How heavenly that on this Easter Sunday the name Jesus and the idea of rebirth should so fittingly describe what has occurred at La Luz de Jesus. The popular gallery has been reborn as a bigger showcase, more than double in size. For decades, proprietor Billy Shire has nurtured such names as Coop, Gary Panter, Robert Williams, Joe Coleman, Pizz, the Clayton Brothers, Tim Biskup, Glenn Barr, Gary Baseman, Manuel Ocampo and Shag. The secret to Shire's success? “I look for the edge,” he explains. “I'd like to see myself as being a thorn in the side of the art establishment, but I now feel I've become a part of the art establishment.” He says the new gallery has returned to its roots even while looking ahead. “I want to get back to having fun.” The daringly divine creativity on display in Shire's new digs comes from artists Max Grundy, Dennis Larkins and Scott Hove (pictured). While the gallery has opened, you'll want to attend Dennis Larkin's book signing (Sat., April 3, 7 p.m.) for Startling Art, an eye-popping amazement. The official kickoff reception for the reborn gallery is on Fri., April 2, 8 p.m. Along with the usual opening night standards (beer and Goldfish crackers), there'll be trucks outside, offering cake and ice cream. For Christ's sake, don't miss it!

Mondays-Sundays. Starts: April 2. Continues through April 25, 2010

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