src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=927569457901051&ev=PageView&noscript=1" />

Galleries

Cityscapes & Streetscapes
March 7 – June 5, 2024
Reception: March 8, 6-8pm
First Floor Gallery located at Santa Clarita City Hall
23920 Valencia Blvd #120, Valencia, CA 91355

The City of Santa Clarita is thrilled to announce the opening of its latest art exhibition, “Cityscapes and Streetscapes,” at the First Floor Gallery within Santa Clarita’s City Hall. This showcase will run from March 7 through June 5, 2024, with a special reception event planned for Friday, March 8, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

“Cityscapes and Streetscapes” showcases the nuanced perspectives of city living through various artistic mediums as seen in Mark Foster’s textured paintings, Robert Gideon’s black and white photography, and Gevork Sherbetchyan’s sublime digital painting. Exploring the dynamic and evolving narrative of urban landscapes and the intricate streets that weave through them, these curated artworks capture the essence of city life in its myriad forms – from the quiet street corners pictured in Therese Verner’s Street Vendor in Paros to the bustling populated streets in Gary Friedman’s On the Street water color painting. These selected artworks contribute visually to the compelling narrative that speaks not just to the aesthetics of cityscapes and streetscapes, but also the human experiences and stories they encompass.

Please join the City for an evening to discuss the featured artwork and get to know the artists behind the original artworks on Friday, March 8 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the First Floor Gallery. Enjoy light refreshments and live music throughout the evening.

Exhibiting Artists: Al Miller, Edessa Daliva, Faye Abharian, Gary Friedman, Gautam Misra, Gevork Sherbetchyan, Jane Mick, Jennifer St. Jude, Lana Dandan, Laurie Morgan, Mark Foster, Matthew Markum, Neil Rivas, Rigo Iglesias, Robert Gideon, Robert Koss, Scott Sager, Taylor Caliz, Taylor McCarrey, Therese Verner, and Thomas Valle Stallman.

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged by the artist after the show ends on June 5, 2024.

Image Credit: Gary Friedman, On the Street, Watercolor, 11 x 14in.

View the digital catalog online now!


Watch SCTV’s Finding Art Video Spotlight!

Read More

Woven Roots by Taylor Thomas
March 14 – June 12, 2024
Canyon Country Community Center, 18410 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita, CA 91351

The City of Santa Clarita proudly presents Taylor Thomas’ latest exhibit, “Woven Roots,” a compelling investigation into the depiction of the Black family across generations. The exhibition is on view from March 14 – June 12, 2024 at the Canyon Country Community Centre Gallery, inviting audiences to engage with Thomas’ personal exploration of her heritage and the broader narratives of Blackness in America.

In “Woven Roots,” Taylor Thomas delves into the public and private spheres of Black family representation, employing her family’s archive as a foundational element. Through the technique of collaging original photographs with materials sourced from urban landscape, such as commercial street posters, and integrating mirrors, Thomas transcends traditional portraiture. This act of liberation from the frame and the integration of disparate elements not only bridges generational divides, but also initiates a dialogue on the evolving perceptions of Black identity.

Taylor Thomas, a Chicago native, has created a nuanced approach to storytelling. Her academic background, a graduate from Amherst College with a double major in Film & Media Studies and Sociology, and her experience in the entertainment industry, have informed her critical perspective on representation. Transitioning from her role at leading institutions like Netflix and The Walt Disney Company to pursue fine arts at the California Institute of the Arts, Thomas seeks to fill the void of diversity and complexity in the portrayal of Black narratives.

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged after the show ends on June 12, 2024.
Taylor Thomas | @created.by.taylor | www.createdbytaylor.squarespace.com

Q&A with Taylor Thomas

Hi Taylor, thank you for exhibiting your artwork with us at the Canyon Country Community Center. Tell us, what is your background. How did you get into art?
I got my undergraduate degree from Amherst College where I double majored in Sociology and Film & Media Studies. Post college, I worked in development at Netflix and The Walt Disney Company. After a few years of making films, I realized that I wanted to get closer to the creation of representational art. That led me to my pursuit of a MFA in Fine Art at CalArts.

