Margaret Kilgallen's retrospective, "In the Sweet Bye & Bye" opened at REDCAT in L.A. on Wednesday. A gifted and compelling young artist, Kilgallen died of breast cancer 4 years ago (at age 33) and, to a certain extent, has been mourned ever since. Her distinctive style was informed by the traditions of sign painting and folk art and her work embodies a compassion and craft that has touched the hearts of many. Portland punk photographer and filmmaker Bill Daniel was on-hand at the opening with a screening of his new film, "Who is Bozo Texino?". I won't be making it to L.A. before the show's closure so I welcome any comments of the exhibition.

Speaking of influence, the NYT writes about a public art endeavor spearheaded by ESPO (there "Mr. Powers") in the name of art, commerce and community at Coney Island. Artists and business owners are collaborating to develop new signage on the boardwalk, resulting in some unexpected and enriching alliances and what might be called a minor revitalization. The article mentions but doesn't elaborate on the Dreamland Artist Clubhouse which celebrates their 2005 grand opening tonight, featuring a formidible roster of rising art stars. Something about this just warms the cockles of my heart.