took McNett four days to build from the ground up, for the full explanation.

On Saturday people were able to snag their first choice McNett print (priced from $20 to $350) discounted a little something extra on opening night. If you missed the opening,  prints and artwork will be on view and for purchase through March 24, 2012 (regular gallery hours Weds.-Sat. 3-8pm).

Photos: From the Instagram feeds of Dennis McNett (top) and Jesse Fulton (here). Photos below by Pete Stow. See more at Spire1.com.

Big thank you to Vans.

Thank you Michael Hsiung for an amazing collection of photos taken at the show! View a bunch more photos here >>  Vansart.tumblr

A few days before the official opening of Dennis McNett’s Wolfbat Shamans and The Whale of Gratitiude, a special group got together to celebrate. Wanted to share a couple of photos from that evening. Thank you to Doug Palladini from Vans for bringing Dennis out to LB from Brooklyn, and thank you to Thierry at Brussels Bistro for once again hosting a lovely dinner party.

Anika & Jon Warren with Dennis

Doug Palladini, Torrey Cook, Dennis & Greg Escalante

Annie Adchavanich and Chris O.

Ben and Marty

Mark Weiner, Russ & Jennifer Pope

Carl E Smith & the infamous Brian Cook

Jon & Bethany

When Dennis McNett makes plans to come to your school, do not be late on signing up and miss out. Thanks to Boys and Girls Club Art Director, Emily Murray, 30 boys and girls from the club got to spend two afternoons with Dennis making the most epic masks EVER. Day one… forming the shape of the wolfbat zombie dragon wizard masks to wherever the imagination took them. Day two.. decorating the cardboard bones with multi colored paper skin and scales that Dennis shipped out from NY. Kids and parents alike said it was hands down one of the most fun projects to date. Thanks Dennis! And thanks to Vans from bringing him all the way from Brooklyn.