SUEÑOS / YUME: FIFTY YEARS OF THE ART OF DORA DE LARIOS
Curated by Elaine Levin
September 27, 2009 - January 10, 2010

Internationally acclaimed, Los Angeles-born ceramist Dora De Larios’s unique pan-cultural vision has been inspired by the interplay of cultures in her Mexican/Japanese neighborhood, study of world religions, and ancient art.  An artist that exalts the feminine form and has a deep reverence for the mystical aspects of life, De Larios’s works are both earthly and divine. Curated by preeminent ceramics scholar Elaine Levin, this exhibit explores the extraordinary range of De Larios’s work - from mythological figurines and goddess sculptures, to life-size totems and murals.  Her soulfully rendered pieces, glazed with rich color, pay homage to a lifelong love affair with world cultures and attest to the artist’s humor and exotic imagination. Experience the dreams of Dora De Larios at CAFAM.

This exhibit is supported in part by the Ethnic Arts Council and Department of Cultural Affairs, City of Los Angeles.

MYTH AND MANPOWER: GRAPHICS AND THE CALIFORNIA DREAM
September 27, 2009 - January 10, 2010

Learn about the power of graphic design to communicate ideas and shape human behavior in this original and thought-provoking exhibition rooted in California history. Juxtaposing idyllic images created for selling citrus fruits against union posters created to mobilize for workers’ rights, this exhibition explores the ways in which design principles were used to influence the American consumer. Early 20th century California fruit box labels painted a mythical picture of a sun-soaked state with pristine orchards, luxurious fruit, and glamorous women. Yet not depicted on the labels were the field laborers who often worked under harsh conditions and with few rights. Seen side-by-side, California fruit box labels from 1887-1959 and United Farm Workers (UFW) posters from 1965-1998 demonstrate the power of graphic design and offer an eye-opening look at California history.

Bill Stern, guest curator, organized this exhibition for the Museum of California Design.

Check back soon for more information on our upcoming exhibits and related programming!

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

To sponsor one of these important exhibits, please contact Michelle Lee at 323.937.4230 x31 or michelle@cafam.org.

Or, please visit our Sponsor Page for additional information.