"East in Eden"

About the Exhibition

All the artists were invited to create new work that investigated the theme of Place as it pertained to the Pomona Valley. All the artists live and/or work in the Valley, many have lived here most of their lives. This exhibition is intended to initiate a dialog between the Pomona Valley community and its artists. East in Eden will examine and interpret the Pomona Valley through the eyes of its contemporary artists. The thematic focus is placed thus the dialog begins with the identification and examination of "place," from the San Bernardino Mountains to urban cityscapes. "Place" is both natural and cultural, and works will juxtapose critical commentary on social issues of class and privilege as well as raise environmental and ecological questions stemming from urban/suburban sprawl. The dialog will embrace the Valley's farm and ranching history as well as its past and present politics -- including race, immigration, and migrant workers. The exhibition and catalog ultimately will form a composite portrait, a collage, and a mosaic of Pomona. The "place" to be revealed is both geographical and human. The production of both a printed and virtual catalog is made possible through an NEA grant.