What themes do you pursue in your art?
Some of the themes reflected in my work surround notions of Blackness, popular culture & entertainment, and understandings of family.

How do you usually start your pieces?
I start every piece by diving into my late grandmother’s photo archive. I find something new every time I flip through her collection of family photos, and I love how this process of discovery leads my creative practice. Whether it’s a gesture, location, or the composition within the frame, a detail in a photo will inspire me to create a new work.

Is there a specific environment or materials that are integral to your work?
I love working with found materials of all kinds – whether it’s the photos from my grandmother’s archive, commercial street posters I pull from signage around LA, or the quilts that I find at second hand stores. All of these materials have rich histories that I like to play with in my work.

What memorable responses have you had to your work? 
Since my practice is based in my family’s photo archive, the responses that mean the most to me are those from the family members that I’ve made collages of. I’m always so curious to hear what they think of the way I’ve captured them in a piece. This creative process prompts a lot of fascinating family conversations.

View the digital catalog online now!


Watch SCTV’s Finding Art Video Spotlight!

Read More

Sketchy Figures by Dale Voelker
February 23 – May 30, 2024
Valencia Public Library
23743 West Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita, CA 91355

Santa Clarita Arts announces “Sketchy Figures,” a solo exhibition by Dale Voelker which is on view at the Valencia Public Library February 23 through May 30, 2024. The work Voelker creates is about contemplation — pausing for a moment to appreciate the history in our lives. He asks the viewer to step off of life’s speedy treadmill and analyze these imaginary timelines he makes with vintage paper and paint.

Using reclaimed paper, manual, magazines, and textbooks, Voelker creates layered artwork that demands more than the casual glance. His art is about juggling time, color and balance. He strives to create art that is bold, physical and has an overall element of fun. His editing process is about layering — adding and covering back up. Voelkers current work is rugged and blends areas of control with those of absolute chaos, wielding paint, markers, spray paint and using whatever tools he can find to make a mark.

Dale Voelker graduated from California State University Northridge in 1989 with a Bachelor’s degree in Art and Design. He immediately jumped into working in the design world and then started his own design business in 1995 focusing on entertainment and non-profits. Dale has designed projects for John Fogerty, Cheap Trick, Sting, Rufus Wainwright, Obama for America, the University of Southern California and Teach for America. His practice is about flexing that design muscle – balancing design with the love for fearless mark making. Recently Dale has created solo shows of his artwork and regularly participates in group shows throughout Southern California. His artwork is part of private collections from New York to Los Angeles, from Miami to Honolulu and Europe.

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged after the show ends on May 30, 2024.
Dale Voelker | dalevoelker@yahoo.com | www.dalevoelker.com |@DaleVoelkerFineArt

Q&A with Dale Voelker

Hi Dale, thank you for exhibiting with us at the Valencia Public Library. Tell us, what motivates you to create?
Creating new artwork is just as thrilling as it was when I was in elementary school, drawing in sketchbooks and restaurant paper placemats. There is nothing quite as satisfying as seeing a  finished piece of art, signed and dated up on a wall.

How would you describe your artistic style?
I like to create abstracted figurative work as well as completely layered abstract work. My work can be large multi panel canvases to small 8.5 x 11 studies and all sizes in between. Regardless of the style or size, I strive to create bold, aggressive work that juggles chaos with design.

How do you usually start your pieces?
My artwork usually starts with seeing what I have available to work with at the moment — a large piece of canvas, a pad of watercolor paper or some wood panels.  From there I start with a sketch I have or a color palette or sometimes just start with loose lines and see where it goes.

Tell me about your favorite medium.
Working in a warm environment, acrylic paint is my favorite medium. I like to layer my work, and acrylic drys quick in the sun and holds up to real physical painting.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?
At the moment… Robert Rauschenberg (his use of non traditional materials and variety of work), Andy Warhol (questioning what can be art), and Kerry James Marshall (the most important contemporary artist, brave social commentary).

