Justin Smith artwork to show at preview on Aug. 11

Justin Robinson Smith, a mixed-media artist, whose “Guitar Hero” paintings are currently being shown at the Second Story Gallery of the New Orleans Healing Center, is preparing for a new show that will focus entirely on his unusual artistic work.

Justin Robinson Smith's art at the Second Floor Gallery of the New Orleans Healing Center.

A self-described tribal and abstract artist, Smith has announced a preview party for his next solo show to be held on August 11 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Second Story Gallery, 2372 St. Claude Avenue. The show will continue until September 1. “I’m going to have imaginary tribal deities of Meso-America plus some architectural paintings of New Orleans like St. Louis Cathedral and St. Rita’s Church,” Smith explained. He also plans to display several specially painted cypress windows he has prepared for the show.Born in Baton Rouge, Smith has been a resident of New Orleans for most of his life. He comes from a long line of New Orleans artists on both sides of his family. His grandfather was the late Joseph Smith, who taught art at Fortier High School for 40 years. His father Sidney is a renowned rock photographer. For more information or to see examples of his art, go to his website here.

(Note: Smith is a cousin of CCJN Editor Alan Smason)