Artworks Artist in Residence Newsletter1
- 1. Theseevents promiseto bea feast for thesenses, with interactivesessions, in-person collaboration, and opportunities for community engagement. Editorial Letter Dear Salinas Community, I hope this letter finds you well and thriving. As we welcome the new season, I am thrilled to share the latest updates and happenings from our vibrant Artist in Residence at ArtWorks@salinas. Our community has always been a fertile ground for creativity and innovation; this year is no exception. We are honored to be a diverse group of artists whose work spans various mediums, from painting and crafting to artisans. Each artist brings a unique perspective and a wealth of talent, enriching our cultural tapestry and inspiring all. One of the highlights of this season is the upcoming workshops and classes, which will showcase the incredible talent of resident artists. We invite you to join us in celebrating the power of art to connect, heal, and transform. In addition to exhibition, we are excited to announce a series of events and open studio sessions These events foster healing and learning, allowing artists and community members to share ideas and techniques. Whether you are an aspiring artist or simply curious about the creative process, there is something for everyone. Our Artist in Residence program is more than just a platform for artistic expression; it is a testament to the strength and resilience of our community. In these challenging times, art can uplift and unite us, reminding us of our shared humanity and the beauty that surrounds us. I want to thank all the artists, volunteers, supporters, and the Arts Council of Monterey County who make this program possible. Your dedication and passion drive our success, and we are deeply grateful for your contributions. As we look ahead, I am optimistic and excited about the future. Together, we will continue to nurture creativity, celebrate diversity, and build a stronger, more vibrant community. Thank you for being a part of this journey. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and witnessing the incredible impact of art on our lives. Warm regards, Victoria Pearl Lee Editor, Artist in Residence Newsletter Salinas, California NE W S L E T T E R A r t i s t i n R e s i d e n c e a t A r t W o r k s @ s a l i n e s Kenji leads Healing Art Seminars and business workshops. Meet Shagufta Khan ¨C Channeling Artist Edgar Lorenzo: A Journey of Art, Animation, and Teaching 01 02 03 You are Invited! To the the ArtWorks@salinas experience. Edition N¡ã1 March 2025
- 2. Meet Kenji Tanner Kenji leads Healing Art Seminars and business workshops. Living in Monterey County and raised by her Japanese and African American parents, Kenji was introduced to various cultures early on. Kenji¡¯s rich ancestral experiences influenced her creative expressions and blended themes to make powerful cross-cultural statements. For over 30 years, Kenji¡¯s art has deeply conveyed a profound understanding of the human spirit and deep messages that ignite the imagination. Kenji is certified by UCLA SELHealing in the Arts and Central Coast Creative Corps Business for Artists with the California Arts Council. She has been contracted with the MPUSD VAPA program for almost a decade and has supported students in the elementary schools by encouraging self-awareness, social awareness, curiosity, and inspiring creativity through thought provoking art lessons that support academic subjects. Kenji has worked with the Arts Council for Monterey County as the Lead Teaching Artist for 17 years. She continues to lead Healing Art Seminars and business workshops to veterans, shelterless women, teachers, parents, and artists. Kenji continues to motivate individuals who desire to tap into and express feelings through creative expressions. Kenji¡¯s love for humanity and the arts imprints on everyone she touches. Facebook: @kenjiartdesign Instagram: @Kenjiartqueen
- 3. Meet Shagufta Khan ¨C Channeling Artist I channel the subconscious and conscious thoughts and feelings that flow through me in the moment, allowing my artwork to emerge spontaneously and organically. I refer to this process as "spilling myself onto the canvas via my artistic energies." Often, I begin without preconceived plans or sketches, fully trusting the instinctual guidance of my inner self. Standing beside my canvas, I go where the flow takes me, choosing colors that resonate within me and employing my bare hands, brushes, or knives as inspired by my intuition. As the creation unfolds, a striking revelation captures my attention, guiding me toward the essence of the message the universe conveys through that piece of art. Sometimes, the vision may shift mid-way, leading the artwork to take on a new direction. This technique infuses my creations with authenticity and distinct energy, capturing motion, emotions, and my interpretation of the world. My formal identity as an impressionist abstract artist drives me to evoke deep emotions in the viewer through my reflections on concepts such as nature as a healer, universal connectedness, family as lifelines, and community as an essential support system. Above all, I embrace the uniqueness and sameness of our human experiences, reminding us that we all share the same feelings. Ultimately, I aim to portray my internal visions and external life experiences in ways that resonate profoundly with my audience, inviting them on a journey of contemplation and self-reflection. I encourage viewers to explore their own thoughts, visions, and emotions, making the art a personal experience. In pursuit of this goal, I offer holistic and therapeutic art sessions at my studio, including: 1. Paint with EFT Energy Release 2. Canvas Swap Art with Breathwork 3. Paint your Heart with F Note Sound Bath, with more sessions to come. To learn or book a session, DM via my Instagram: @ ShaguftasArtStudio, Art Portfolio: www.shaguftakhanartstudio.com and Art Wearables: www.legalariste.com/en/skwearable Feel free to call me at 551-689-3600.