SCVTV.com: Dale Voelker ‘Sketchy Figures’ Gallery at Valencia’

View the digital catalog online now!

Read More

Round and Round: The Carousel Canvas by Jermaine Saunders
February 2 – May 22, 2024
Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library, 18601 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91351

Santa Clarita Arts is excited to present “Round and Round: The Carousel Canvas,” a solo exhibition by Jermaine Saunders. This exhibition will be on view February 2nd through May 22, 2024 at the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library. Saunders’ exhibition is a profound satirical exploration of mass media, encapsulating the evolving dynamics of landscapes within our modern society.

Jermaine Saunders, through digital three dimensional artwork , steps beyond the mere depiction of reality, crafting intricate illusions that invite viewers to traverse into the realm of imagination. His artwork challenges conventional landscape interpretations, urging a contemplation of spectacle and manipulation. In this presentation, Saunders employs the carousel—a symbol of perpetual motion and childhood whimsy—as a metaphorical canvas to provoke and redefine the spectator’s engagement with familiar scenes. “Round and Round: The Carousel Canvas” promises to be a visually arresting experience that juxtaposes playfulness with a piercing critique of the landscapes we navigate, both real and constructed.

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged after the show ends on May 22, 2024.
Jermaine Saunders | jermaine@jaieart.com | www.jaieart.com |@Jaieart

Q&A with Jermaine Saunders

Hi Jermaine, thank you for so much for exhibiting your artwork with us at the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library. Tell us, where do you find inspiration for your artwork?
I find inspiration in my travels, drawing from the diverse cultures, landscapes, and people I encounter. Everyday life provides a constant source of inspiration, with its myriad of experiences and interactions. Nostalgia also plays a significant role, as I reflect on past memories and emotions, extracting creativity from the rich tapestry of my personal history.

What is the purpose or goal of your work?
The purpose of my work is to express and convey my personal inner emotions through art-making. By delving into my own thoughts and feelings, I aim to create pieces that resonate with authenticity and evoke a connection with others. My goal is to offer a glimpse into the depth of human emotion, fostering a shared understanding and appreciation for the complexity of the human experience through the medium of art.

Do you have any tips for other artists who are just starting out?
My advice to fellow artists who are just starting out is to simply begin without waiting for the perfect time or circumstances. The act of starting itself is a crucial step in the creative journey. While it’s important not to copy other artists, observe and learn from their techniques, allowing yourself to be inspired. Explore inspiration not only within your own medium but also across various artistic disciplines, as diverse influences can enrich your creative perspective. Remember, the journey of art is as much about exploration and growth as it is about the final masterpiece.

SCVTV.com: Jermaine Saunders Explores Modern Landscapes in Exhibit ‘Round and Round: The Carousel Canvas’

View the digital catalog online now!

Read More

The Joshua Tree Chronicles AI Images by Edwin Vasquez
February 6 – April 1, 2024
Reception: March 21, 7-10pm
The MAIN, 24266 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321

The City of Santa Clarita is excited to announce the upcoming exhibition, “The Joshua Tree Chronicles AI Images,” by artist Edwin Vasquez. This multidisciplinary series, running from February 6 through April 1, with a special reception on March 21 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., delves deep into the existential narrative of Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia), a symbol of endurance in the arid landscape of the southwestern United States.

Edwin Vasquez, through his AI-generated images, brings a new perspective on the plight of Joshua Tree in the Antelope Valley. His work is a poignant commentary on the ecological challenges faced by this iconic tree, including climate change, habitat loss, wildfires, and human activities.

“The Joshua Tree Chronicles AI Images” is more than an exhibition; it’s a journey through the possible futures of these majestic trees. Vasquez’s AI-generated images offer a glimpse into worlds where the fate of the Joshua Tree isn’t left to chance. The series includes dynamic videography, enhancing the narrative with visual sequences that evoke empathy and awareness about the urgent need for conservation.

