“Welcome to My World” Art Show at Modernica Through September 13

Inspired by her son’s passion for creating sculptures from found objects, Jenny Novak, co-owner with her husband Jay of Modernica furniture at 7366 Beverly Blvd., decided it was time to create an art show that would feature their son Ben’s work as well as the work of other neurodiverse artists.

For the past three years, Novak has curated the show, “Welcome to My World,” which runs through September 13 and fills their furniture gallery with new work every year. This year, the show features art from Ben Novak, Molly Rose, James Young, Noah Schneider, and UnMi Paik-Kamarck. Some of the artists are studying to be professional artists, others are just creating art for themselves. But each year the show features new work, which is easy to do since these artists are very prolific, explained Novak. That’s one of the few rules Novak imposes on the show.

“I want everything to be new,” Novak told the Buzz. She organizes all the work and hangs the show herself every year. In the past, Novak has hosted a reception for the artists and their friends and family, but this year the pandemic prevented them from hosting a reception. However, the show can still be seen daily. The store is open from Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  All the work is for sale, though much has already been sold, and all the proceeds go directly to the artists. Novak has worked with the artists to price the work so it’s accessible, with most pieces are between $100-200, and some even less. Novak said that well established artists have come in and purchased pieces of art. Professional artists appreciate the directness of the work, explained Novak.

“It’s not self-conscious,” said Novak. “that is not something you can teach. People really like the art and want to know more about the artists and the art.”

Novak has created a website and an Instagram account that features all the work, but it’s really wonderful to see it in person.