-
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART PRESENTS LANDMARK EXHIBITION SURVEYING THE ISLAMIC ARTISTIC TRADITIONS OF MOROCCO
The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) unveiled Splendours of the Atlas: A Voyage Through Morocco’s Heritage, on view until 8 March 2025. Organized as part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, the exhibition presents around 200 objects to tell a multifaceted story of Moroccan history, society, artistic expressions, and how they continue to animate the nation’s cultures today. The opening reception was attended by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Chairperson of Qatar Museums and the Years of Culture initiative, and Princess Lalla Hasna of Morocco.
Splendours of the Atlas includes loans from Moroccan institutions including the National Foundation of Museums and the National Library of Rabat that have never before been shown in Qatar. Previously unseen works from the collections of Qatar Museums, MIA, and the future Lusail Museum are also on display. Splendours of the Atlas is curated by Dr. Mounia Chekhab-Abudaya, MIA Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs.
Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani said, “We are extraordinarily fortunate to partner with institutions across Morocco for our Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, which will greatly expand the ability of Qataris and those living in Qatar to gain insight into the grand Islamic traditions of our neighbor in North Africa. Our shared commitment to scholarship, scientific discovery, and artistic excellence has created a fertile basis for this year’s rich Year of Culture program.”
Years of Culture spearheads long-lasting cultural partnerships between Qatar and other nations. It exists to promote respect and understanding among diverse cultures.
Splendours of the Atlas is organized thematically:
- “Faces of Morocco: Landscapes and Society” will immerse visitors in a mosaic of photographs by Bruno Barbey, Irving Penn, Lalla Essaydi, Mous Lamrabat, and Mounir Raji.
- “The Soul of Morocco: Kings, Saints, and Scholars” delves into Moroccan dynastic history.
- “Threads of Tradition: Morocco’s Artisanal Mastery” explores the pivotal role of crafts in Morocco’s many cultures.
- “Traditional Sounds of Morocco” presents musical instruments that are used to create everything from the Andalusian melodies of the cities to the gnawa music of the South.
- The final section is an ode to contemporary Moroccan craftsmanship. If features seven commissioned works by Moroccan artist Noureddine Amir, which respond to traditional crafts while reinventing them as new abstract works that hang from the gallery’s ceiling.
-
Dreamscape: Beyond the Veil. Reception, Thursday, November 21, 4 – 7 pm at San Diego Mesa College Art Gallery
San Diego Mesa College Art Gallery presents
Dreamscape: Beyond the VeilNovember 18 – December 12, 2024
Reception: Thursday, November 21, 4 – 7 PM,
Art Gallery, FA 103FREE and OPEN to the public.
Free Parking during receptions in Lot # 1.
Park in STAFF spaces ONLY.
Image Credit: Designed by Makena Jackson, Museum Studies student,Fall 2024
Can’t join for the events?
Visit us during our regular gallery hours:
Monday through Thursday, 12-5 pm.
Closed Thanksgiving Week: November 25 – 29, 2024San Diego Mesa College,
Fine Arts Building, Art Gallery, FA103
7250 Mesa College Dr. SD 92111
Closest entrance is through Marlesta/GeneseeParticipating Artists: Adan Abaquin-Brown, Luis Alderete, Gabrielle Berens, Beate Bermann-Enn, Abigail Brown, Elizabeth Brown, Sophia Ciuffa , Annie Claflin, Krista Cuellar, Gabriela Ponce Curlango, Eva D’Amico, Alexis Deming, Meghan DeRoma, Matthew Devoys, Sheena Rae Dowling, Dana Edwards, Christopher Ferreria, Patricia Frischer, Gal Crew (Jennifer Armer, Gaby Espina, Caiti Myth), Arie Galles, Junko Glawe, Jeff Kahn, John Carlos Keasler, Natalia Kozlova, Braulio Lam, Sami Leon, Evan Lopez, Rick Macaw, Evie Maher, Kamaal Martin, Isa Guadalupe Medina ,Teresa Mill, Chris Reilly, Michelle Montjoy, Alejandro Morales, Caiti Myth, James Nelson, Dakota Noot, christian olid-ramirez, Philip Petrie, Lulu Yueming Qu, Josie Rodriguez, Kayah Rybar, Alyanah Santos, Sandra Segovia ,Cheryl Tall, Alyssa Marielle Villagracia, Bryan Tipton, Ell Treese, Christopher Tucker , Patricia Valero, Kelsey Worth, Jessica Yambao
“A Dream of Earth’s Hope” by Lulu Yueming QuThe San Diego Mesa College Art Gallery cordially invites you to experience Dreamscape: Beyond the Veil, a student-curated exhibition. Human beings have always been fascinated with the mysteries of the subconscious and the visions that lurk beneath the surface of logic and reason. The Museum Studies class has curated an exhibition featuring 54 talented local artists whose work is inspired by dreams in all their forms.
