A RADICAL PERSPECTIVE Exhibition of the Work of G. Ray Kerciu

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A RADICAL PERSPECTIVE Exhibition of the Work of G. Ray Kerciu
Featuring the acclaimed 2018 documentary An Uncharted Journey by Dale Schierholt
Followed by a Community Tribute to G. Ray Kerciu with live music by tenor Rick Weber & Ryan Heflin Artist. Advocate. Champion.   Special Community Reception Sunday, August 16, 2026 | 3:00 p.m. Exhibition Continues Through September 2026 About the Exhibition A Radical Perspective, curated by Tom Lamb, presents an artistic anthology spanning the remarkable career of G. Ray Kerciu. From the iconic Civil Rights-era paintings that first brought him national attention to the powerful works of his later years, the exhibition traces the evolution of an artist whose convictions and creativity remained inseparable throughout his life. A Life of Courage In 1968, while teaching at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), G. Ray befriended the university’s first Black student admitted during segregation. Their friendship inspired him to organize an anti-segregation art exhibition. His actions led to his arrest, dismissal from the university, and national media attention. His arrest was reported in Time, Newsweek, and other national publications, bringing widespread attention to both the exhibition and the issues it confronted. A Legacy of Leadership G. Ray later helped establish the art program at California State University, Fullerton, where he inspired generations of artists. After settling in Laguna Beach, he became one of the community’s most respected cultural leaders, helping preserve the Laguna Art Museum and later serving as the first Board President of the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center. His leadership, integrity, and encouragement helped lay the foundation for an organization that continues to enrich the community through the arts.   A Special Musical Tribute G. Ray loved the music of Rick Weber, affectionately known as “Laguna’s Tenor,” and singer-songwriter and storyteller Ryan Heflin. Both are honored to perform in celebration of their friend, sharing songs that reflect the warmth, humor and spirit of the man we are gathering to remember. With Rick’s extraordinary voice and gift for bringing music to life through humor and heart, and Ryan’s deeply personal songs and storytelling, this special musical tribute promises to be one of the most moving moments of the evening. Join Us Experience this remarkable exhibition, enjoy a documentary celebrating G. Ray’s extraordinary life, and participate in a community tribute honoring a man whose legacy reminds us that art can challenge injustice, preserve history, strengthen community, and inspire future generations. Program 3:00 p.m. Reception & Gallery Viewing 3:45 p.m. Welcome Remarks 4:00 p.m. Documentary Screening – An Uncharted Journey 4:45 p.m. Remembering G. Ray Community Conversation 7:00 p.m. Reception Concludes