- 4. Meet Edgar Lorenzo: A Journey of Art, Animation, and Teaching Edgar Lorenzo is a gifted artist from the Philippines whose passion for creativity fueled his journey into the world of animation. He diligently honed his skills in the industry and had the privilege of working with esteemed studios such as Disney, MGM, and Universal, contributing to productions that have touched the hearts of audiences globally. Seven years ago, Edgar migrated to the United States, where his background as a former pastor uniquely positioned him to transition into the education system as a paraeducator. This experience revealed to him a profound connection between art, mentorship, and personal growth. He understands that animation transcends mere movement; it embodies storytelling, discipline, and self-expression. Now, he is devoted to sharing his knowledge and passion with aspiring artists. Edgar's mission is to empower young talents to explore the art of animation, viewing it not just as a technical skill but as a meaningful journey of creativity and self-discovery. By merging his industry experience with a heartfelt dedication to teaching, he inspires the next generation to embrace the transformative power of animation and to bring their unique stories to life. To connect with Edger Lorenzo Find him @ https://edgarlorenzo2000. wixsite.com/art-edge https://m.imdb.com/nam e/nm3010243 INSTA: Edge Lorenzo Edgar is devoted to sharing his knowledge and passion with aspiring artists.
- 5. Dolor tempor aliquip culpa velit ut reprehenderit. Officia aliquip reprehenderit sit labore amet sunt reprehenderit fugiat sit anim occaecat amet ipsum. Meet Nate Stapleton Blending the abstract with the fantastic, Nate creates unique and mysterious pieces, using diverse painting techniques. Nate Stapleton has been expressing himself artistically since childhood in various forms. He often immersed himself in comic books and fantasy and science fiction novels, which fueled his imagination and provided an escape from the turbulence of his early years. To this day, he still appreciates these influences. The artwork that adorned the covers of paperbacks and comics inspired him to begin drawing as a child and later to take up painting as a teenager. Through painting, he discovered the freedom to express himself, developing a deep appreciation for abstract and impressionist art. Artists like Edvard Munch, Claude Monet, and Jackson Pollock became significant inspirations for him, propelling him forward in his artistic journey. As a young adult, his abstract charcoal pieces were showcased in art shows. However, he eventually abandoned drawing altogether and painted only sporadically. After struggling with alcoholism in the following years, he channeled most of his creative energy into performing and recording music for various projects. Now older and sober, he has returned to painting as his preferred medium of self- expression. By blending the abstract with the fantastic, he creates unique and mysterious pieces, using diverse painting techniques. Through his work, he expresses feelings of hope, hurt, alienation, and wonder while exploring the boundaries of creativity. To connect with Nate, check out his Instagram: nate.stapleton.3 Website: Natessounddesign.com FB: Nate Stapleton Art and Sound
- 6. Meet Victoria & Jasmine a First Friday artist. Spreading wellness and joy through art. A mother of two adult children and a five-time brain tumor pediatric cancer warrior. She understands the profound positive impact that art can have on children with cancer and their families. Vicky is excited to give back to her community by utilizing a healing modality she loves to enhance the lives of those in need. Vicky is a self-taught artist with a few art classes through-out her undergraduate studies. She began painting and photography at nine years old. As an artist, art teacher, healer, writer, and peer-to-peer mentor at the Brain Tumor Foundation, Vicky has spent twenty years working with children who have learning disabilities, employing a positive parenting model. She is a certified art therapist who uses meditation, visualization, stress reduction, and therapeutic art techniques with children and their families. In 2024, Vicky created an Intuitive Art program designed to nurture the mind, body, and soul. This program will take place every Sunday at ArtWorks@Salinas from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Using education to improve the lives of others. Vicky holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Child Development and a master¡¯s degree in human services, focusing on Non-Profit work. She is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Sedona, specializing in Metaphysical Science. If you're interested in connecting with Vicky, you can find her on Instagram at @intuitive_art_center or on LinkedIn: (26) Victoria Lee | LinkedIn Victoria (Vicky) Lee, a resident of Monterey County for twenty-five years. vibrant colors and imaginative landscapes. The experience of creating art is not just a hobby for me; it¡¯s a vital part of my journey, offering comfort and solace in difficult times. I am continually inspired by the incredible community of artists who uplift one another, fostering a spirit of collaboration and encouragement. I aspire to dedicate as much time as possible to my art, and one day, I dream of showcasing my work in a gallery or owning a gallery of my own¡ªwhere I can share my passion with others and celebrate the beauty of artistic expression. During my teenage years, I discovered the joy of painting at home as a creative outlet while being homeschooled and navigating the challenges of lupus, epilepsy, and arthritis. Each brushstroke became an escape, transporting me to a world where I could fully immerse myself in Meet Jasmine Caption text
- 7. Nate Stapleton Kenji Tanner Jasmine Gomez Edgar Lorenzo Shagufta Khan
- 8. Victoria Lee