Return to Form brings a resurgence of classical ideals through the work of artists Nora Martin-Hall, Edgar Silva, Lucy Cui, and Brittany Ryan. They pay homage to traditions, adopting classical approach that redefines beauty and reframes classicism in a contemporary context. As they skillfully reshape these tenets, these artists breathe new life into a fallen tradition, bridging the past and present.
Return to Form will be on view at the Manhattan Beach Art Center through March 31.
“Nora Martin-Hall's Excuse My Charisma, is a lively and contemporary masterpiece that effortlessly blends classical artistry with a modern flair. As a young and dynamic Los Angeles-based artist, Martin-Hall showcases her distinctive style in this portrait of a brown-haired woman.
The artwork is a burst of vibrant colors and eclectic shapes, featuring elements like butterflies, yellow sunflowers, stars, praying hands, a gun, a faith sign, and many butterflies. These colorful creatures can symbolize, the appreciation of beauty, and the delicate aspects of life. This diverse mix of symbols adds layers of complexity to the piece, prompting the viewer to engage in a thoughtful exploration of its meaning.
Martin-Hall's signature quirky and playful aesthetic shines through in Excuse My Charisma. Grounded in traditional representational painting and drawing, her work takes on a classical essence but is enlivened with a contemporary touch. The juxtaposition of the traditional and the modern creates a visually stimulating experience.
In this painting the brown-haired woman serves as the focal point, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues. The inclusion of the gun alongside more serene symbols like butterflies and praying hands introduces an intriguing contrast, sparking contemplation about the interplay of different elements in the composition.
Excuse My Charisma is a testament to Martin-Hall's artistic versatility and her ability to push boundaries. The artwork not only captures the essence of the subject but also invites viewers to interpret the symbolism in their own way. With its classical foundation and modern sensibility, this piece stands out as a captivating representation of Martin-Hall's artistic prowess. ”
-Reka P., Gallery Attendant
Brittany Ryan, Miss Independent
“I'm drawn to this piece because of how natural it looks and its unique use of the materials: aqua resin and oil paint. The combination creates a captivating texture and color that resonates with me. Brittany’s artistry shines through in how she brings these elements together to create form in a very realistic way. ”
-Chrystal B., Gallery Attendant
Return to Form will be on view at the Manhattan Beach Art Center through March 31.
Immerse yourself in the artistic vision of Nora Martin-Hall, Edgar Silva, Lucy Cui, and Brittany Ryan as they seamlessly blend classical techniques with a modern perspective, reshaping our perception of beauty through the human form. Don't miss the chance to craft your perler bead portrait using the provided materials and instructions. This interactive experience adds a personal touch to the exhibition, making it a enriching visit for art enthusiasts of all ages.
Return to Form will be on view at the Manhattan Beach Art Center through March 31.
Emily Tanaka's new mural, inspired by Manhattan Beach, beautifully incorporates the city’s two official flowers: the Beach Primrose and the Camellia. Alongside the vibrant depiction of these flowers, Emily skillfully integrates elements from the existing frieze at the Manhattan Beach Arts Center by John Van Hamersveld. These elements blend harmoniously, resulting in an engaging and distinctly Manhattan Beach-themed artwork.
View Emily's mural right outside of the Manhattan Beach Art Center along Manhattan Beach Boulevard across from Polliwog Park.
Explore the exciting art of Raku Firing in this hands-on workshop. Students will glaze and fire their pieces, participating in the entire process. Limit 3-4 pieces per student of pre-made, bisqued pottery. Space is limited so not all work may be fired. Pieces limited to no more than 4 inches wide and 8 inches tall. Pieces must be bisque fired prior to workshop. Information sheet about this workshop and requirements will be emailed to participants. Workshop is conducted mainly outdoors, behind the Manhattan Beach Arts Center. Fire safe clothes and closed toed shoes must be worn.
Level: Intermediate to Advanced, previous ceramics experience required.
For ages: 18 and up
Wednesday, March 20 1:00pm - 4:00pm #41721
To register for this workshop please visit: Raku
Join us for our Introduction to Oil Painting class and immerse yourself in the realm of oil painting. This course will walk you through how to set up your materials and brushes, teach the fundamentals of design, and help you produce your very own paintings under the guidance of a trained instructor. Let your imagination go wild as you bring white canvases to life and experience the delight of using the rich medium of oil paint to express yourself. All skill levels welcome! Supplies are not included.