The exhibition is an invitation to embark on a contemplative journey, exploring the resilience and struggles of Joshua Tree as a reflection of broader ecological crisis. Join us at The Main for this exhibition that blends art and environmental advocacy, encouraging us to confront our collective responsibility towards natures.

To schedule a private viewing of the artwork, please contact Jeff Barber JBARBER@santa-clarita.com. 

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged after the show ends on April 1, 2024.
Edwin Vasquez | repollo98@att.net | www.edwinvasquez.net

Q&A with Edwin Vasquez

Hi Edwin, thank you for exhibiting with the City of Santa Clarita. Tell us, what motivates you to create?
As an artist and writer, I want to leave a legacy for future generations to come. As an immigrant I want to create art that talks about important issues, so future artists can continue speaking on behalf of those who have no voice.

What these do you pursue in your art?
At the beginning I focused on the social political issues affecting my community and as much as I want to create something different, politics are always the main cause of the problems affecting our country. Even in this series of the Joshua Tree, some politicians voted against the laws protecting this trees because they argued there is not space to build in the desert.

What is your favorite piece of work that you’ve created?
It is very difficult to select one. Perhaps the most meaningful was a collage I made during the lockdown in 2020 entitled New World Fashion which I showed at the Brand 48. The art piece won the Associates Award.

How do you come up with ideas for new pieces?
I read and write a lot, and often, a word or a phrase lets me think of the possibility of making a series of paintings. With artificial intelligence it has become easier to explore those ideas because I can write a prompt and have almost instant images that I can use as a reference for future work.

What memorable responses have you had to your work?
For these project, I received a grant from MHR Foundation for Artists; Dr. Betty Ann Brown wrote an essay about my work; Art writer Genie Davis wrote a review of my work; and UCLA Chicano Studies selected my project to kickstart their art shows. Some awards I have received are listed on my website edwinvasquez.net

 

 

 

HTML Video embed

SCVTV.com: Finding Art: The Joshua Tree Chronicles AI Images by Edwin Vasquez

HTML Video embed

SCVTV.com: Edwin Vasquez Interview

Read More

The Beauty of Stillness
January 16 – April 24, 2024
Old Town Newhall Library, 24500 Main St. Santa Clarita, CA 91321

The City of Santa Clarita is delighted to announce “The Beauty of Stillness,” a contemplative art exhibition at the Old Town Newhall Library. The exhibition features artwork by artists from Santa Clarita and the Greater Los Angeles area, and will be on view from January 16 through April 24, 2024. “The Beauty of Stillness” is a curated selection of original pieces in various mediums, each exploring the profound depth and silent power of stillness. The exhibition is a homage to the moments of pause and the introspective peace we find in the spaces between movement. Through their artwork, artists invite viewers to slow down, to reflect, and to find solace in the stillness that resides within and around us.

Exhibiting Artists: A.S. Ashley, Bahram Kafai, Brian Nieman, Bryan Stewart, Cheryl Calo, David Zumsteg, Elizabeth Chislett, Frank Rock, Jennifer Van, Lana Dandan, Maria Teplova, Marina Claire, Mark Foster, Michael Montemayor, Shan Li, Sydney Inez, Tamara Khachatrian, Trudy Callahan, Zhongxu Chen

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged by the artist after the show ends on March 24, 2024.

Image Credit: Michael Maloney, Bonsai Moonrise, Photograph on metal, 16″ x 24″

SCVTV.com: Finding Art: Experience the Serenity of ‘The Beauty of Stillness’ at the Old Town Newhall Library

View the digital catalog online now!

