By: Juliana Coe
The Manhattan Beach Art Center’s “Discover Manhattan Beach” art and photo contest is a perfect outlet for young people to express themselves this summer. Whether attendees have an eye for creativity or are curious about how the city of Manhattan Beach inspires art, the two and a half-month exhibition is entertaining and exciting.
Open to the public until September 29, “Discover Manhattan Beach” is specifically for residents of Manhattan Beach. The impressive contest welcomes artists from all around town, and the quaint and charismatic atmosphere makes locals feel right at home. Its wide variety of work mirrors the simplicity of beach life in a way that isn’t seen everyday.
Submissions for the summer contest are open to all ages, with the youngest artist being only five years old. It is open every day Wednesday through Sunday, and while the artwork is mostly from artists in the city of Manhattan Beach, there is a welcome mural done by Hermosa Beast, a well-known street artist in the South Bay.
The exhibit is truly fascinating, presenting the most detailed, amazingly done works of art. The mixed media and variety of art on display is fascinating for visitors. There is something captivating for each type of person at this exhibit, with the art ranging from doodles to creative brass sculptures.
The refreshing exhibit is full of local pieces, which are all diverse in medium. The walls of the exhibit are lined with photographs and paintings that are both abstract and realistic.
The tone of the pieces also varied. Some pieces were somber, while others were cheerful. These mixed media pieces are especially keen at creating emotional contrast. Patricia Digre’s “Wild Ocean” painting is an exceptional example of this.
“Personal Space”by Kathy Kelly Bauer, pictures a faceless girl getting sunburnt on the beach. The painting’s small brush strokes and attention to detail reflect a professional level of artistry. The piece was especially enthralling for the artists way of completely capturing its subject and enhancing its natural beauty exquisitely.
A slow-fired clay sculpture, “Lady”, by Claire Aukerman, reflects a combination of technique and patience very unique to its sculptor. Though it was one of a few statues, it stood out due to its abstract theme in an unexpected environment.
Whether locals are there to browse or to support an artistic friend, stopping by this exhibit while it’s there is a good idea for any South Bay resident; it encourages funding and attention to the arts, recognizes local creative minds, and presents a lively atmosphere.
The Manhattan Beach Art Center is open from 10am-9pm Wednesday through Friday, and 10am-5pm on Saturday’s and Sundays. The studio is located at 1560 Manhattan Beach Blvd,
Manhattan Beach. For more information about this and future exhibits, please visit https://www.citymb.info/departments/parks-and-recreation/cultural-arts.
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