Vita Art Center
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Vita Art Center
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SponsorsLocation
Vita Art Center is located at 28 W.Main St., Ventura, CA 93001
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About the Exhibition For ArtWalk VenturaVENTURA COUNTY – 150TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITS
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 23 from 5-7pm Ventura Art Walk: Sat, Sep 23 11am-7pm, Sun, Sep 24 11am-7pm Exhibit Dates: September 23 thru November 11, 2023 Community workshop on Sunday, September 24 time to be announced • Ventura Vistas: A Tribute to 150 Years of Natural Beauty Meredith Brooks Abbott, Connie Jenkins, Jennifer Moses, and Gail Pidduck • Ventura, Hilary Baker • Ventura County Fair, Ray Harris • Petersen Pottery by Sara Carlson • Moment of Queer Joy, Wren Stepan • Ventura County,150 years, mural by Vita Art Center Teens Discover the essence of Ventura County's 150-year journey through a series of curated exhibits at the Vita Art Center. The anniversary celebration features six distinct showcases, each offering a unique perspective on Ventura's rich artistic and cultural heritage. "Ventura Vistas: A Tribute to 150 Years of Natural Beauty" presents a collection of landscape artworks by accomplished artists Meredith Brooks Abbott, Connie Jenkins, Jennifer Moses, and Gail Pidduck. Hilary Baker's "Ventura" explores the evolving urban and rural habitats of local wildlife, while Sara Carlson's ceramics reflect the tactile aesthetics of the region. Ray Harris's "Ventura County Fair" captures the spirit of a cherished annual event, and teen artist Wren Stepan's "Queer Joy" provides an insightful glimpse into the county's diverse identity. The exhibit culminates with a mural conceived and executed by Vita Art Center Teens, encapsulating the collective memory of Ventura County. Each exhibit contributes a nuanced perspective, collectively paying homage to the county's dynamic narrative as seen through the lens of its artists from the local region. Ventura Vistas: A Tribute to 150 Years of Natural Beauty Meredith Brooks Abbott, Connie Jenkins, Jennifer Moses, and Gail Pidduck We are delighted to present the exhibition "Ventura Vistas: A Tribute to 150 Years of Natural Beauty" in honor of Ventura County's sesquicentennial anniversary. This exceptional showcase brings together the artistic prowess of renowned artists Meredith Brooks Abbott, Connie Jenkins, Jennifer Moses, and Gail Pidduck. Through a captivating collection of artworks, the exhibit will seamlessly weave together the splendid tapestry of Ventura County's landscapes and nature, paying homage to its rich heritage and enduring allure. From sweeping vistas to intricate portrayals of local flora and fauna, this exhibition will immerse visitors in the breathtaking essence of Ventura County. Join us in celebrating 150 years of natural beauty that have shaped this remarkable region into what it is today. Hilary Baker | Ventura Hilary Baker's thought-provoking exhibit is a part of the Ventura County 150th Anniversary celebration at the Vita Art Center. In her ongoing series titled "Predators," Baker eloquently channels her apprehensions regarding the gradual erosion of natural habitats for local wildlife, both in urban and rural settings. The animals take center stage in her compositions, their penetrating gazes capturing the viewer's attention. The confrontation between the creatures and the observer is unflinching, evoking a powerful connection that mirrors the unyielding essence of the past. The distance between the viewer and the subjects only adds to the complexity – a poignant reminder of the fragile equilibrium between mankind and nature. As we immerse ourselves in Baker's work, we are invited to contemplate our role in this intricate narrative and ponder whether the distance is a safe vantage point or an urgent call to action. Ray Harris | Ventura County Fair We are excited to mark the remarkable 150-year journey of Ventura County with an exhibition showcasing the Ventura County Fair, captured through the oil paintings of artist Ray Harris. Through Harris's brushwork, the vibrant spirit and cherished traditions of the fair come to life on canvas. The exhibition captures the energy of the fair, the kaleidoscope of colors from the rides and booths, and the palpable joy that fills the air during this annual celebration. As we gather to honor Ventura County's sesquicentennial, Harris's work serves as a vivid tribute to the enduring magic and sense of community that the Ventura County Fair has brought to generations of residents and visitors alike. Wren Stepan | Moments of Queer Joy We proudly present the exhibition "Queer Joy" featuring the artworks of emerging teen artist Wren Stepan. This collection offers a glimpse into the artist's world, where Ventura's spaces of happiness and camaraderie come to life. "Queer Joy" is a visual narrative of the artist's personal odyssey, capturing the profound connections he shares with his friends amidst Ventura's cherished locales. As a passionate creator from a young age, Wren's artistic journey has been nurtured by Vita Art Center, and extended through Ventura High School's art program, and now continuing as he prepares to embark on his studies at Ventura County Community College in the upcoming Fall. We invite you to immerse yourself in the effervescent spirit of "Queer Joy," a testament to the transformative power of art and the enduring bonds of community. Petersen Pottery by Sara Carlson Raised in Ventura, Sara has made a profession from her first passion, digging in the mud. Sara holds an industrial design degree from Pasadena’s Art Center College of Design on a portfolio scholarship. While at Art Center, she was selected to join Danish design team to execute the first “INDEX: Design to Improve Life” event. This inter-disciplinary, international design event is still going strong. In 2007 she was selected to showcase her concept furniture, “elebo” at Salone Satellite in Milan, Italy. “Ventura County,150 years” Mural by Vita Art Center Teens This collaborative masterpiece stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity within our youth, offering a timeless reflection on our county's journey to this significant milestone. About the VenueSince opening the doors in 2007, the Vita Art Center has stayed true to its mission to engage the public in the arts through education, exhibits, and events. Vita Art Center offers local youth a safe and nurturing environment during their least structured and, therefore, highest-risk times: after school, on weekends, and during the summer months. Consistent, quality art education and mentoring positively impacts youths' social development, academic achievement, and vocational opportunities. Studies shows that when youth have substantial engagements with the arts they are more likely to go to college, get good grades, and obtain a degree; to hold a full-time job. Help our community and our children.
EDUCATION: Whether you are looking for a creative outlet or are a working artist, Vita Art Center has classes for all levels of experience and ages. We provide high-quality enrichment experiences in the visual arts for children, teens, and adults. Professional artists and instructors teach classes in a wide variety of media and subject-matter, with plenty of classes to choose from. To ensure personalized instruction, we limit enrollment to 10-15 students per course. IN SCHOOL PROGRAMS We are committed to supporting our local schools by providing arts programs to K-12 students. Our Schools visual arts programs integrate visual arts with core CA education standards to help children succeed in school. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR TEACHERS: The Vita Art Center offers professional development programs for educators seeking to increase their knowledge of the arts, and to improve their skills so they can provide quality arts education for students. www.vitaartcenter.com |