Read More

Transcendence: Breaking Boundaries
January 12 – March 6, 2024
First Floor Gallery located at Santa Clarita City Hall
23920 Valencia Blvd #120, Valencia, CA 91355

The City of Santa Clarita is thrilled to announce the opening of its latest art exhibition, “Transcendence: Breaking Boundaries,” at the First Floor Gallery within Santa Clarita’s City Hall. This showcase will run from January 12 through March 6, 2024, with a special reception event planned for Friday, January 19, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Curated with the intent to push beyond the expected, “Transcendence: Breaking Boundaries” showcases a diverse range of artworks by artists from Santa Clarita and the Greater Los Angeles area. This exhibition, which spans a diverse array of mediums, delves into the theme of transcendence, challenging the confines of conventional expression, and societal norms and perceptions. Each piece is a testament to the artist’s journey beyond the ordinary, inviting viewers to engage in an introspective dialogue. From the deeply personal to the widely societal, these works collectively beckon viewers to embrace new perspectives.

Please join the City for an evening to discuss the featured artwork and get to know the artists behind the original artworks on Friday, January 19 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the First Floor Gallery. Enjoy light refreshments and live music throughout the evening.

Exhibiting Artists: Andrea Abler, Ashleigh Abrams, Bahram Kafai, Dale Voelker, Daryl Bibicoff, Elizabeth Souza, Jennie E. Park, Jennifer Van, Jodie Riley, Kacie Lyn Martinez, Larry Richardson, Mark Foster, Mikey Nott, Morgan Grimes, Neil Rivas, Nicole Rose Gelormino, Norm Ellis, Renee Victor, Sandy Lajer, Siqi ‘Frances’ Fan, Yuang Li

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged by the artist after the show ends on March 6, 2024.

To learn more about “Transcendence: Breaking Boundaries” and upcoming art opportunities with the City of Santa Clarita, please contact Stephanie Jacinto at sjacinto@santa-clarita.com.

Image Credit: Kacie Lyn Martinez, The Discomfort of Hope, Digital Collage, 12″ x 18″

HTML Video embed

SCVTV.com: Finding Art: Transcendence: Breaking Boundaries

Read More

Inside, a Shape by Sophia Wolfe

December 18, 2023 – January 31, 2024

Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library
18601 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91351

Santa Clarita Arts is thrilled to unveil our upcoming exhibition at the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library, “Inside, a Shape,” featuring the artwork of interdisciplinary artist Sophia Wolfe. The exhibition will be on view from December 18, 2023 to January 31, 2024.

The exhibition receives its title from the featured artwork, which is a large panel piece composed of eight canvases in varying sizes. This work invites viewers into a world where the boundaries between reality, dreams, and nature blur, challenging our perceptions of the world and our place within it.

Sophia Wolfe, a Southern California-based artist known for her work in illustration, painting, textiles, experimental video, and narrative film, invites us to explore her experience as a young woman navigating the intricate tapestry of existence. Her art resonates with the interplay of science and dreams, solitude and intimacy. From an early age, Wolfe has been captivated by the realm of dreams, meticulously documenting her own dreamscapes. Her artistic journey delves into the inner psyche, seeking to decipher the psychology and neurology that underlie these enigmatic experiences. Through visual distortion and depictions of nature, the artwork invites viewers to contemplate the dual experience of observing the world and being observed.

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged after the show ends on January 31, 2024.
Sophia Wolfe | sophiawolfestudio@gmail.com | www.sophiawolfestudio.com | @sophiawolfestudio

For more information about upcoming art opportunities with the City of Santa Clarita, please contact Stephanie Jacinto at sjacinto@santa-clarita.com.

Q&A with Sophia Wolfe

Sophia, thank you for exhibiting your artwork with us at the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library. Tell us, what themes do you pursue in your art?
Sophia: My art showcases my experience navigating reality as a young woman, discovering connections between science and dreams, solitude and intimacy.

How do you come up with ideas for new pieces with those themes in mind?
Sophia: I spend a lot of time outside, admiring our world. Nature has many lessons to teach us. Non-fiction books are an another great source for inspiration. Some of my favorites are Art and Physics by Leonard Shlain, Einstein, Picasso by Arthur Miller, The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben, and The Secret Knowledge of Water by Craig Childs.

