Students, staff, and family members all came out to support the Justice Scholars program and their art at the opening ceremony of “Hope Restored: Justice Scholars Student Exhibition,” on Feb 13.
The purpose of this exhibition was to bring recognition to a group of people who were formerly incarcerated and give others the opportunity to feel and connect with their artwork.
The event curated by Summer Bernal and Alberto Lule involved a community of people on campus who gathered to support, learn, connect, and enjoy art while understanding its impact.
Bernal and Lule explained what the event meant and the significance it holds in highlighting the artists who were able to attend.
Edward Vejar (left to right) talks to the exhibition curators, Summer Bernal and Alberto Lule at the opening ceremony of the exhibit. (Samantha Navarro)
Artist Juanita Diaz did a brief introduction about art and what it means to her.
“Art for me is therapeutic and helps me to escape,” said Diaz.
As the event kicked off, people were able to admire the art, take pictures, and converse with the fellow artists.
Artist Mia Hoffmaster spoke about her artwork and how she learned to create different pieces.
“My dad was a tattoo artist and as a child overtime I learned how to draw and overtime improved,” Hoffmaster said.
All the art conveyed a different meaning and each piece had its own story, some were rather emotional.
Artist Miguel Zavala Lopez mentioned his art can take on average up to a few weeks to a few months, the process of getting the supplies and thinking of what to create is the longest process.
“It depends on the art and how big it is and the materials I use, which can depend on how long it takes,” Zavala Lopez said.
Every art piece had a variety of different colors, patterns, and textures alongside its own way of being portrayed by the audience.
Some pieces were created using different items and materials, rather than a singular artform.
“I use a mix between clay, family heritage pieces, and other items,” said Zavala Lopez.
Bernal explained how important it is that communities support one another, especially in spaces where they might feel out of place.
“It’s important to have students and friends that encourage you to pursue your passions and what is meditative for you. That’s my outlook on art,” said Bernal.
Bernal and Lule felt that it was their job to help tell the stories behind each piece, and they encapsulated exactly what they wanted: transformation and redemption.
This exhibition will be open for viewing at the art gallery in the LAC campus in Building K until March 22, 2025.