Fall 2018 art exhibit features colorful photography and surreal images

Vibrant surreal art and colorful travel photos greet ASU students on their way to class at the University Center building in Downtown Phoenix.

The artwork is on loan from local artists as part of the College of Public Service and Community Solutions’ Action, Advocacy & Arts program. The program uses the arts as a way to build relationships between the community and ASU students, faculty and staff. By sharing their stories and art, the ASU University Center building becomes more than space for classrooms and offices.

“What I love about art is that it gives people different perspectives based on artistic ideas,” says Alexis Bojorquez, who curates art for the College of Public Service and Community Solutions. “The work allows the artist to express personal, social, or political ideas that can conflict with the perception of the people who see it.”  

The Action, Advocacy and Arts program was started by the late Debra Friedman, former dean of the college, who believed that art helps engage the community. Each semester, the college asks community artists to collaborate on a themed art show. The fall 2018 theme is “Reawaking” as the art exhibit resumes after a brief summer hiatus.

One of the artists exhibiting her work is Paula Cullison, a long-time travel writer and photographer. Her work is on display on the first floor of the University Center building. It showcases the culture of various countries.

“It’s an honor to be part of the ASU community and it gives me great pleasure to share my travels with the community,” says Cullison. “I believe that travel is a way to become more aware of the world and understand other people’s perspectives.”

As curator of the exhibition, Bojorquez talked with a diverse group of local artists about showcasing their work in a meaningful way.

“It's fascinating to have the community engage in such a positive manner, allowing new up-and-coming--as well as experienced--artists to display their work for students, faculty, staff, or people just visiting to look at our college,” he says.

Bojorquez explained that this art program is different from anywhere else in the university as it provides opportunities for students to engage with the community and vice versa.

“The artists bring an enthusiastic attitude and fascinating perspective to the college,” notes Bojorquez. “It’s interesting to see students engage with the artwork, to see their reaction and hear the conversations they have about their own interpretation.”