Nikki Luna, "Precious and Fertile", detail

The word beat connotes either the pulsating rhythm of a musical piece or the exhaustion resulting from defeat.  The first definition puts us in mind of a fun-filled frenzy while the second brings on images of imminent collapse.  The contrasting styles of Ernest Concepcion and Nikki Luna parallel this duality.  Yet, as this exhibit at the Lopez Museum shows, when deftly handled, Ernest’s humorous illustrations and Nikki’s pleas for the oppressed can both make for one powerful show. Continue reading →