Lens to Legacy: ‘Visions Unfold’ honors AAPI photography
By Hayden Dobb, LA Downtown News Staff Writer Sep 23, 2024
Exhibiting at SubTerra Gallery at The Makery, 3C Gallery brings an array of AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) artistry to Little Tokyo. Locals and visitors can view the large exhibition located at 260 South Los Angeles Street until Sept. 29.
The exhibition, titled “Visions Unfold,” is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the visionary works of AAPI photographic artists. The collection of 47 different works will highlight a wide range of innovative styles and mediums, where traditional Asian influences clash and morph Western cultural elements. As a result, an abundant tapestry of artistry will reflect singular and blended expressions of work.
Richard S. Chow, an artist in the show and curator for the “Visions Unfold” exhibition and 3C Gallery, will present his series titled “Present Tense” at SubTerra. The photographer and artist is based in LA, and is celebrated for his fine art, documentary and unique photo-based creations.
“‘Visions Unfold’ is a grand experience — it’s not a small exhibit,” artist and curator Richard S. Chow noted. “We want guests to be fully immersed in the work of AAPI artists, with different concepts and mediums presented. Each artist in the show is a photographic artist, with a few representing an abstract take on the form. From studies in alternative photography to cultural references to film negatives, there are so many subjects and photography mediums touched on throughout the exhibition.”
The exhibition “Visions Unfold” will explore how artists creatively morph and navigate diverse cultural influences by offering a reflection of the complexity and richness of AAPI experiences and identities. The exhibition not only celebrates the artwork but also strives to give a platform for the artists and their contributions to the contemporary art world.
On Sunday, Sept. 29, guests are invited to the free closing reception at SubTerra from 4 to 6 p.m. with snacks and light refreshments made available for guests.
“Some of our artists will be speaking about their work at the event and what inspired them to create the pieces from the exhibit,” Chow shared. “The artist will stand beside their work, talk about what motivates them and cover the process behind the piece and the objectives. It’s quite an interactive experience for anyone looking to dive deeper into what the exhibition is all about — there are opportunities to chat with some of the artists who are able to attend the closing ceremony, and guests are encouraged to ask the artists questions they may have about their work.”
The nine featured exhibiting artists in “Visions Unfold” are Chung-Ping Cheng, Ringo Chiu, Richard S. Chow, Shizuko Greenblatt, Rollence Patugan, Stephanie Shih, Joshua Tann, Sandra Chen Weinstein and Jonas Yip.
“I’m so happy to highlight the work of these visionary photographic artists. It’s so important to give AAPI artists a platform to showcase their art, as their pieces are something to be celebrated. We want as many people as possible to come experience these pieces in person because to be in the presence of such work feels extraordinary and out-of-this-world,” Chow added.
Current SubTerra gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, making for a picturesque art-filled weekend supporting AAPI artists. Admission to SubTerra and the “Visions Unfold” exhibition is free. For more information about the AAPI artists and to catch a glimpse at some of the work in the exhibition, visit 3cgallery.com.
Visions Unfold
WHEN: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 29
WHERE: SubTerra gallery at The Makery, 260 S. Los Angeles Street, Little Tokyo, Los Angeles
COST: Free
INFO: 3cgallery.com
https://www.ladowntownnews.com/arts_and_entertainment/lens-to-legacy-visions-unfold-honors-aapi-photography/article_33ebc340-79cc-11ef-8af7-9b5ea6d66f53.html