By Karan Singh
The LA Art Show has never cared much for boundaries. So when four paintings by The Clash’s Paul Simonon appear alongside work by a certain “sly” actor-director and a first-ever Latin American Pavilion, the mix feels right on brand. What the punk icon puts on canvas, though, might surprise you.
Bringing together more than 90 local and international exhibitors in 2026, director and producer Kassandra Voyagis welcomes back Rebecca Hossack Art Gallery from London, K+Y from Paris, and LICHT FELD Gallery from Basel, among several others. As for newcomers, Palm Beach’s Provident Fine Art will make its debut with a collection of paintings by Sylvester Stallone—yes, that one.
Additionally, the first-ever Latin American Pavilion, curated by Marisa Caichiolo, aims to further broaden the LA Art Show’s coverage. Regarding the initiative’s timeliness, she said, “At a moment when immigration issues continue to disproportionately impact Latin American communities, it is especially important to provide a platform for these artists.” The show comes on the heels of other noteworthy LA art exhibits, including The Hammer Museum’s biennial and Monuments at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA and The Brick.
Paul Simonon sets down the bass and picks up the brush
It’s within this spread that Paul Simonon’s four paintings, presented by John Martin Gallery, quietly resonate with unexpected force. After all, what could The Clash’s bassist possibly need to convey on canvas that he couldn’t through his songs? With that mindset, his subject matter feels primed for easy parallels—punks wore leather, so of course the punk icon will paint leather jackets and boots. In other words, the overlap is evident if you insist on it.
What’s remarkable about these artworks, however, is how little they resemble Simonon’s music when isolated. Unlike the speedy and pulsating anthems he’s best known for, each piece exists in silence and stillness. This contrast isn’t a failure of translation, but proof of his razor-sharp focus and versatility. Instead of recycling his identity across mediums, Simonon moves his brush with an entirely different set of instincts.
The English stringman’s refusal to adhere to a single narrative makes it a natural fit for the LA Art Show. These paintings aren’t meant to dominate the rooms they occupy, but rather exhibit the value of restraint in playing your part and fulfilling a purpose. Instead of letting his worlds collide, Simonon makes sure to set down his bass before picking up a brush.
Fast facts: LA Art Show
Ninety exhibitors, no boundaries, and a few welcome surprises—the LA Art Show stays true to form.
- LA Art Show, Los Angeles Convention Center (West Hall), 1201 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles
- January 7–11, 2026
