'Passage Through Shadows,' by Nagham Naim depicts two figures in shades of blue, purple and gold. (Courtesy photo)
‘Passage Through Shadows,’ a painting by Nagham Naim. (Courtesy photo)

The county of Santa Barbara Arts Fund presents Brush and Beyond: An examination of the human condition, on view March 21-May 9 at the Arts Fund Community Gallery, La Cumbre Plaza, 120 S. Hope Ave., Santa Barbara.

Featuring regional artists, the exhibit is curated by John Hood, professor of art at Allan Hancock College.

There will be an opening reception at 5 p.m. March 21 during La Cumbre Plaza Art Walk. The event will include light refreshments, live painting, and a chance to meet the artists.

Brush and Beyond spotlights Paulo Lima and Nagham Naim, Santa Barbara County artists using diverse media to explore complex topics particularly relevant in our world today.

Sankofa on Gear, a sculpture by Paulo Lima, depicts the head of an individual wearing colorful earrings with shells. (Courtesy photo)
Sankofa on Gear is a sculpture by Paulo Lima. (Courtesy photo)

“The figurative works by Nagham, a Syrian refugee, capture her perilous and determined journey to reach the U.S. in search of a better life,” Hood said.

“Paulo’s mixed media works are inspired by 19th century Brazilian religious figures, dressed to be displayed in churches or carried during processions,” he said.

“The artists of Brush and Beyond demonstrate the possibilities of what visual art can achieve, while making it approachable and inclusive,” Hood said.

“Santa Barbara County is home to a wonderfully diverse community of artists and patrons who appreciate variety in creative perspectives,” he said.

“This exhibit addresses a wide range of subject matter, and offers a chance to enjoy a unique blend of painting, sculpture, and mixed media,” he said.

Learn more about the Arts Fund at https://artsfundsb.org. To donate, click here.