Galan’s 'Remedios (Remedies)' Solo exhibition - at the Santa Paula Art Museum

On September 17th, 2022, I celebrated the opening reception of my ‘Remedios’ exhibition at the Santa Paula Art Museum. I began my "Organ Series" in 2019. Having grown to appreciate the connection between the physical body, particularly the gut, and mental health, I now look to the foods and healing practices passed down by my ancestors to help treat my body and mind. The ongoing series combines the universal archetypes of the lungs, brain, and heart with symbolic imagery from contemporary Chicanx culture and cuisine. With each artwork, I try to remind myself and others of their inherent strength (cactus lungs), wisdom (corn brain), and light (pomegranate heart).

For more information click here: Santa Paula Art Museum

805 Living

I’ve spent the last semester working so hard during clinical practice to implement the teaching strategies that I’ve learned. So much so that I barely had time to [create] ART myself. School is over now and I feel confident about teaching! I’m finally painting my emotions away. When you plant seeds, be patient, they will unveil themselves to the world when they’re ready. Welcome to the garden of my mind. Let it spread joy in our hearts and bring hope to all who’ve endured this pandemic. So many great things have happened since school has ended including my first “official” teaching job for summer school Distance Learning grades 6-8th. The program went smoothly and I can’t wait to continue the journey as more good news spreads into my life. I’d like to thank 805 Living Magazine for featuring me in their July issue. I am mesmerized by the fact they asked me to feature my mural triptych “The Garden” on the cover of the magazine as well as a two-page spread of my journey. Thank you to all my supporters and my community for believing in the Arts and seeing how the arts can uplift us all during this pandemic. I cannot wait to continue to share my journey.

All my best,

John Galan

‘The Garden’ - John Galan Art cover for 805 Living Magazine

Tiapapata Art Centre, Samoa 2019

In June of 2019 I was invited to teach for one month at Creative Samoa Artist Residency, Samoa. It was such an honor for me to get to know the local community while teaching all kinds of learners. Some days consisted of teaching young adults, teen youth, after school kids classes, adult workshops, and classes for persons with mental disabilities. I hope one day I can return to teach and spend more time admiring the beauty of the Island and its people.

Samoan Red

Angeleno

Big shout out and thank you to friends and family who’ve supported me along the way. On November 2, 2019 I had the largest exhibit of my career which took place at Hollywood Forever Cemetery’s Dia de los Muertos Festival. I was honored to share my work with the fifty thousand attendees. The show focused on migrations and was tied to the migratory flights of Monarch butterflies. So much great news has come my way in 2020 and I am grateful and excited to share the journey!

Malibu, California

Painting outdoors is my favorite past time, especially when in good company. Fortunate to have painted the beautiful coastline of Leo Carillo State Beach. The most exhilarating aspect of painting en plein air for me, is constantly paint the changing light. It is a reflection of the beauty, fragility, of life in flux. Capturing that moment fills me with peace.

‘Ocean light’ Malibu, California

New Year 2019

The rains have finally come to Southern California, bringing snow and causing panic amongst Angelino’s. I found my way up into the mountain region of Big Bear Lake Community where thousands have flocked to explore in the vast white. It’s the second time in my life I’ve had snow fall on my face, and even more exciting my first time painting it!

Happy 2019 Folks.

John Galan Art, Big Bear Lake

2018 Recap

So much happened in 2018, its only fitting to share my experience. After Hawaii I attended a month’s residency at Main Street Arts Gallery in New York. ‘Falling Water’ a 5ft. round canvas painting was born from that journey through the finger lakes region in NY.

I decided to go back to school to attain my teaching credentials and Masters of Education. I made this decision after realizing that I’ve been teaching Art for the last four years. I’ve already learned so much Fall semester and am eager to soak up the knowledge.

Feeling fortunate to have exhibited works with Chimmaya Art Gallery and El Comalito Collective.

My heart goes out to the surrounding communities of the Conejo Valley region for the loss of thirteen beautiful souls during the Borderline shootings as well as those who were affected by the Paradise, Woolsey and Hill Fires.

Holiday Break provided much needed painting time. Cheers to an incredible 2018!