John Wayne Airport has added a splash of color and art to its terminals with a new ceramics exhibition titled "Regolith." Travelers can now enjoy a vibrant collection of ceramic works by artists Nobu Nishigawara and Brian Rochefort, brought together under the keen eye of curator Heather Bowling. This show isn't just a casual look at pottery; it dives into the deeper connections between Earth's geology and the layered experiences of the artists.
In an exhibit that's both personal and planetary, Nishigawara brings his immigrant roots into play. He's a professor at Cal State Fullerton, who knows a thing or two about the dichotomy of living between cultures. His series, "Qualia," encourages visitors to find peace in the space between—the Japanese concept of Ma (間). "The range in form, scale, and textures reflects the complexities of the mind, perception, and human nature," details a release from the John Wayne Airport. Each piece stands as a testament to the balance Nishigawara seeks between his internal self and the external world.
Meanwhile, Rochefort's mixed-media sculptures add another layer of depth to the collection. They're explosive in color and form, drawing from his travels to vibrant ecosystems around the globe. "These sculptures come from a deep sense of reverence for the remote places I’ve traveled, such as cloud forests in Latin America, and the dry, endless stretches of East Africa," Rochefort told the curators at John Wayne Airport. His work isn't concerned with straight representation but rather capturing the essence and memory of these landscapes in his signature style. It's as if each of his creations is a wild geological event frozen in time.
The "Regolith" exhibition can be found post-security at the Vi Smith Terminal B Gallery, located across from Gate 14, becoming an exclusive showcase for those passing through the airport. If you're not on a flight but still want to catch these earthly creations, snag an OC AirPASS from Information Booths on the arrivals level. Remember, you'll need a RealID, passport, or similar document to lay eyes on these pieces. The exhibit is a fine reason to arrive early for a flight or, for true art lovers, maybe even a reason to take a trip to the airport expressly. For more details on how to access this art world amidst the hustle of travel, visit John Wayne Airport Arts Program.