Join us for the reception on Thursday, November 21, 4 – 7 pm to participate in a thought-provoking interactive piece by artist group Gal Crew. As guests enter the space they will encounter What Drifts Through Your Dreamscape?, a mesmerizing, multifaceted installation that explores whimsical and unsettling realms. This imaginative work creates a dynamic dialogue between light and dark, engaging the viewer from the moment they approach the gallery window.
Sheena Rae Dowling’s A Guide to Becoming Water was inspired by the painter’s own dreams, which she has cataloged over the course of 25 years. Invoking her recurring nightmares of the ocean, Dowling scrapes the edges of her psyche for the surreal imagery she delivers to the canvas. The artist highlights the cyclical nature and mystical properties of the sea, contrasting the terror and the beauty of the deep. Meanwhile, Patricia Frischer visualizes her dreams in a series of painted vinyl records – full of color and contrast that give a glimpse into the jubilant yet mysterious world of her subconscious. Hot-air balloons carry a silhouetted stranger who presides over a landscape of rushing seas and plateaus, a shadowy yet constant presence. Both artists pose questions that we often ask ourselves after dreaming: Who is that faceless figure? What is that bizarre place? And, perhaps most mysterious of all, why does this dream keep coming back?
Philip Petrie and christian olid-ramirez confront unsettling nightmares with their work. Petrie’s somber canvases, Approaching and Departure Mountain, mirror intriguing and disturbing dreams. christian olid-ramirez’s large oil paintings from his series The Gloaming depict a fictional “desert of the mind” –a mental sandbox exploring the darkest thoughts and impulses of the human soul. Bounty renders a pile of blocky severed limbs placed before a pyre. Haunted and surreal, these works dip into the shadowy recesses of the mind, challenging viewers to explore paths rarely walked in daylight.
Dreamscape: Beyond the Veil invites viewers to contemplate how dreams shape our understanding and experience of the world. Highlighting symbolic explorations of the natural and mythical, this exhibition promises a captivating encounter with the world of the unconscious. This intriguing and engaging exhibition was developed under the guidance of Professor Alessandra Moctezuma and Gallery Coordinator Jenny Armer.
Gallery Hours: M, T, W, TH 12 – 5 p.m. (Or by appointment.) Closed Fridays, Weekends & Holidays. For additional information, please visit: https://www.sdmesa.edu/art-gallery or call (619) 388-2829.
-
Whistler’s Audain Art Museum Presents a Ground-Breaking Celebration of Women Carvers on the Northwest Coast
Curve! Women Carvers on the Northwest Coast celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of women to the rich tradition of carving wood and argillite on the Northwest Coast. This ground-breaking exhibition at the Audain Art Museum (AAM) in Whistler will showcase over 125 remarkable works that intertwine traditional knowledge with artistic innovation.
‘Curve!’ seeks to celebrate and elevate the contributions of women in a traditionally male-dominated field.Co-curated by 2023 Audain Prize Winner Dana Claxton and AAM Director & Chief Curator Curtis Collins, this exhibition will display an impressive collection of masks, panels, poles and bowls on loan from public and private collections across North America. Curve! will feature 14 women carvers active from the 1950s to the present day, highlighting their pivotal roles within the indigenous carving traditions of British Columbia.
