Sun Gallery proudly presents “California Dreamin’,” a vibrant new group exhibition celebrating the beauty, diversity and creative spirit of California through the eyes of local artists and young emerging creators. The exhibition brings together a dynamic collection of artwork inspired by the landscapes, culture, dreams and stories that make California unique.
From bold abstract paintings and mixed-media works to imaginative sculpture and expressive contemporary pieces, “California Dreamin’” invites visitors to explore what California means on both a personal and collective level. The exhibition showcases the work of talented local artists from across the community, each offering their own interpretation of California’s energy—its coastlines, colors, people, resilience and endless possibilities.
Participating Artists:
Deborah Gallegos, Jon Kerpel, Rick Wise, Patra Rae Nesseth-Steffes, David Steffes, Patrick Lugo, Valerie Caveglia, Jerrald Loche, Mary Ann Davis, Al McGaughey, Winnie & Gerry Thompson, Dorsi Diaz, Linda Nygard, Pat Doyne, Peter & Maureen Langenbach, Kaitlin Cruey, Linnette Tompkins, Heidi Parks, Natalie Juntz, Barbara Handis, Al Janske, EstDeVon Haislip, Lisa Brunner, and the 2026 Sun Gallery Summer Art Camp.
A special highlight of the exhibition includes artwork created by students from the Sun Gallery 2026 Summer Art Camp, whose creativity adds a joyful and inspiring dimension to the show. Their pieces reflect the wonder, optimism and fearless imagination of young artists. One standout work, a colorful rainbow artwork created by a camper, beautifully captures the spirit of the exhibition—hopeful, playful and full of possibility.
“California has always represented dreams, reinvention and creative freedom,” said Sun Gallery curator Dorsi Diaz. “This exhibition celebrates not only the incredible talent in our local arts community, but also the voices of young artists who remind us to keep dreaming big. ‘California Dreamin’’ is about joy, connection and the many ways art helps us see ourselves and each other.”
“California has always represented dreams, reinvention and creative freedom,” said Sun Gallery curator Dorsi Diaz. “This exhibition celebrates not only the incredible talent in our local arts community, but also the voices of young artists who remind us to keep dreaming big. ‘California Dreamin’’ is about joy, connection and the many ways art helps us see ourselves and each other.”
An artists reception for “California Dreamin’” is planned on Saturday, June 27, from 12 to 3pm, including beverages and light appetizers. At the same time that day, local artist, teacher and co-curator Lamberto Roque Hernandez will have an artist reception inside the Ken Cook Room at the Sun Gallery for “The Immigrant Experience.”
Hernandez, originally from San Martin Tilcajete, in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, uses acrylic paint and incorporates natural materials such as cochineal, charcoal and dirt, with colors extracted from plants, red peppers and mushrooms.
On Saturdays, from 11am to 1pm, Hernandez will be doing hands-on demonstrations working with cochineal, a traditional Oaxaca dye technique. Those interested in the demos can email the gallery at in**@********ry.org. Donations to the gallery are encouraged.
In tandem with “California Dreamin’” and “The Immigrant Experience,” a special presentation of the “Interactive Dreamers Exhibit” is installed inside the main gallery. Local artists Peter and Maureen Langenbach designed and created the large wooden “Dreamers” letters, which have been shown at the gallery and displayed during local events in the East Bay. Visitors are invited to sign the installation and leave messages of hope and encouragement for our California Dreamers.
Sun Gallery invites the public to experience this uplifting exhibition and celebrate the power of art to build community, inspire dialogue and spark imagination across generations. California Dreamin’ offers something for everyone—whether you are a lifelong art lover, a family seeking inspiration, or someone simply looking to reconnect with the creative spirit of California.
California Dreamin’
Through Friday, Jul 31
Mon: 10am-1pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-5pm
Sun Gallery
1015 E St., Hayward
sungallery.org
