Contact: David Yoshitomi, Arts & Culture Manager, david.yoshitomi@ventura.org, (805) 662–6706
VENTURA, Calif. – In recognition of Asian-American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, the County of Ventura and the Ventura County Arts Council, in collaboration with PINAYSPHERE, who curated the collection, are hosting the “Flourish and Flow” art exhibition. Open through June 7, 2023 in the Atrium Gallery, located in the County of Ventura Government Center in the Hall of Administration, this is the first AAPI artist exhibition hosted by the County.
According to Jen Benitez, founder of PINAYSPHERE, a non-profit organization focused on fostering pre-colonial mentalities and art within Pina/xy youth, the goal of the exhibition is to “highlight AAPI voices that are often overlooked, building bonds that allow AAPI voices to be seen.”
Over 60 pieces of artwork from AAPI artists are featured in the exhibition. The artists range in age from 17-52 years-old and are based both here in Ventura County and across the United States. A variety of artworks will be displayed including, but not limited to, paintings, digital drawings, mixed media collages, photographs, and 3D sculptural pieces.
Approximately 3,000 citizens and 1,200 employees pass through the Atrium Gallery daily. The location and opportunity provide AAPI artists a way to gain exposure and expand their portfolios, especially those who have yet to exhibit their work.
Unique AAPI stories are the foundation for each piece in the “Flourish & Flow” exhibition. Artists, such as Kenneth Tan, whose mixed media project “Lola x Kenneth Collaboration” is artwork created in special collaboration with his grandmother, or “lola”, Crescenciana Tanwas.
“When Lola passed, she left behind her paintings, and I decided to finish everything she started,” said Tan. “I promised.”
The public is invited to experience the exhibit, which will culminate with a closing reception scheduled for June 7, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. The reception will feature an opportunity to meet some of the exhibiting artists and participate in an artist talk.
The Hall of Administration is located at 800 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura, CA, 93009. It is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
