​Munzón Gallery is excited to announce Mark Anthony Hocutt's first solo exhibition with the gallery "Diamond in the Rough," opening Saturday October 5th from 6-9pm and will remain on view through November 2, 2024.

​

"Diamond in the Rough" marks a pivotal moment in Mark Anthony Hocutt's artistic journey, where the intersection of automotive craftsmanship and fine art reaches new heights. A Whittier native, Hocutt's roots in Southern California's car culture are palpable in his work, which has always blurred the lines between traditional fine art and the intricate world of lowrider kustomization. Known for his signature kustom painted plexiglass panels, Hocutt's practice has evolved in this new body of work, where mural elements begin to play a significant role. This integration speaks to a deeper exploration of space and narrative within his compositions, offering viewers a dynamic interplay between art and automotive design.

In "Diamond in the Rough," Hocutt showcases a newfound confidence in his technique, introducing complex paint applications that include the use of brushes, airbrushes, and other kustom painting methods. These elements create layered, intricate compositions that challenge the viewer's perception of depth and movement. Some pieces draw attention to focal points or central motifs, while others suggest an expansion beyond the frame, evoking the grandeur of a complete lowrider build. This exhibition not only highlights Hocutt's mastery of design, composition, and color theory but also invites us to reconsider the boundaries of fine art, especially in the context of a self-taught artist who defies the conventions of formal training. "Diamond in the Rough" is a testament to Hocutt's ongoing journey, where each piece reflects both his deep cultural roots and his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation.

​

Artist Bio:

Mark Anthony Hocutt (b. 1995, Whittier, CA) is a kustom automotive painter who merges his passion for car restoration with artistic creation. Primarily working in the automotive industry, Hocutt specializes in customizing car builds and crafting kustom painted plexiglass and metal panels. His education in airbrush and automotive painting was shaped through mentorships rather than formal schooling. He has exhibited nationally with Flatline Gallery, Munzon Gallery, and Motherling, and will debut his first solo exhibition, “Diamond in the Rough,” at Munzon Gallery in Fall 2024.

Growing up near Whittier Blvd, Hocutt was surrounded by the vibrant culture of lowriders, hot rods, and classic cars, which deeply influenced his artistic and professional trajectory. At sixteen, he began working on his first project car, a 1984 El Camino, gifted by his uncle. Over the years, Hocutt honed his skills through various apprenticeships, mastering the techniques needed to recreate the iconic lowrider styles of the 60s and 70s. By the age of twenty-five, he established his own auto body shop, The Kolor Studio, which also serves as his creative workspace.