“California Cruisin” art show celebrates beach life at Manhattan Beach Creative Arts Center

“Anniversary Sunset,” painting by Tricia Strickfaden
“Wave,” photograph by Brent Broza

“Wave,” photograph by Brent Broza

by Vy Nguyen

“California Crusin,’” an exhibition celebrating the impeccable beauty of beach life in the South Bay, opens tomorrow in the Creative Arts Center in Manhattan Beach. Curated by Ann Martin, it features recent work by local artists Brent Broza, Tricia Strickfaden, and Rob Waxman.

As a native of Manhattan Beach, it is no wonder that Brent Broza’s artistic interests reflect his love of the South Bay. Broza is a self-taught photographer who focuses on photographing anything to do with surfing, the ocean, music, nature and lifestyle. His artwork has been recognized by various companies, proving that it is possible to earn a living doing what one loves. His works have also been showcased in Surfer Magazine, American Music Press Magazine, CBS Newsletter Cover, on CD jackets, and various websites.

Although she is not originally from the South Bay, Tricia Strickfaden’s love for the coast is what inspired this primarily self-taught abstract painter to leave her job in commercial and interior design and pursue her true artistic passion, painting. Strickfaden’s latest oil paintings include a series of atmospheric landscapes, seascapes and skyscapes.

“Anniversary Sunset,” painting by Tricia Strickfaden

“Anniversary Sunset,” painting by Tricia Strickfaden

Rob Waxman, a former professional beach volleyball player and businessman, also left his previous careers after picking up a paintbrush in 2004. Waxman’s paintings were quickly bought by wetsuit companies such as Body Glove and O’Neill Wetsuits. Although many artists are distinctive and captivating, Waxman’s keen sense of composition and perspective give his work a unique style.

The threesome was not chosen at random, Martin says. “The three artists are all Manhattan Beach locals. I am familiar with their work and have been following them for some time.

“The exhibition,” she adds, “will introduce these artists to the community and highlight some of the South Bay’s most iconic spots, such as the Six Man Volleyball, the Mermaid in Hermosa Beach, the Green Store, [and] the Manhattan Beach pier. We will also feature two classic surfboards made by Hap Jacobs and Brad Stevenson.”

California Crusin’ opens tomorrow (Friday) with a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Creative Arts Center, 1560 Manhattan Beach Blvd., M.B. Hours, Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to 6 p.m., Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. Through August 15. Call (310) 802-5440 or go to citymb.info.

 

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