Yes, I can see that inspiration coming through in your paintings. Can you tell us a little bit about the texture in your paintings?
Sophia: I am incredibly excited about the textures and colors achieved within my piece, Inside, a Shape. I used a meticulous layering technique, applying dozens of translucent passes of colors atop one another to achieve the optical illusion of a single color. These translucent layers are incredibly thick, building up to create a tactile and visually engaging texture. Objects closer to the viewer have thicker applications of this technique.

What would you say is the purpose or goal of your work?
Sophia: I find learning about our world to be incredibly fun and satisfying. My artwork serves as a way for me to question and experiment. In Inside, a Shape, I explore what it means to see and how it feels to be looked at. For this piece, I focused on exploring the qualities of light, color, and optical distortions.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received as an artist?
Sophia: Find a place you trust and then try trusting it for a while – Sister Corita Kent

 

Read More

Please Take A Look by Siqi (Frances) Fan
December 8, 2023 – March 13, 2024
Canyon Country Community Center, 18410 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita, CA 91351

The City of Santa Clarita is excited to announce the upcoming exhibition, “Please Take A Look,” featuring the remarkable work of artist Siqi (Frances) Fan. The exhibition will be on view from December 8, 2023, through March 13, 2024 at the Canyon Country Community Center, offering the community an opportunity to explore the photographs and cyanotypes of Siqi Fan.

“Please Take A Look” delves into the nuanced and thought-provoking artwork of Siqi Fan, whose creative journey has transitions from personal introspections to a compelling exploration of social and cultural dynamics. Influenced by themes of democracy, freedom, and capitalism, Fan’s art serves as a canvas for the examination of the intersection of Eastern-Asian traditions and Western ideologies.

This exhibition offers visitors a glimpse into Fan’s multifaceted identity, mirroring the clash of cultures and beliefs that have shaped her perspective. Drawing inspiration from Lucien Lévy-Bruhl’s concept of the ‘primitive’ personality, Fan critically examines the persistence of certain mindsets in her native China, particularly those concerning gender roles and patriarchal influences on diverse identities.

“Please Take A Look” takes viewers on a visual journey through a series of photographs that reveal the artist’s various personas. These striking images unveil the complexities of balancing multiple identities in a society where the LGTBQ community faces unique challenges in expressing themselves authentically.

Siqi Frances Fan, born in 1998, holds a BFA in Photography & Video from the School of Visual Arts and is currently pursuing an MFA in Photography and Media at the California Institute of the Arts.

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged after the show ends on March 13, 2024.
Siqi (Frances) Fan |  francesfsq2016@gmail.com | www.francesfsq.com

For more information about upcoming art opportunities with the City of Santa Clarita, please contact Stephanie Jacinto at sjacinto@santa-clarita.com.

Q&A with Siqi (Frances) Fan

Frances, thank you for exhibiting your artwork with us at the Canyon Country Community Center. Tell us, where do you find the inspiration for your artwork?
Frances: My inspiration primarily stems from daily life, drawing from various sources such as social media, books, personal experiences, and interactions with people. I find inspiration by observing, experiencing, and interpreting the world in my own unique way, often uncovering beauty and significance in the ordinary.

You are currently enrolled in the MFA Photography and Media program at CalArts, right? Do you have any tips for artists who are just starting out?
Frances: Communication with other artists or people who are in the art industry is the first tip that I will suggest. Sometimes, speaking out to others will get my ideas into shape. Enroll in art classes, workshops, or courses at local art schools or online platforms. This not only enhances my skills but also exposes me to instructors who could become mentors.

You have cyanotypes and inkjet prints in this exhibition. Do you plan each piece out before you start, or do you let each piece “take shape” as you go?
Frances: My creative process involves a blend of planning and spontaneous expression. Initially, I lay out  some plans or brainstorm ideas, but I relish the process of letting the piece evolve organically. The beauty of analogy photography is the combination of accident and control. “The accident” can be beautiful but also “dangerous” if you don’t control it. As an artist, it’s important to know how to free your piece but also control it.

