Lucky Rapp, fabulous, 6”x19”x2.5”, resin and mixed media on canvas

Spirited by Palm Springs anticipated Fall Modernism Week, Curator James Bacchi will presents MCM – The Reboot. This Group Exhibition of Contemporary Modernist Inspired Works features artists;  Armin Mayer, Bill Bloomfield, Mark D. Powers, LOLA, Carolyn Meyer, John Wood, Lucky Rapp, Serena Bocchino, Eric Rewitzer, Fernando Reyes, Jhina Alvarado and Pamela, Merory Dernham.

“In a word, text-based Artist Lucky Rapp sets the tone for MCM – THE REBOOT”, says Curator James  Bacchi. “Born in the mid-1950’s, I was surrounded by and grew up to appreciate midcentury authenticity. Fabulous it was.  And, fabulous it will always be. MCM – THE REBOOT present a contemporary take on this time honored aesthetic.”  

John Wood, Innocent Eyes, 40”x40”, mixed media on paper – mounted on panel – finished with cold wax varnish

John Wood’s beautiful abstract imagery is the culmination of a lifetime of work in art. His current mixed media paintings on paper incorporate the human form and landscape as starting points to build up layers of line, form and color in graphite, crayon, oil pastel and enamel. He strives to be as open and engaged as possible with the developing image, trusting that the art will lead him in the right direction. “In the end, my work alludes to a modernist  view of the real world only symbolically”, says the artist. “But I’m much more interested in the emotional and sensual qualities that emerge rather than any recognizable forms.”

Armin Mayer, Blush and Mint, ceramic sculptures

In a series of unique ceramic works, titled Pitosy Flores, Barcelona based Ceramic Artist Armin Mayer further supports his subjects in MCM color palettes.  “In the 1970’s, jockstraps broke out of the locker room”, says Mayer.  “Queer culture claimed it and turned it into a symbol of identity, pride and expression. From undergound bars to fashion runways, from secret to statement, the jockstrap became iconic.”

Mark D. Powers
Desert Life Savers, 9”x12”, acrylic on panel

“Staying at a retro midcentury resort, complete with beach balls and floaty rings, puts me right into the desert every time”, says self-taught realsist Mark D. Powers.  “This contemporary painting, with its bright juicy toys, makes me feel like a kid again. And of course, there’s that longing to lounge poolside with cocktails and breezy tunes.”

Curator James Bacchi’s contemporized spin on MCM is noteworthy.  His assemblage of this group of celebrated artists and their work often tease the viewer with a glimpse of the past while they respectfully prepare us for this clever modernist reboot.    

MCM – THE REBOOT
October 6 – December 29, 2025
Opening Reception
Saturday, October 18, 2025
4-7pm
Gallery Hours:  Thursday-Monday
11-5

JAMES BACCHI CONTEMPORARY
@ The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five
1345 N. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA
415-652-2915