Projecting Possibilities, a digital public art project launched during the pandemic, returns to showcase local artists and to celebrate our rich, creative community. Helms Design District, in partnership with Culver Arts, will feature a new artist each month, projecting their artwork street-side on the entry doors to the Helms Design Center at 8745 Washington Boulevard in Culver City. With easy community viewing, this outdoor gallery’s projections can be viewed from 8:00 pm until 2:00 am.
Richard Rownak is the Culver Arts March grant recipient, featuring a collection of his work and photographic journey. Richard creates stunning images that the viewer can get lost in. “I could just climb right into it,” is what one graphic artist said of Richard’s work. From his years of studying great artists through the ages, Richard’s goal is to create images that not only hold the viewer’s attention, but also capture the mind’s eye.
“Beauty is everywhere and it must be recognized. I stay fresh and open to new knowledge and expression. I strive to create a visual experience, using color, depth, and composition in a way that pulls the viewer into the piece, sparks their curiosity, and engages their emotions. That is my rewarding journey as an artist.”
Starting out as a self-taught photographer working in his darkroom for hours on end gave him a basis for his “graphic understanding”. Then years of working with professionals in Fayetteville, AR and Los Angeles, CA gave Richard the opportunity to learn valuable lessons in composition and lighting techniques. Working at a special effects studio also inspired him. The expertise he gained allowed him to create new and unique images by combining elements and making several exposures on a single film. With his personal computer and sophisticated software, he found additional tools that fueled his passion and provided unlimited opportunities to create still images and animations with his own original music.
Applications are open to a wide range of artists, including painters, filmmakers, photographers, poets, sculptors, and textile artists. Artists must live or work in Culver City and have a body of work that could feature 20-30 images or a short video. Culver Arts will provide $1000 grants to featured artists. Applications close on Monday, March 10th.
Your support for this project will continue the mission of the Culver City Arts Foundation, helping to promote the longevity of Projecting Possibilities and highlight arts and culture in our community.
If you are a local business and would like to connect for special promotions or incentives, the Culver Arts Foundation would love to hear from you! “Art brings beauty, creates community, and starts conversation.” For more information, please email Culver Arts.