The Gallery Hangover

Ep.6 Last Place Art Club . Art Collective

In the sixth episode of The Gallery Hangover, gallerist Yessíca Torres hosts the first group conversation of the series with the founders of The Last Place Art Club, Devin O’Reilly Sullivan, Cheyanne Proctor, and Roger Martel. Recorded in Yessíca’s former studio, now home to the collective, the setting underscores a full circle moment as a new generation reshapes the space and the surrounding art scene. The discussion centers on how The Last Place Art Club is actively revitalizing Ventura’s creative landscape, bringing together a younger wave of artists with a respect for established practices and standards. As these worlds intersect, the result is a dynamic exchange that pushes both energy and intention forward, creating work that feels immediate, collaborative, and deeply engaged. Yessíca reflects on the group if young artists as a return to the spirit of early art collectives, drawing parallels to the raw, community driven movements that once defined major art cities. Together, they discuss how the collective formed, their shared vision, and the momentum building around their upcoming mural project. Through this conversation, the episode captures a turning point in a local art scene driven by collaboration, risk, and the belief that something meaningful happens when artists build together.

Ep. 5 Gabriel Islas . Plein Air Painter

In the fifth episode of The Gallery Hangover, gallerist Yessíca Torres sits down with painter Gabriel Islas to discuss his evolving practice and the launch of PALS, a newly formed plein air painting group that is quickly setting a new standard for a rising generation of landscape painters. Known for his atmospheric oil paintings, Gabriel draws from firsthand experience painting across some of the country’s most striking landscapes, including the Eastern Sierras, the Grand Tetons, and Denali in Alaska. The conversation centers on his commitment to plein air painting, the discipline behind working on site, and how scale, environment, and observation shape his work. Yessíca and Gabriel also discuss his role as an instructor, including his ongoing classes and collaboration with fellow studio artist Jem Atwater. Together, they reflect on the importance of mentorship, community, and creating spaces where painters can develop both technically and conceptually. Positioned at a pivotal moment in his career following major recognition, Gabriel shares insight into his recent work, the formation of PALS, and what lies ahead with their upcoming group exhibition. Through this post opening conversation, he offers a grounded perspective on dedication, growth, and the evolving landscape of contemporary plein air painting.

Ep. 3 Edgar Takoyaki . Photographer

In this episode of The Gallery Hangover, gallerist Yessíca Torres sits down with photographer Edgar Takoyaki following his latest exhibition at Dama Gallery Ventura; Before The Fall. Working exclusively in film, Edgar shares travel based photographs captured across Japan and Taiwan, using 35mm and 120 medium format to create images rooted in patience, precision, and lived experience. Edgar also speaks on his expanding success abroad and the renewed interest in film among collectors, exploring how the tangible and deliberate nature of analog photography is finding new value in today’s market. Looking ahead, he introduces new projects that reconnect him with an early collaborator, his homemade robot, signaling a return to experimentation within his work. Through this post opening conversation, Edgar offers insight into the discipline of film photography, the importance of representation, and the ongoing balance between documentation and creative exploration.

Ep. 2 Sara Koenig . Artist

In this episode of The Gallery Hangover, gallerist Yessíca Torres sits down with artist Sara Koenig following her exhibition at Dama Gallery Ventura; Before The Fall. Known for her collage based practice, Sara explores themes of identity, representation, and cultural influence through layered compositions that reflect both personal and collective narratives. The conversation centers on her artistic process and the women who appear throughout her work, examining how visibility, heritage, and storytelling intersect. Drawing from her Colombian roots, Sara discusses the influence of Latin culture in shaping her visual language, as well as how her career as a doctor informs her perspective, discipline, and approach to art making. Positioned as a pivotal moment in her career, Sara reflects on what she describes as a breakout year, sharing insight into her growth as an artist and what lies ahead. Through this post opening dialogue, she offers a thoughtful look at the balance between professional identity, creative expression, and the evolving trajectory of her work.

Ep. 1 Malachi Arthur . Artist

In the first episode of Gallery Hangover, host Yessíca Torres sits down with painter Malachi Arthur following his participation in Before the Fall at Dama Gallery. A 26 year old oil painter from Sacramento, Malachi brings a practice rooted in expressive color, layered imagery, and a deep commitment to social and political awareness. The conversation centers on his works Whitey On the Moon and Whatdido?, unpacking themes of utility, disposability, and the tension between human presence and constructed systems. Drawing from historical and cultural references, Malachi explores the contrast between warmth and machinery, softness and structure, and the broader implications of labor, technology, and identity within his work. Through this post opening reflection, Malachi offers insight into his artistic process, the intention behind his visual language, and how his work contributes to an ongoing dialogue about responsibility, awareness, and the role of the artist in confronting complex realities.