The Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA) is proud to present “Transformative Currents: Art and Action in the Pacific Ocean,” an exhibition that merges art and science to explore the cultural and environmental challenges facing the Pacific Ocean. This exhibit, part of the Getty’s PST ART: Art & Science Collide initiative, will run from August 17, 2024, through January 19, 2025, offering a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of our actions and their impact on the ocean.
Exploring the Pacific Ocean Through Art
“Transformative Currents” features the work of 21 contemporary artists who use diverse media—including video, sculpture, drawings, and photography—to highlight the complexities of the Pacific Ocean’s ecological and cultural landscapes. The exhibition is organized around the metaphor of ocean currents, which symbolize fluidity, interconnectivity, and collective responsibility.
The exhibition is the first of its kind in Southern California to bring together such a geographically diverse range of perspectives, bridging artistic, scientific, and Indigenous knowledge systems. Through four critical themes—Research-based Practices, Oceanic Reciprocity, Sited Art Actions, and Futuring in the Present—visitors are invited to explore the multifaceted issues facing the Pacific Ocean and its communities.
A Call to Action
“Transformative Currents” is not just about showcasing art; it’s a call to recognize our shared responsibility in preserving the ocean’s health. The exhibition emphasizes that local actions have global consequences, and through art, we can inspire positive ecological change.
The physical installation at OMA will guide visitors through a journey that mirrors the movement of ocean currents, from the surface to the deep sea. Additionally, the exhibition includes satellite installations at the Orange County Museum of Art and Crystal Cove Conservancy, further expanding its impact.
Join the Conversation
“Transformative Currents” is more than an exhibition—it’s an invitation to engage with the issues affecting our oceans and to consider how art can inspire change. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the power of art and action in the Pacific Ocean. For more information, visit the Oceanside Museum of Art’s website.