a civilization of love

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This week has been yet another rife with unrest, which I certainly don’t need to review tonight. But, I will ask, as I often do, for you to step away from the drama in Washington or the horror splattered across your screens or whatever is churning you away from finding some peace. As I write this, I am aware of my privilege to walk away. I can look out my window and easily find solace in a blue forgiving sky. Perhaps, you too can take a break for a moment. Time it if you must. But long enough to breathe.

If you are a Catholic, then perhaps, during this Holy Week you have read Pope Leo XIV’s directive. “Leading up to Easter, the Pope’s Lenten message encouraged listening to the cries of the suffering, using “disarmed” language, and building a “civilization of love” (Winnipeg Free Press).

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California Dreaming

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Is there really anything like an opening night? Whether for a drama or an opera or an art gallery, there is always fabulous energy and excitement. I am delighted to be part of California Dreaming, featuring sculpture and drawings and paintings, at Dorado 806, once again this year. Being around artists, who support and encourage each other, and seeing your art in the myriad of expressions, just feels like the family you always wanted.

Founded in 2021 on the California coast, Dorado 806 Projects is an artist-funded, arts and culture platform with a fluid, place-responsive practice. While rooted in Southern California, our practice remains nomadic—drifting toward new voices, places, and possibilities. Our studio gallery serves as both a creative hub and launch point for exhibits, performances, installations, and workshops. We focus on themes of introspection, human relationships with the natural world, transcendentalism, inclusion, listening, and self-actualization through humor and play (Dorado 806 Projects).

Wall to wall people all here for the purpose of celebrating art, make for a difficult selfie plus painting, but we managed. How much fun to capture this moment!

Painting is a passion that brings me much joy. Getting to share that with others, another perk that makes me feel fabulous. Joining an artistic community feels like heaven.

I am so pleased that, “This year’s exhibition is presented in partnership with NOURISH LA, a grassroots organization working to fight hunger and reduce food waste across Los Angeles. By rescuing wholesome food that might otherwise be discarded, they help ensure it reaches Angelenos who need it most—because good food should never go to waste.

As part of Dorado 806 Projects’ ongoing commitment to community engagement, a portion of the gallery’s proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to support NOURISH LA’s work addressing food insecurity across Los Angeles.” Grateful that this show helps those who are experiencing food insecurity.

Congrats to the many dozens of artists who dared to share their vision in this show, and in the numerous shows across our globe, and not just that, but a huge thank you to those who are challenged by their own situations but bring forth their visions regardless.