Two New Art Shows Open in Irvine

The Irvine Fine Arts Center will display two new exhibitions starting Saturday, November 14.

An opening reception is scheduled from 2 to 4 p.m. on that date. The exhibits remain on view through January 23, 2027.

Juan Manuel Gomez presents a collection of new and reworked mixed-media sculptures. His work uses industrially processed metals and heavy-duty plastics to create structures that suggest protection and refuge. The pieces address the fragility of contemporary life by balancing strength with vulnerability.

Gomez uses deconstruction as a method to process uncertainty. He frames creative expression as a way to find shelter and endure in a challenging environment. The exhibition explores how individuals adapt to difficult moments.

The second exhibition, All Together!, focuses on collective celebration and cultural identity. It draws inspiration from the nation’s recent 250th anniversary. The show features work in animation, design, fine art, illustration, and textiles.

Public historian Cynthia Castañeda and artist Melanie Walden co-organized the event with the center. They examine how celebration relates to resilience in Southern California communities. Thirteen artists participate in this group show. The roster includes Rockee Armendariz, Patrick Ballesteros, Rosy Cortez, Jonah Elijah, Jeanette Floyd, Eva Grello, Justin Paszul, Crystal Rodriguez-Leal, Briar Rosa, Willis Salomon, Edwin Ushiro, kalynn vidaure, and Xiaoxiao Wu.

Admission, the opening reception, and parking are free for all visitors. The center is located at 14321 Yale Ave. in Heritage Community Park. Hours run from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Interested parties can contact the center at 949-724-6880 or visit artsinirvine.org for details.