Red Oak’s DEI Action Committee was pleased to host the first in a series of art exhibits highlighting commitment to community, inclusion and centering the richness of talent in groups that have often been excluded. The works of two accomplished East Bay artists, Anna W. Edwards and Stephen Bruce are currently featured. They drew an enthusiastic crowd to Red Oak’s El Cerrito office for the opening reception.*
Anna is an abstract painter who also owns a gallery in San Leandro. She spent her childhood in the Sugar Hill neighborhood near Harlem, where she was steeped in the inspiration of legendary jazz musicians and the urban landscape.
“I began to see how there was a direct correlation between what happened in the outer and my inner thought patterns. As this exploration continues, my artwork is focusing more on the Spiritual landscape of the individual. My aim is to produce paintings that are soothing and comforting to see and enjoy. In my Spiritual quest I have begun to see each person and event as a link in the chain for my continued growth.” - Anna Edwards
Stephen applies different acids to create stunning patinas on copper and brass. The resulting compositions vary in color and texture and evoke oceans and geological forms. He was raised in Sacramento, and now has a studio in Richmond, where a dynamic art community thrives. Stephen also works with kids through the non-profit, SkidMore Project engaging their natural curiosity as art and science play together.
“My biggest influence is the greatest artist ever, Mother Earth. Every minute she is producing a new masterpiece. Some are etched into the canvas we call Earth. Most are washed away with time. Their beauty can be so subtle that many don't even take notice, while others are so spectacular, we revisit them again and again. She is prolific, but humble. Her significance is present in every piece I create.” - Stephen Bruce
Please stop by the Red Oak office in El Cerrito, to see this impressive exhibit in person; the show will be on display until June 15th. The DEI Action Committee will continue using the space to elevate and promote artists from our local BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community, so stay tuned for future exhibits. If you are or know an artist who might want to participate, reach out!
*Refreshments provided by mortgage professionals Brenda Wyatt and Faramarz Moeen-Ziai. We also thank Realtor Catherine Stern for bringing these talented artists to Red Oak. All the art is available for purchase.