Ellen Neel (1916-1966), Freda Diesing (1925-2002), and Doreen Jensen (1933-2009), three iconic artists on the Northwest Coast, serve as historic context for this extensive exhibition. Their contributions paved the way for subsequent generations of carvers and left an indelible mark on carving in this province. Susan Point, Dale Marie Campbell, and Marianne Nicolson represent a group of highly accomplished senior artists, while Marika Echachis Swan, Morgan Asoyuf, Cori Savard, Stephanie Anderson, Veronica Waechter, Arlene Ness, Cherish Alexander, and Melanie Russ represent emerging/mid-career talents that continue to push carving traditions forward.
Dana Claxton says, “Curve! brings together artists whose practices sustain cultural ways of being in the world. From spirit to matter – these magnificent and magical art works are tied to the ancients.”
Curtis Collins, Director & Chief Curator of the AAM, explains, “The Museum is honoured to be hosting such a comprehensive exhibition that explores carving traditions among indigenous women from communities throughout the Northwest Coast.”
Accompanying the exhibition will be a hard-cover book issued by Figure 1 Publishers in Vancouver. This publication features texts by Dana Claxton, Skeena Reece, and Marika Echachis Swan; and interviews with renowned artists Mary Anne Barkhouse and Dale Marie Campbell conducted by Curtis Collins. The book will document over 75 years of artistic production, complete with full-colour images of the works by the 14 featured artists.
Curve! Women Carvers on the Northwest Coast seeks to celebrate and elevate the contributions of women in a traditionally male-dominated field. This exhibition is made possible in part thanks to the support of Presenting Sponsor TD Bank Group (TD), and will be on display in Whistler from November 23, 2024, to May 5, 2025.
In addition to TD Bank Group (TD), this exhibition is supported by Major Sponsor the Audain Foundation, Publication Sponsor Dixon Mitchell, Government Partner BC Arts Council, Supporting Sponsor YP Heung Foundation, Additional Support from McCarthy Tetrault and Yosef Wosk Family Foundation, and Hotel Partner Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
About the Audain Art Museum
Established in 2016, the Museum was founded via a major philanthropic gift of Michael Audain and Yoshiko Karasawa. The Permanent Collection is focused on the art of British Columbia, exemplifying the richness of cultural difference in Canada. Highlights include hereditary Haida Chief James Hart’s The Dance Screen, an exceptional collection of historical and contemporary Indigenous art, a comprehensive selection of paintings by Emily Carr and a brilliant range of works by Vancouver’s photo-conceptualists. The Museum hosts numerous special exhibitions per year that feature artists and collections of national as well as international significance.
SOURCE Audain Art Museum
-
D is for Dogs: A Charming Alphabet Adventure for Little Dog Lovers
D is for Dogs is an engaging alphabet board book from the BabyLit series, illustrated by Greg Paprocki in his signature retro mid-century style. This delightful book introduces young readers to a range of dog breeds—from big and bold to small and snuggly—that they might encounter in their neighborhood or see on TV. Each page bursts with playful, vibrant illustrations, depicting athletic dogs running in the park, sleepy dogs dozing off, and even hungry pups enjoying a snack. The charm of Paprocki’s illustrations, which appeals to both kids and adults, makes this book a favorite for families.
Greg Paprocki is an award-winning illustrator, designer, and children’s book author, well-known for his detailed and expressive work. Since launching his ABC board book series with Gibbs Smith in 2016, he has captivated young audiences, selling over 750,000 copies worldwide. Beyond books, Paprocki collaborates with brands like Ravensburger and the Palm Springs store Just Fabulous, creating everything from puzzles to merchandise.
With D is for Dogs, Greg Paprocki brings a heartwarming and visually stunning experience to children learning the alphabet, making it a perfect gift for little dog lovers and their families.
