Converge+Vertex: Traversing the Minor Gesture of Timelines

The Pete & Susan Barret Art Gallery, located in the Performing Arts Center of Santa Monica College (SMC), is hosting the art exhibition “Converge+Vertex: Traversing the Minor Gesture of Timelines” in conjunction with The Black Lunch Table. Held from Sept. 21, 2024 to May 11, 2025, the exhibition features the work of 11 black artists from the Los Angeles area. The exhibition invites visitors to explore themes such as intergenerational connection, identity, and resilience through a variety of mediums including textiles, sculptures, collage and painting. 

This exhibition was created by Santa Monica College (SMC) students under the leadership of the interdisciplinary artist Cole M. James. Through their curated work, these students show the influence of black artists on their communities and across timelines. 

When entering the gallery, Alicia Piller’s large sculpture “Bloody Roots. Drowning. TILL Rescue.” dominates the space. This work is created of vinyl, resin, recycled materials, and inner tubes, making the piece feel alive and in movement. This piece explores themes of memory, grief, and renewal, with its references to the 2022 film ‘Till’ and its layers of objects.  

Nearby, “In His Shoes” by Ronn Davis, an oil painting, invites the viewer to reflect on identity and legacy with bright colors and details. Davis’s “In The Zone,” a mixed-media piece made of dice, pistachio shells, wood, metal and oil, adds another dimension and shows his ability to combine unexpected materials to create something cohesive.

On the same wall, William Ransom’s “You Can’t Love Your Country Only When You Win” and “Taser” address bold messages about patriotism. These sculptures, made of wood, burned material and clothing, are impactful and challenge the viewer to reflect on societal issues. 

Leah King’s collages are also at the center of the exhibition. “Bruce”, made of paper, diamond dust, and wood panel, is used as the poster for the exhibition.“Black Leisure, 1968” uses bright colors, rhinestones, and historical photos to honor black joy. In addition, “Untitled (Tuskegee Airman, Poet, Dancer)” blends personal and historical themes, telling stories of family and legacy. 

Michael Massenburg’s “Men’s Day” and “Spiritual Nature” are colorful and dynamic paintings highlighting community life and spirituality with warmth and welcoming energy.

Lavialle Campbell’s fabrics, including “Kente #4,” “A Little Red,” and “Gwen,” are elegant and minimalist. Inspired by African textiles, her work uses geometric patterns and clean lines to cultivate a modern feel while honoring the cultural tradition.

Closing the exhibit, Kimberly Morris’s “Masquerade” displays a powerful photograph that critiques beauty standards and identity. The piece layers textures with photography to ask important questions about race and self-perception.

Each piece of art in “Converge+Vertex” is an invitation to reflect on themes of resilience, heritage, and community. The Gallery, with its white walls and minimalist design, provides a space for visitors to engage with the works, a place to connect and learn about personal yet universally relevant stories. 

The exhibit runs through May 2025 at the Pete & Susan Barrett Art Gallery. For more information, visit https://www.smc.edu/barrett/current-exhibition.html