“It was an honor to be invited to jury the show for the Artist Alliance of Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA). Members submitted entries to represent the height of creativity for Stretched Imagination. They did not disappoint which made the selection process all the more difficult! The submitted work touched on contemporary issues and a rich array of artistic approaches with elements of mystic symbolism, abstraction, and figural work with a focus on people of color. The photographic pieces were a particular favorite. The selected pieces play with optical layers and color, and exhibit an ironic play on contemporary life. Also included in the exhibition are several beautiful examples of traditional painting techniques for their adept handling of light and tonal harmonies. With a little something for every taste, I hope you enjoy seeing a slice of local contemporary art.”

—Juror Chi Essary