Interactive app-based art trail begins March 1 ahead of March 28 exhibition opening.
A major retrospective celebrating the work of British illustrator Ralph Steadman will open March 28 at the Torrance Art Museum, accompanied by a regionwide interactive art initiative designed to engage the public in the spirit of “gonzo” creativity.
The exhibition, “Ralph Steadman: And Another Thing,” runs March 28 through May 9 and features 149 original artworks spanning more than six decades of Steadman’s career, along with sketchbooks, children’s books, magazines, photographs and handwritten notes.
In advance of the exhibition, organizers will launch the “Gonzo Art Trail” on March 1. The participatory program, facilitated through the Goosechase mobile app, invites the public to complete creative missions and attend events across Los Angeles, Torrance and Santa Monica.
Steadman is widely known for his long-running collaboration with journalist Hunter S. Thompson, including illustrations for the 1971 book Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Together, the pair helped define “gonzo journalism,” a first-person reporting style that blends fact, commentary and personal perspective.
“The whole idea is to engage with the community on a street level,” Sadie Williams, executive director of the Ralph Steadman Art Collection, said in a statement. “Creativity and art are such powerful forces to bring people together.”
The art trail will culminate with the Torrance exhibition. Participants who complete required missions and attend the exhibition will receive a limited-edition commemorative Ralph Steadman enamel pin while supplies last.
Several special events are scheduled in conjunction with the exhibition:
A live show March 25 at The Actors’ Gang in Culver City will feature readings and performances inspired by Steadman’s work. Actor Tim Robbins is slated to host, with appearances by Josh Brolin, Michael C. Mahon and Pat Healey, along with singer Kim Chase.
A book event March 30 at Book Soup in West Hollywood will include a talk and catalog stamping by Williams using ink from Steadman’s desk.
On April 11, the American Honda Collection Hall will host a “Bikes, Cars and Coffee” gathering themed around racing.
A screening of the 2012 documentary For No Good Reason is scheduled for April 24 at The Actors’ Gang. The film, directed by Charlie Paul and narrated by Johnny Depp, examines Steadman’s artistic process and political views.
After its Torrance run, the exhibition will travel to the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art at Colorado State University from Aug. 27 to Dec. 13, before concluding its U.S. tour at the Barry Art Museum at Old Dominion University from Jan. 29 to June 20, 2027.
