December 20, 2019 – January 10, 2020
Perspectives on Acceptance
About the exhibition
Stay Gallery is pleased to present Perspectives on Acceptance, a debut group exhibition featuring the works of five Southern California artists – Alexander Antezana, Hadasa Castro, Josh Randall, Bryn Riihimaki, and Amanda Santos.
The five, collectively titled Omnium, are a group of multidisciplinary artists and close friends. The word Omnium originates from the Latin meaning “of all” to embody the group’s artistic diversity in medium, approach and application.
This exhibition explores the concept of acceptance as a life-long practice. The artists of Omnium each contribute their own perspective and personal experience with acceptance, piecing together an honest depiction of vulnerability, self reflection and growth.
Exhibition flyer for Perspectives on Acceptance – December 2019 & January 2020
“Acceptance is a journey rather than a destination. It is an honest exploration of self in order to find peace and to settle our inner demons. We must be vulnerable with ourselves and each other to work through past joys and tragedies in hopes of a better future. We must be at peace with what could be and let go of what should be.”
– Omnium
About the artists
Featured alphabetically by last name
Alexander Antezana
Alexander Antezana’s work focuses on bringing to light the current cultural, social, political, and psychological issues that affect everyone.
Antezana’s works featured in Omnium Presents is visually inspired by artist Salem Baker and Cameron Porter, and is conceptually rooted in the writings of Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu. Finding inspiration through these artists and this philosopher, Antezana reveals the power of accepting oneself and beauty behind who you are – flaws and all.
Antezana was born and raised in Southern California. He is a current undergraduate student at Azusa Pacific University and presently resides in Arcadia, CA.
Hadasa Castro
Hadasa Castro is a self-proclaimed glitter artist who also works in screenprinting, mold-making, ceramics, and textiles. When creating her glitter works, she utilizes the sparkly and shiny flakes to offer a glimmer of hope during times of darkness, even if only for a moment. She is currently exploring the juxtaposing topics of family and inner struggles with the light-hearted, child-like nature of glitter. She hopes to make us re-imagine the philosophical nature of these topics.
Hadasa was born and raised in Southern California and received her Bachelor’s in Art at Azusa Pacific University.
Josh Randall
Josh Randall is an interdisciplinary artist. He loves working in various mediums including ceramics, painting, and drawing. His work often incorporates elements of social consciousness, focusing on the marginalized in society. He hopes his audience will gain a more nuanced understanding of other people’s experiences.
Josh is from Southern California and he received his Bachelor’s of Fine Arts from Azusa Pacific University. He is currently studying illustration and concept art at the Concept Design Academy.
Bryn Riihimaki
With an interest in intrapersonal connection, interpersonal relations, and comfortability, Bryn Riihimaki is continually exploring the world around her. She touches on themes of abandonment and heartbreak as well as merriment and peace.
Her work displayed in this show is a reflection on numerous difficult conversations and interactions that have influenced who she is and that have guided her path to where she is going. Many of these conversations occurred on a couch, from her childhood home, that eventually traveled with her through college and into adulthood.
Riihimaki was born and raised in Southern California and received her B.F.A. from Azusa Pacific University.
Instagram: @itsjustbryn, @bryncreates
Amanda Santos
Amanda Santos creates introspective work that explores how the spirit is contained within a physical vessel. As stated by the artist, Eleanor Stelter, "Santos carves out pockets of space that transcend chronological time." She utilizes layers of media and intentionally censored poetry as a cathartic meditative practice and seeks to provide a platform to begin an open conversation about mental health. Amanda Santos uses her work as a way to reconcile her past, present, and provide hope for her future.
Born and raised in Southern California, she is a graduate of Azusa Pacific University.
Exhibition highlights
Exhibition flyer for "Perspectives on Acceptance"
Four of the five artists behind "Perspectives on Acceptance" – December 20, 2019
"Perspectives on Acceptance" opening reception – December 20, 2019
Work by Alexander Antezana – December 20, 2019
Work by Bryn Riihimaki – December 20, 2019
"Perspectives on Acceptance" opening reception – December 20, 2019
Work by Amanda Santos – December 20, 2019
Work by Hadasa Castro – December 20, 2019
Work by Josh Randall – December 20, 2019
View more photos from the opening reception: