Happy Medium

 Is art a “happy" medium? Is it required to be angst-ridden, cynical or self-indulgent to be considered provocative or authentic?

Can a "happy medium" be attained in life? Will the endless pursuit of "more" remain the status quo?

Is modern technology a happy “medium?” Has the internet and other modes of communication aided in society's happiness?
The Orange County Center for Contemporary Art (OCCCA) announces three dazzling California artists, Stephen Anderson, Donald Gialanella and Kebe Fox in a three person exhibit opening June 7th, 2014. The trio navigates through life’s ultimate pursuit, exploring the concept of happiness in this multi-media exhibition featuring three-dimensional paintings/collage, sculpture and installation.

The exhibit begs the question: Is art a “happy" medium? Is it required to be angst-ridden, cynical or self-indulgent to be considered provocative or authentic? Can a “happy medium” be attained in life? Will the endless pursuit of "more" remain the status quo? Is modern technology a happy “medium?” Has the internet and other modes of communication aided in society's happiness?

Stephen Anderson received his BFA from California University Long Beach, and creates artwork from his studio in Santa Ana California. Recent exhibits include the solo site specific installation / environment; Amusings, Hauntings, Wantings, which included 9 videos; (6 on monitors, 3 projected) a collaborative audio piece synched to video, fiber optic lights, kinetic, and interactive elements. He is currently the executive director of the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art (OCCCA.)

Kebe Fox's painting of a mystic manipulating the strings and soul of a crystal ball was the initial inspiration behind the title and theme of Happy Medium. In addition to his three-dimensional paintings, Kebe will showcase mixed media and suspended work as well. Happy Medium follows 2010’s Father Material exhibition and being named Best Visual Artist of 2013 by the OC Weekly. Fox has been exhibiting his art, publishing the zine Lost Art and performing as Dancing Lethargic throughout California for over 15 years.

Donald Gialanella’s recent commissions include projects from the cities of Napa and Pasadena, both in 2013. He was commissioned by the Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, CA, for a landmark lobby sculpture in 2014. Last summer he was asked to create an Orb sculpture entitled Motherboard Earth by Arrow Electronics, an international electronics firm based in Denver, CO. Gialanella’s background includes credits as an Emmy winning broadcast graphics producer.