'Pop Fiction' at The White Room Gallery

Picasso said, “Inspiration does exist, but it must find you working.”

It’s an observation evidenced in The White Room Gallery’s new exhibit, “‘Pop Fiction” which extends a nod to the pulp fiction genre as it incorporates American history in the mid-20th century with images that are, at times, a tad racy. And there is also a fair amount of pulp. The show runs July 16 to August 11, and opens with a reception on Saturday, July 20, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Featured artist Nelson De La Nuez, also known as the “King of Pop Art,” not only pays homage to myriad styles, but he is forever recreating the execution. One of the most sought-after contemporary Pop artists practicing today, his vivid mixed media artwork borrows motifs and messages from the language of wealth, power, fame, excess, taste and access to cast a narrative about modern society.

Original De La Nuez pieces hang in Delta airline’s private collection in Delta One’s VIP and SkyClub airport lounges throughout the country. He has been commissioned by numerous high-profile brands to create bespoke installations and has earned a long list of celebrity admirers, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Diane Warren, Howie Mandel, Kaley Cuoco and Kelly Clarkson.

In The Black Room at the gallery is Markus Klinko, an award-winning, international fashion/celebrity photographer and director, who has worked with many iconic stars of film, music and fashion. With evocative shots of Bowie, Lady Gaga and Kim K, Klinko shows he is a master at creating a fictional narrative around the portrait.

Klinko has also photographed Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, Kanye West, Anne Hathaway, Kate Winslet, Eva Mendes, Naomi Campbell, Iman and many others. His editorial clients include Vogue, GQ, Vanity Fair, Harper’s Bazaar, and Interview magazine. He has created some of the most iconic album covers including Bowie’s “Heathen,” Beyonce’s “Dangerously in Love” and Mariah Carey’s “The Emancipation of Mimi.”

The pairing of these two artists, one bringing cool pop styles and the other cool pop stars makes “Pop Fiction” an exhibit that not only inspires but delights.

The White Room Gallery is at 3 Railroad Avenue in East Hampton. Visit thewhiteroom.gallery for details.