Avatar is more commonly known now as the gay side of BDSM in Los Angeles. When I moved down to LA in the mid 90’s, BDSM groups were very closeted and it could be difficult to find your way in. Avatar was one place you could catch a break. While primarily gay, their classes were open to the community and they had huge respect.
They’re celebrating 35 years of erotic and BDSM art at Highways in Santa Monica this month. That’s really going back to our roots, as Highways was a quiet supporter of the BDSM community during the 80’s and 90’s. Threshold had their orientations and classes there and I believe Sherry Rose still does BDSM performance art there on occasion.
The show is on display through March 10th and includes work by Marc Acuna, Axel, Butch B, Dean Cameron, Oxana Diaz, Leo Garcia, Wim Griffith, Ross Johnston, Michael Kirwan,Sean Platter and more.
This will be at the Highways Performance Space, 1651 18th St., Santa Monica. Go to https://avatarla.org/avatar-35th-anniversary.html or call (310) 453-1755 for details.
Dungeon Net
Hogspy
