Heated Exchange: Contemporary Encaustics
Gallery 2 | Saturday, September 24 – Sunday, November 13, 2016

No longer entombed with the mummies, the ancient art of encaustic (hot wax) resonates in contemporary culture. The multi-dimensional surface, luminous color, and ethereal image layering unique to this once obsolete medium is now recognized both for its exquisite beauty and incredible versatility.

Featured work by local artists Angela Koenig, Josie Rodriguez, and Jiela Rufeh.

Jon Jaylo: All These Answers That May Never Come Our Way
Gallery 1 | Saturday, September 24 – Sunday, November 13, 2016

Showcasing 11 new paintings and several new drawings created specifically for display at the Center, Jaylo’s work has received global acclaim for its contemporary surrealist style.  The artist’s pieces reflect a parallel dream world where everything floats and dances in a contained universe inspired by poetry.

Living with Muertos / Viviendo con la Muerte
A Día de los Muertos Experience by Daniel F. Martinez
Tower Gallery | Saturday, September 24 – Sunday, November 13, 2016

Local artist Daniel F. Martinez reflected on 27 years of vibrant, multimedia art-making focused on reinventing, recycling, and honoring the past.  A special altar to late Chicana activist and wife of Cesar Chàvez, Helen Fabela Chàvez and her work with the United Farm Workers of America.

View pictures from our opening reception HERE

Museum Special Events

The Surrealist Sensibility | Lecture by Ariel Plotek, Ph.D. | October 20, 2016

Distinguished guest lecturer, Ariel Plotek, Ph.D, joined us from his post as Curator of Modern Art at the San Diego Museum of Art.  He described the tenets and history of the Surrealist art movement surrounded by the dreamscapes of contemporary artist, Jon Jaylo’s, solo exhibition, All These Answers That May Never Come Our Way.

Get it While it’s Hot: Encaustic Art with Josie Rodriguez | October 22, 2016

Local encaustic artist, Josie Rodriguez, taught a primer on the medium of encaustic (hot wax), demonstrated its technique, and guided our guests in creating their very own work!  Josie was a featured local artist in Heated Exchange: Contemporary Encaustics.