Upcoming Exhibitions

The Cypress Photography Department is pleased to present Arnoldo Vargas’s solo exhibition, MOSAIC. Curated by JM Valenzuela.

A mosaic or  “tlatzacualli ” is an ancient indigenous art form that uses small pieces of turquoise or jade to create images or patterns on masks, regalia, or vessels for ceremonial purposes. The term also refers to anything made of diverse components that form a whole. Arnoldo Vargas’ Mosaic began in 1999, when, as a student at UCLA, he felt the need to create a series of portraits to make space for his complex and diverse community, which is often overlooked and erased. Now, as a father and art educator, the mosaic continues to grow in the face of continued attacks on communities of color in Los Angeles and the entire country. Now the work includes not only family and friends, but also the students he works with. Part of being a father and a teacher is instilling in our children and students the ability to stand strong in the face of adversity and future challenges. Now, more than ever, it is important to put a face to a community under attack. It is important to acknowledge the humanity of the people who continue to endure until the struggle to survive transforms into a community that thrives.

Please join us for the opening reception on Thursday, February 12, 6 - 8 pm.

The exhibition will remain on view from February 12 to April 16, 2026

MOSAIC is part of Foto SoCal