First Friday Art Reception- Lesha Maria Rodriguez, Marciano “Chango” Cruz, CosechArte

The Resource Center for Nonviolence celebrates three dynamic exhibits with a FIRST FRIDAY Art Reception, June 1, 6-9p.m. at 612 Ocean St., Santa Cruz.

Lesha Maria Rodriguez-- “Oaxaca” -- new techniques pushing photography boundaries. Day of the Dead images explore the remembrance of family and exploration of tradition. Botanical Lumen Prints include Oaxacan native and indigenous plants combined with Mixtec and Mexican Codices.

Inspired by the Virgin of Guadalupe, the Mayan calendar, surfing, and his Oaxacan heritage, Marciano “Chango” Cruz’ work includes hand-painted surfboards, acrylic paintings, and pen and ink drawings. “Water is an extension of life. I believe the water heals the mind and spirit, and it allows me to help people as much as I can. It gave me the strength to be able to survive; to allow me the stability to help my family and help my community.” “The idea is to keep guiding, to keep encouraging others to be positive and do positive things in society around us—that’s what keeps me going.”

CosechArte: An Image Without Immigrants highlights the lives and contributions of undocumented people in our communities. As Gloria E. Anzaldúa wrote, “Though we tremble before uncertain futures, may we meet illness, death, and adversity with strength. May we dance in the face of our fears.” We invite visitors to experience this art as their own life, for it is our communities that nurture greatness.

Exhibit Dates/Hours: Friday, June 1 - Wednesday, July 11, 2018, M - TH Noon - 4PM and by appointment. More INFO: 831.423.1626 or rcnv.org