-
Discover Ignacio Gana’s Gold Black Collection: A Fusion of Art, Elegance, and Symbolism
Ignacio Gana, the renowned Chilean-born, Miami-based artist who was honored as “Artist of the Year” by the Latin Grammy Awards in 2017, is making waves once again with his Gold Black Collection. This series of sculptures, inspired by the vibrant spirit of Miami, seamlessly blends sensuality, harmony, and elegance through its striking use of gold and black. The gold symbolizes luxury and prosperity, while the black represents depth and mystery, adding layers of sophistication and timelessness to the pieces.Are you interested in exploring stories related to high-end art and design for contemporary spaces? Interviews with Ignacio Gana are available upon request.Gana’s collection, particularly the standout piece “Flamingo Girl”—a bronze sculpture that symbolizes a journey of transformation and joy—offers rich narratives for features on elegant decor and the intersection of art and lifestyle. This is a significant piece for Gana as it marked a milestone in his career when it was installed in Miami’s prestigious Design District neighborhood. Gana explained that this is, “a work that speaks of change, of daring to leave the comfort zone, to jump into the pool in search of happiness, to have fun, to enjoy life, all with a bit of irony and humor.”Another prominent piece in the collection is “Peace Face” which is a striking and symbolic sculpture that features a stylized human face depicted with a serene and contemplative expression. The sculpture, composed of bronze, incorporates elements of geometric abstraction, such as fragmented sections and overlapping planes, adding depth and complexity to the piece.“Lucky Duck” is a playful and whimsical piece that embodies Ignacio Gana’s flair for combining humor with artistic elegance. Due to the quirky yet refined nature of this piece, the sculpture can be the perfect fit for almost any space. From contemporary homes, to children’s spaces, to corporate offices, this sculpture is certain to add a light-hearted element.About Ignacio Gana:Ignacio Gana is a renowned Chilean painter and sculptor. Each of Gana’s artworks has a strong narrative, representative of his imagination and appreciation of the human form and are showcased worldwide in open public spaces, museums, or private collections in individuals’ homes. His inspiration comes from life itself. Gana was selected as the “Artist of the Year” by the Latin Grammy Awards in 2017. For further information, visit ignaciogana.com. -
Spread Holiday Cheer Through Handwritten Connections with Postmark’d Studio’s Artisan Stationery Subscription
Is there anything quite like finding a handwritten letter from a loved one nestled in your mailbox? It’s a heartwarming reminder of the care and thought someone took to reach out. With the holidays upon us, Postmark’d Studio offers the perfect way to rekindle this timeless joy through its unique artisan stationery subscription. Each monthly parcel is thoughtfully curated with themed greeting cards, specialty postage, and more, ready to brighten someone’s day with the perfect mix of warmth and creativity.
Postmark’d Studio is a brand devoted to bringing people together through the beauty of handwritten communication. Their monthly subscription parcels feature an array of artisan-crafted cards, adorable stamps, and even gifts—designed to inspire you to reach out and create meaningful connections. For the holiday season, this subscription makes a truly thoughtful gift that keeps on giving month after month.
Postmark’d Studio offers four carefully designed subscription tiers, each filled with goodies for everyone, whether it’s a gift for a friend or a treat for yourself. Subscriptions start at just $20 and include a variety of options:
- Parcel Petite Gift Subscription ($20): Includes three themed cards and specialty postage.
- Parcel Gift Subscription ($29): Includes four themed cards, specialty postage, and one themed gift.
- Parcel Premium Gift Subscription ($34): Features five themed cards, specialty postage, one themed gift, and a little extra like a sticker or washi tape.
- Parcel Posh Gift Subscription ($43): The most deluxe parcel, it includes five themed cards, specialty postage, one themed gift, one extra item like a sticker or washi tape, and an additional posh gift.
From vintage-style postage to unique cards crafted by artists nationwide, each parcel provides everything needed to keep in touch in style. Every subscription arrives with enough postage, so your recipients will be ready to send their greetings off the moment they open their box. It’s a delightful surprise and a refreshing change from the usual holiday gift, allowing recipients to slow down, write thoughtful notes, and enjoy the charm of snail mail.
Founded by mompreneurs Kate and Allison, Postmark’d Studio is a labor of love for the written word. Their mission is to revive the joy of letter writing and help people reconnect with those who matter most. Kate and Allison’s dedication extends beyond business; it’s a family affair that inspires their children to understand the beauty of meaningful connections.
Choosing Postmark’d Studio this holiday season means giving more than a gift—it’s the opportunity to celebrate and cherish the small, heartfelt moments shared with others. Whether it’s a 1-month subscription for a friend or a full-year package for a stationery lover, Postmark’d Studio’s parcels promise a season filled with love, letters, and lasting connections.
