The Verge Center for the Art’s original documentary series About the Artist: Making Art in the Golden State premiers Thursday, July 22 with an episode featuring alum and Sacramento-based artist Manuel Fernando Rios (M.F.A., ‘11). The new film series which highlights local artists also showcases the work of alum from the Department of Art and Art History. In this first episode, Rios talks about the importance of mentorship, how he explores his Chicano identity and stereotypes in his artwork, the symbols and compositional elements he employs in his paintings to tell visual narratives, and more. 

About the Artist: Making Art in the Golden State spotlights California-based career artists from a diverse range of backgrounds and disciplines. Each documentary takes the viewer into the artist’s studio, where the artist reveals the challenges, the rewards, the hard work, and the time it takes to follow their artistic calling. Future episodes will feature Sacramento-based artists Muzi Li Rowe (M.F.A, ‘17), Nikki Thompson, Omonivie Okhade, and Gioia Fonda. 

Behind the scenes, alum Liv Moe (B.A., Art Studio, ‘05), the Verge’s Executive Director and Justina Martino (M.A., Art History, ‘15), Public Engagement and Outreach Manager, produced the series. 

Screening at 7 pm. Doors open at 6 pm with a Happy Hour from 6-7 pm. 

An online screening is available as well. Get tickets for the onsite and online viewing here.

Verge Center for the Arts
625 S Street, Sacramento CA

All unvaccinated individuals will be required to wear a mask when inside the facility. Vaccinated individuals will be required to show their vaccination cards at the door.