FEATURE REVIEWS

Art in a World Explorer's Journey Through the Lens and Beyond

Fahad Alhumaid 's odyssey through the world's natural wonders and ancient sites.

Fahad Alhumaid 's odyssey through the world's natural wonders and ancient sites.From the ancient ruins of the Mayan civilization in Central America to the imperial grandeur of China's historic monuments, Fahad Alhumaid's passion for photography and travel has taken him on a transcendent journey across the globe. Fahad's love for capturing the essence of nature, animals, buildings, and ancient sites; is a vivid testament to the beauty and diversity of our world.  The art of photography, for Fahad, goes beyond the mere act of taking pictures. It is about preserving fleeting moments of grandeur and intimacy that the world offers in abundance. His chosen tools of trade—a Canon 500D, a Canon 5D mark IV, a GoPro Hero 7, and an array of lenses—have been his companions in encapsulating these moments. Surprisingly though, some of his most striking images have emerged from the lens of his iPhone, a testament to the photographer's eye rather than the equipment used.

Fahad's journey with National Geographic Expeditions is a highlight of his photographic endeavors. His explorations of the Mayan locations in Guatemala and Mexico, and later the Imperial treasures of China, are not merely travelogues but a confluence of history, culture, and visual storytelling. Having his photographs featured on National Geographic's prestigious platform speaks volumes about the aesthetic and emotional resonance of his work.

In an era where digital images are ephemeral, Fahad has chosen to immortalize his experiences by printing his photographs on acrylic and aluminum-dibond, with a preference for acrylic due to its vibrancy. The careful selection of materials for printing demonstrates his commitment to presenting his work in the best light possible, ensuring that each piece not only captures a moment in time but also does so with the grandeur it deserves.

But Fahad's creative expression does not end with photography. His artistic profile reveals a multi-faceted talent. With over 30 years of painting, Fahad has continuously evolved his craft. The introduction of resin in his mixed media paintings has given rise to a technique that marries acrylic pour with layers of resin and various materials, creating a depth that is almost three-dimensional. His "Crystal portals" series, which incorporates photography, resin, acrylic pour, and pop culture elements, showcases a depth of up to 2.5 inches, presenting a unique window into his creative mind.

As Fahad Alhumaid continues to traverse the world, with 30 countries and counting, his journey is one of constant discovery and reinvention. His dedication to capturing the world's beauty and his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation serve as an inspiration to both avid travelers and aspiring artists. His works are more than just photographs or paintings; they are portals to the vast experiences and cultures that stitch the tapestry of our planet. To experience the world through Fahad's lens is to embark on a global odyssey, one that celebrates the richness of the earth and the ceaseless creativity of the human spirit. As he plans his future trips, one can only anticipate the new horizons he will unveil and the subsequent masterpieces that will emerge. Fahad Alhumaid's story is a compelling reminder that the world is a canvas waiting to be explored, and through exploration and artistry, we find not only beauty but also a deeper connection to the places and people that shape our collective history. Fahad's exhibition program for 2024 includes ACCA JOURNAL Art Party at the Bergamot Station Arts Center during Frieze art week and San Diego Comic-Con.

Represented by ACCA Gallery, Beverly Hills

Tracy Dennison 

The Essence of Art Deco 

Tracy Dennison, a prodigious yet underrecognized talent, has spent her life cultivating a mastery of art that began in her childhood. Born into a family with a creative lineage and a backdrop of Hollywood glamour, Dennison's artistic journey was destined to be anything but ordinary. Her father, a World War II bomber pilot, and her mother, a New York nightclub singer, provided a rich tapestry of experiences that shaped Tracy's creative outlook. Tracy Dennison's artistic legacy is steeped in the narrative of her Hollywood heritage and the golden era of Art Deco. Her work, deeply influenced by her mother's tales of New York's glitz and the glamour of classic cinema, encapsulates the elegance of the 1920s and '30s. Each painting is a romantic scene, inviting viewers into a world where the grandeur of the past is vividly brought to life. Despite personal challenges like double vision, Dennison's artistic fire never waned, leading her to produce serene wildlife paintings with the same passion she brought to her earlier works. Her resolve to create is unwavering, and the anticipation for her collection's release as limited editions is high. Her versatility extends to literature, where she collaborates on children's books, and to fashion, with a line of Art Deco ties. These endeavors, along with her partnership with ACCA, promise to introduce Dennison's enchanting vision to a broader audience. Tracy Dennison's art, a blend of history, fantasy, and beauty, is a testament to a life dedicated to the pursuit of creative expression. Her once-hidden masterpieces are now poised to mesmerize art lovers and collectors worldwide.  

~ ACCA, Beverly Hills, February 2024

ACCA presents Tracy Dennison lifestyle gifts for Art Lovers at www.accaart.com/shop-tracy-dennison

Brandon the Wizard aka Gandalf the Black

Brandon's Alchemist Quest  for Transcendence

Brandon Bailey is an artist who is known by the moniker "Brandon the Wizard aka Gandalf the Black." He has a strong belief that art is a potent form of magic that could influence the physical, mental, and metaphysical aspects of our lives. He uses the title "Wizard" to emphasize the profound impact his art has on these levels. The name "Gandalf" is a tribute to the wise and mystical nature of his craft, paying homage to the renowned wizard from J.R. Tolkien's works. The word "Black" represents the primal void that is the source of all things in the universe, reminding him of the deep origins from which his creativity flows. The Wizard is from Ontario, California. He has over 15 years of experience in live painting at concerts, raves, transformational festivals, and private events. His creativity knows no bounds, and he infuses his energy and passion into every stroke. In addition to his skill with a canvas, The Wizard is a talented graphic artist, using software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Adobe After Effects to bring his visions to life. He also excels in music, producing and singing across genres like hip-hop, metal, and experimental beat production. Brandon is a multi-instrumentalist, mastering the guitar, bass guitar, and drums, and creating songs and instrumentals that appeal to commercial audiences.

The Wizard’s artistic goal transcends the conventional. His creations serve as a conduit for the philosophy of oneness, weaving together spiritual beliefs and modalities from diverse cultures across the globe. Through his art, he showcases the profound interconnectedness of humanity while paying homage to pop culture icons from the worlds of comic books and anime, which do as well, and hold the keys to universal truths. Brandon the Wizard aka Gandalf the Black invites you to step into his enchanting realm, where art is magic, and the canvas is the conduit to a higher understanding of our shared existence.

Lions Gate Portal 

2020 |  36 x 48-inch canvas

acrylic, spray paint, oil-based paint markers.

The painting "Lion's Gate Portal" is inspired by the Leo astrological alignment, a cosmic event that holds significant mysticism. This event marks the opening of a spiritual gateway that can lead to profound healing and realignment of the soul. In the painting itself, a goddess is the central figure who guides the unlocking of the Lion's Gate with the help of ancestral lion spirits from the zodiac.

Higher Self 

2018 |  24 x 20-inch canvas

acrylic, spray paint, oil-based paint markers.

'Higher Self' is an amazing piece that encourages viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery by connecting with their inner essence. The artwork portrays a young goddess meditating in a lush jungle. Her crown chakra releases, symbolizing the liberation of her higher self. The trees lining her path are vibrant and colored in the same hues as the chakras, serving as metaphors for the aligned energetic centers running up her spine. This beautiful artwork celebrates the transformative power of meditation and the connection with nature, reminding us of the infinite potential for spiritual growth and self-discovery.

Represented by ACCA Gallery, Beverly Hills