For ages: 18 and up
Wednesday, April 24 - June 26 6:30pm - 9:30pm #42614
To register for this workshop please visit:
Intro to Oil Painting
Dive into the expressive world of our Charcoal drawing class! Explore the interplay of light and shadow, get a feel for the materials, and refine your skills in creating expressive compositions. Whether you are a beginner or looking to enhance your artistic abilities, this class offers a productive space to hone your craft. Unearth the power of charcoal to create stunning visual drawings. All skill levels welcome! Supplies are not included.
For ages: 18 and up
Thursday, April 25 - June 27 6:30pm - 9:30pm #42615
To register for this workshop please visit: Intro to Charcoal
Come experiment with the freedom and self-expression of art journaling. Working in a provided sketchbook (you may bring your own if you prefer), learn various approaches to capturing your thoughts, feelings and ideas using mixed media materials and drawing techniques. All skill levels are welcome. For ages 18 and up.
For ages: 18 and up
Wednesday, April 3 - June 5
11:30am - 1:00pm
#42361
For ages: 18 and up
Thursday, April 4 - June 6
10:00am - 11:30pm
#42362
To register for this workshop please visit: Adult Art Journaling
Art Lab is an inclusive art exploration opportunity for kids. Focusing on developing the innate artistic voice of each child, Art Lab is all about confidence building. Each week will focus on a different creative process and/or material. Example projects may include drawing, painting, working with beads, collaborative creation, collage, and always an art journal that the kids can work on throughout the session.
For ages: 5-9 years old
Wednesday, April 10 - May 29
2:30pm - 4:00pm
#42366
For ages: 8-15 years old
Wednesday, April 10 - May 29
4:15pm - 5:45pm
#42367
To register for this workshop please visit:
Art Lab
Dive into the art of drawing with this captivating introduction led by the accomplished artist and professor, Edgar Silva. Students will advance their grasp of spatial illusion via atmospheric and linear perspective. Edgar's approach emphasizes practical exploration of visual elements like: line, shape, value, volume, texture, space, light, and composition. All skill levels are embraced in Edgar's inclusive academic drawing approach.
For ages: 18 and up
Friday, April 19 - June 21
9:00 am - 12:00pm
#42381
To register for this workshop please visit: Foundations Drawing
Immerse yourself in the art of painting through this introductory course guided by accomplished artist and professor, Edgar Silva. Students will explore the complexity of painting through direct observation of a still life. Focusing on value and color relationships, this class will walk you through a monochromatic palette, a limited palette, and finally a full palette. Through this process, you will learn how the function of light dictates the color relationships we see on the form. Finally, students will work from their own inspiration, providing photo references to paint as a final project.
For ages: 18 and up
Friday, April 19 - June 21
12:00pm - 3:00pm
#42382
To register for this workshop please visit: Foundations Painting
Glaze Lab Closed:
MBAC Gallery Installation:
April 6, 7, 13, 14, 2024
Holidays:
New Year's Day, Independence Day, Christmas Day
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Adult Art Journaling 11:30AM - 1PM
Art Lab 2:30-4PM
Intro to Oil Painting 6:30pm - 9:30pm
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Adult Art Journaling
- 1PM
Art Lab 2:30-4PM
Intro to Oil Painting 6:30pm - 9:30pm
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Adult Art Journaling 1011:30AM
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Drawing 9AM-12PM
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Painting 12-3PM
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Painting 12-3PM
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Drawing 9AM-12PM
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Painting 12-3PM
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Silver Metal Clay: Charms Workshop with Chris Brooks 9:30
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Cultural Arts Commission Meeting 4 PM
Rescheduled for January 21
HYBRID*
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Glaze Lab 10-4PM
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Adult Art Journaling
- 1PM
Raku 1-4PM
Art Lab 2:30-4PM
Intro to Oil Painting 6:30pm - 9:30pm
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Adult Art Journaling 10-11:30AM
Intro to Charcoal 6:30pm-9:30pm
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Drawing 9AM-12PM
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Painting 12-3PM
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Adult Art Journaling 11:30AM - 1PM
Art Lab 2:30-4PM
Intro to Oil Painting 6:30pm - 9:30pm
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Adult Art Journaling 10-11:30AM
Intro to Charcoal 6:30pm-9:30pm
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