‘Art That Transforms’ | Art Exhibition + Live Art Auction
September 7th at 12:00 – 4:00 pm | Norma Hertzog Community Center | Costa Mesa, CA
Our recent event, the “Art That Transforms” exhibition and live art auction merged the worlds of community involvement and awareness of mental health. Our event brought the Orange County community together with an eclectic display of artwork from renowned artists. Guests were able to enjoy art masterpieces and be part of a spirited auction within which they could participate in bidding for rare pieces at affordable prices. Our event was funded in part by the City of Costa Mesa’s Arts Grant program and California Arts Council.
“Art That Transforms” created a setting in which the art would stand as a medium to initiate dialogue about mental health and wellness. Art is therapeutic and has been shown to boost mental health, stimulating the reward pathways and curbing anxiety and stress. Each piece tells a story of one’s journey to overcome adversity.
In addition to the main auction, several activities were provided for attendees, such as art workshops, which allowed participants to express their creativity and explore their inner artist while having a therapeutic and enriching experience. Our interactive workshops were led by renowned artists and mental health advocates. Our event provided free resources on mental health and a space was created where art could meet personal wellness.
Alongside the two workshops and resources, free food was provided, with raffle prizes comprising original artworks and unique merchandise. Such an event not only engages but also leaves a memory, given there are numerous ways in which the community can get involved, show support for local artists, and tap into the transformative power of art. The event was open to everyone: from individuals to families with people of all ages.
Many of these artists have faced personal crises, and our exhibition allowed them not only to share their talents but be recognized for their resiliency. Attendees were allowed to take home pieces that were not only visually appealing but deeper in meaning, knowing that their purchase went to directly support individuals using art as a medium to overcome adversity.
With access to art, “Art That Transforms,” emphasizes mental wellness and submerged attendees into the visual beauty of art and the deeper conversations it can inspire. Art possesses the transformative power to alter perceptions, inspire change, and foster connections. Art is a mirror reflecting the social, cultural, and personal complexities of the human experience, broadening our understanding of the world.
"Art has the power to transform, to illuminate, to educate, inspire and motivate"
Thank you to the talented photographers, Manny Olmedo and Thomas Leach, from South County Photo Club for capturing ‘Art That Transforms’.
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Thank you to our sponsors, California Arts Council, Costa Mesa Arts Grant Program, Blick Art Materials, Thrivent Financial, and Costco Wholesale for making this event truly memorbale!
I really loved the summary of the event and was so lucky to have been a part of it!