Celebrating Creativity and Community at the High Desert Open Arts Exhibition
In March 2022, the Victor Valley Museum, in partnership with Arts Connection – the Arts Council of San Bernardino County, hosted the much-anticipated High Desert Open Arts Exhibition. This event was a celebration of the artistic diversity and cultural richness of the High Desert. It brought together a diverse mix of artworks, ranging from photography and printmaking to painting, ceramics, and mixed media. The exhibition provided a unique platform for both emerging and established artists to share their stories, dedication, and craft with the community.
For me, this exhibition was particularly special as I had the honor of participating and was thrilled to receive the “Best in Drawing” award for my work, a charcoal drawing of James Hetfield of Metallica. To have it recognized in such a meaningful way at a venue like the Victor Valley Museum was a moment of immense pride and gratitude.
The Exhibition: A Showcase of Talent and Dedication
The High Desert Open Arts Exhibition was a testament to the incredible talent that resides within our community. Each piece displayed in the exhibition reflected the artist’s unique perspective, skill, story, and vision. From the meticulous craftsmanship of the printmaking pieces to the striking impact of the paintings, the exhibition offered a rich visual experience that resonated deeply with viewers.
The exhibition also featured live demonstrations, allowing visitors to witness the creative process firsthand. These demonstrations were not just educational but also deeply inspiring, as they offered a glimpse into the dedication and skill required to create such beautiful works of art. The event was further enriched by live music provided by Ray Brooks and engaging art activities for children, making it a truly inclusive and family-friendly experience.
The Organizers: A Heartfelt Thank You
Events like the High Desert Open Arts Exhibition don’t happen without the hard work and dedication of many individuals. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and express my gratitude to those who made this exhibition possible.
Theresa Polley-Shellcroft, a colleague of mine at Victor Valley College, played a pivotal role in organizing the exhibition. Theresa is an accomplished artist and educator with a passion for fostering creativity in others. As an art instructor at VVC, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside her, and her commitment to the arts is truly inspiring. Theresa’s influence and dedication were evident throughout the exhibition, from the curation of the artworks to the overall atmosphere of the event.
T. Faye Griffin, another key figure in the exhibition, is a multi-talented artist, writer, and producer. Her contributions to the arts are vast and varied, and she brings a wealth of experience and insight to any project she undertakes. Faye’s involvement in the High Desert Open Arts Exhibition helped elevate the event, ensuring that it was not just a showcase of talent but also a celebration of the creative spirit that drives us all.
Mary Vasquez is an exceptional printmaker, artist, and art teacher. Her work is characterized by its depth, emotion, and technical skill. Mary has a unique ability to convey complex ideas and emotions through her art, and her contributions to the exhibition were nothing short of extraordinary. As an educator, Mary is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists, and her influence extends far beyond her own work.
Kathryn Ervin had the honor of presenting the awards at the exhibition. Kathryn is a respected colleague at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), where I occasionally have the pleasure of working with her on various projects. She is an esteemed professor of theatre and a passionate advocate for the arts. Her presence at the exhibition added a sense of gravitas to the event, and her words during the awards presentation were both uplifting and encouraging. Receiving the “Best in Drawing” award from Kathryn was a truly special moment.
Another integral figure in the success of the exhibition was Jennifer Kane, whose involvement brought a wealth of experience and creativity to the table. Jennifer’s contributions to the arts are widely recognized, and her passion for fostering artistic expression is evident in everything she does. Her support and dedication were crucial in making the High Desert Open Arts Exhibition a memorable and impactful event.
Personal Reflections: A Journey of Creativity
Participating in the High Desert Open Arts Exhibition was a profound experience for me as an artist and educator. The opportunity to showcase my work alongside so many talented individuals was both humbling and inspiring. Winning the “Best in Drawing” award was a moment of validation that I will cherish for a long time. It served as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, dedication, and the continuous pursuit of artistic excellence.
As a videographer, illustrator, and graphic designer at CSUSB, I often find myself immersed in the technical and digital aspects of creativity. Participating in this exhibition allowed me to reconnect with the more tactile, hands-on side of art-making, and it reminded me of the joy that comes from creating something with my own hands. It also reinforced my belief in the power of art to bring people together, to inspire, and to provoke thought and conversation.
Being an art instructor at Victor Valley College has allowed me to share my passion for art with my students, helping them to discover their own creative voices. The High Desert Open Arts Exhibition was not just a personal achievement but also a reflection of the vibrant artistic community that I am proud to be a part of, both as an educator and as an artist.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Artistic Journey
The High Desert Open Arts Exhibition was more than just an event; it was a celebration of the artistic community that I am proud to be a part of. It highlighted the incredible talent that exists within our region and provided a platform for artists to share their work with a wider audience. I am deeply grateful for the recognition I received and for the opportunity to contribute to this vibrant community.
Moving forward, I am excited to continue exploring my artistic journey and to share more of my work with all of you. The connections I made and the experiences I gained from this exhibition have inspired me to push the boundaries of my creativity even further. I look forward to participating in more events like this in the future and to continuing to contribute to the rich tapestry of art in the High Desert.
