LEFT

On Friday, the 2019 Left Coast Annual Juried Exhibition opened at the Sanchez Art Center in Pacifica, California. Yesterday was the juror’s talk and gallery walk. Scott A. Shields, associate Director and Chief Curator of the Crocker Art Museum, discussed his selection process and impressive background. The experience offered meaningful insights and conversation!

From the venue’s website: “The mission of the Sanchez Art Center is to create community through art. The art center provides exhibitions by emerging and established California artists; education and outreach programs designed to make art accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds; and affordable studio space for up to 30 Bay Area artists…”

Curator Scott A. Shields shared fascinating information about the Crocker Art Museum. The institution’s collection started in the 1870’s and currently has over 24,000 pieces of art. Shields discussed his perspective on improving the representation of female artists. Currently on view, the museum displays 25% women artists compared to the 5% average. According to Women’s Health USA, 50.8% of the population is female. In the future, my hope is to see this same representation is all institutions.

*MY LIPS ARE SEALED*, Winifred van der Rijn.

*WHEN WE WERE ANIMALS*, Heather Hillard.

*MARTYR FROM THE LOWER BOTTOM*, Dance Doyle.

*99: WHO ARE THE ONE PERCENT?*, Colleen Sullivan.

Shields explained his vision for the 2019 Left Coast Annual Juried Exhibition. The call received an incredible 1,000 entries resulting in a final selection of 45 artists. The common theme explored “beauty and ugliness” along with “today and now.” Overall, the artworks speak to our current human condition and experience.

My two pieces WAR and PEACE were included. Artwork description: Lady Justice is a symbol of impartiality in our judicial system. Standing stoically with a scale in one hand and a sword in the other, she is blindfolded representing that power, status, or money has no influence. A standard braille sign becomes repurposed by altering its function. The art serves as a marker questioning how special interests have weakened the fundamental principles of democracy. Citizens must not blindly follow but question, organize, and demand the highest standards preserving truth and justice.