SALINAS — ArtWorks @Salinas will open its summer exhibition, “Sometimes I’m Glad I Exist,” featuring mixed media works by artist Valerie Guardiola, from July 3 through Sept. 24.
The exhibition highlights Guardiola’s collection, which uses familiar imagery to transform everyday moments into romantic, quiet and unique visual experiences. According to ArtWorks @Salinas, her work explores the complexities of the feminine experience while presenting an ethereal connection between the soul and the physical world.
Through layered mixed media collages incorporating textiles and found objects, Guardiola’s work evokes vulnerability, strength and intimacy while embracing a magical and surreal aesthetic.
“As an artist, my goal is to represent people that are categorically left out of the art narrative, working to represent women and people of color as almost other-worldly,” Guardiola said.
Her mixed media art has been exhibited throughout the tri-county area, including such prestigious venues as Carmel-by-the-Sea’s premier gallery at The Sunset Center, and she has been published in Soul Anatomy, Red Cedar Review and The Voices Project, among others.
Guardiola is a co-founder of the Emerging Artists Alliance of Monterey and is a lifelong daughter of the West Coast, currently residing in Monterey.
The gallery will also feature guest artist Stacey Gregory, a Connecticut native who holds degrees in fine arts and design from the University of Pennsylvania and the Pratt Institute. After beginning her career in New York City and traveling throughout the United States, Gregory settled on the Monterey Peninsula, bringing her artistic perspective to the gallery.
In preparation for the region’s Open Studios Art Tour in September, ArtWorks @Salinas will also present a preview exhibition featuring works by resident artists alongside other participating tour artists.
“A creative spark lives in each of us — expressed through song, the written word or fine art,” stated resident artist Shagufta Khan. “This year at OSAT, I’m sharing mine on canvas through abstract explorations of color and form. Come experience my creative spark at Artworks in Salinas.”
The community is invited to visit the gallery throughout the exhibition and attend monthly First Friday artist receptions beginning at 5 p.m. on July 3, Aug. 7 and Sept. 4. The receptions provide an opportunity to meet the artists, view new works and celebrate local creativity.
ArtWorks @Salinas is located at 262 Main St. in Oldtown Salinas. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, and noon to 8 p.m. on First Fridays. Admission is free. For more information, visit arts4mc.org/artworks.
