Featured in the Press Enterprise 1994

The concept behind the exhibit at Riverside Community College’s art gallery is a timeless one: Artists are uniquely able to showcase who they are, where they come from, and what messages resonate within their works, regardless of medium.

The exhibit, titled "Contemporary Ancestral Art: Links to the Future," brings together a diverse collection of pieces that directly or indirectly reflect themes of ethnicity and heritage.

Many of the featured works speak profoundly to cultural roots, personal struggles, and the pursuit of identity. The artists’ expressions, whether through painting, sculpture, or mixed media, are powerful reflections of their backgrounds and experiences.

One challenge, however, is the limited gallery space, which sometimes reduces the impact of individual works. Yet, the exhibit still succeeds in delivering an emotional and thought-provoking experience.

The display includes a striking mix of styles and subjects. Featured artists include Richard Blackowiak, whose paintings capture a raw and vivid storytelling essence. Bruce Burr’s sculptural pieces and Laddie John Dill’s installations add dimension and depth to the collection.

Surreal imagery is evident in several pieces, including the works of Hiroko Tsuchimoto, who blends tradition with modernity in a mesmerizing way.

Overall, "Contemporary Ancestral Art: Links to the Future" provides an insightful look into cultural identity through the eyes of artists, reinforcing the significance of heritage and the power of artistic expression. The exhibit stands as a moving tribute to the diverse backgrounds that shape the world of contemporary art.

By Dorotha L. Knopf

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