A Self-Made Artist with a Passion for Creativity

Alexander had a noteworthy career as an artist. He achieved significant milestones and had several successes. He, in essence, was self-made. For the most part, he had no representation. He was driven largely by an endless appetite for invention and creativity. Not always, but indeed often, he favored bigger works.

As for his life and career, today relatively little is known about what appears to be much to know.

The VEFA Gallery’s Vision and Challenges

The new VEFA Gallery faces an interesting challenge. The city of Torrance, California, is far from being a “gotta-go-to” hotbed for the greater fine art community. At present, VEFA is just beginning to establish its presence and identity within the local art scene—much less the greater Los Angeles and Orange County art communities, not to mention the national and international art circles. The challenge is significant, and so too is the opportunity.

Thus far, following its first two successful exhibitions, things appear promising for Joseph and Kath Anderson and their children, who own, designed, and built the fledgling gallery from what was previously Dr. Joe’s highly successful 7,000-square-foot orthopedic clinic.

Building a Successful Art Gallery

Showing art is one thing; selling art is another. Building a successful gallery, although a confluence of both, is yet another. Key factors for a resounding success—beyond the art itself—are the implementation of a well-thought-out, strategic marketing plan and ongoing effective brand-building. This all now rests in the hands of Jonathan Anderson, Gallery Director/Assistant Curator, his three brothers—Joey, Gabriel, and George—and the hand-picked support staff working with them on the project.

Bringing the Alexander Retrospective to Life

It was Dr. Joe himself and Jonathan who had the understanding, foresight, and vision to bring in the Alexander Retrospective. The deal was confirmed initially in 2021, two years prior to Alexander’s death in March of 2023 at the age of 96, and four years prior to the formal opening of the gallery.

As it stands today, the gallery will have a full growth year under its belt before the exhibit takes place in the first quarter of 2026. The opening date has yet to be finalized. As with any exhibition, the artwork selection will be a critical factor in producing a successful show. For the Alexander Retrospective, the “story” and the staging will also be of great importance.

A Unique Approach to Exhibition Staging

In this regard, and not yet fully confirmed, there is a possibility that John D’Temple, one of the noted video and effects technology artists in the industry, could be involved in the staging—both audio and visual. This aims to be more than just another exhibition of artworks hanging on walls and standing on pedestals with lighting and signage. The goal is to create a memorable “show” unlike any other—one that seeks to leave a lasting impact on all internet and in-house attendees. The combined objective is to make a strong artistic and promotional statement, while also pursuing financial success for both the gallery and the artist’s legacy.

Alexander’s Creative Drive and Artistic Philosophy

In the creative process, Alexander reportedly cared little about money. His artwork was not driven by the dollar bill, the Euro, the Italian Lira, the French Franc, the Dutch Guilder, or the Russian Ruble. It was driven primarily by the innate desire to create in a manner that was not yet widely explored. His goal was to provide a unique and novel platform from which others might find inspiration for their own creative processes.

A Retrospective Journey Through Alexander’s Work

The story to be told at the upcoming VEFA show is a comprehensive retrospective of his artistic life—leading up to the day of his death, as he worked diligently until just before his passing. It begins with his early paintings and sculpture, transitions through his monumental commissions, his four-dimensional artworks, and his experiments in merging holography with fine art. It concludes with the 350 or so paintings produced during what he termed his “post-contemporary” period, which spanned nearly the entire final decade of his notably productive life.

Past Exhibitions and Looking to the Future

Alexander’s last major exhibition was in Seoul, South Korea, in 1993. It was housed in 10,000 square feet of gallery space at the Seoul Art Center Conservatory and Museum. While more exhibitions followed, none were nearly as large as the short-form retrospective that took place in Seoul.

Early on, Alexander expressed to Jonathan and Dr. Joe his excitement and anticipation regarding the VEFA show. His greatest concern was whether he would be alive for the opening. He won’t be, but his legacy will remain—thanks entirely to the Anderson family, Peter Frank, and all those working to make the Alexander Lifetime Retrospective as engaging, immersive, and informative as possible.

For questions regarding the artist or the show, contact Suzi Paine at www.vefagallery.com and http://www.alexander-art.net/

Published by Joseph T.