How has your art changed since you first started creating it?
Frances: I started by painting and drawing. When I was 15, I had my first film camera and went to the darkroom for the first time. I was obsessed with photography, especially analogy photos. During my undergraduate study in New York, I studied art history and learned different kinds of mediums. After digging more into contemporary art, I found that that concept is the most important part of my work. Right now, I am open to all of the mediums and art forms.

Can you walk us through your creative process for these specific bodies of work?
Frances: I observed the details in my daily routine and thought about my life experiences critically. I picked up some points from a personal perspective and did research about the content that I was interested in. I always ask three questions: What am I interested in? Why am I interested in it? And How can I present it? If I can answer these questions immediately, I know what to do with my project.

HTML Video embed

SCVTV.com: Finding Art: Please Take A Look by Siqi Frances Fan

Read More

15 Minutes of Fame by Lynnda Rakos

November 28 – February 5, 2024
Reception: December 21, 2023, 7-10pm

The MAIN
24266 Main Street
Santa Clarita, CA 91321

The vibrant and dynamic artistry of Montreal-born, Los-Angeles-based artist Lynnda Rakos takes center stage in her solo exhibition titled “15 Minutes of Fame.” Set to captivate art enthusiasts and ignite conversation, the exhibition will be on view from November 28, 2023 through February 5, 2024 at The Main in Downtown Newhall. A reception will be held on December 21, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Lynnda Rakos’ art is a compelling blend of color, imagination, and social commentary. With a penchant for using images of celebrity personas with overlayed text, she crafts vibrant and unexpected portrayals that challenge traditional perceptions. Her work captures the essence of mid-century art, vibrant graphic imagery, and the ever-evolving sensibility of pop culture.

“15 Minutes of Fame” promises to be an exploration of the fleeting nature of celebrity culture and the transformative power of art. Rakos’ bold and vivid images beckon viewers to consider the intersection of fame, identity, and society. Through her art, she invites audiences to contemplate the stories behind the headlines and the people behind the personas.

The exhibition reception on December 21 is an occasion not to be missed, offering attendees the change to engage directly with the artist and delve into the inspiration behind each piece. This event is open to the public, providing a platform for meaningful conversation and connections.

To schedule a private viewing of the artwork, please contact Jeff Barber JBARBER@santa-clarita.com. 

How to Purchase Artwork:
For inquiries and to purchase artwork, please contact the artist directly.
Delivery will be arranged after the show ends on February 5, 2024.
Lynnda Rakos | spacewoman99@aol.com | www.lynndarakos.com

For more information about upcoming art opportunities with the City of Santa Clarita, please contact Stephanie Jacinto at sjacinto@santa-clarita.com.

Q & A with Lynnda Rakos

Who are your biggest influences?
I love Mark Ryden, Kehinde Wiley and Mickalene Thomas.  I also love the fashion brand Gucci and their marketing campaigns.  These are artists with visionary concepts that I believe are truly ingenious and absolute perfection in their execution.

What themes do you pursue in your art?
I like to put celebrities in unique and unexpected settings.  I love the personalities of animals and how we imagine what they are thinking.  I sometimes use words that provoke our imagination.

How do you overcome creative blocks?
I do other things like making jewelry, hand made gifts. I also love creating something new in the kitchen that I can later enjoy. I look through fashion and interior design magazines for colors and ideas.

How has your artwork changed since you first started creating it?
My work has changed immensely. In art school I loved pen and ink, and was deeply influenced by old children’s book illustrations. Then it was Robots, cartoons and mid century styles. Now I’m into pop art and mixed media.

What is your favorite piece of artwork that you have created?
It seems like it’s always the newest piece I create, but if I had to pick one it would be Nairobi Beauty. I love the way it turned out.

HTML Video embed

SCVTV.com: Finding Art: 15 Minutes of Fame by Lynnda Rakos

Read More
Santa Clarita Arts & Events Division
23920 Valencia Blvd #120, Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 250-3787   ·   aeo@santa-clarita.com

Stay in the know with Santa Clarita Arts! Subscribe to our email newsletter.
Go to Top