Escapism is defined as, “the tendency to seek distraction and relief from unpleasant realities, especially by seeking entertainment or engaging in fantasy.” This exhibit embodies the realities that these artists explored during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the daily and Constant reminder of the new life under Covid, our students sought outlets to escape their isolation. Through their painting, drawing, and sculptures, these seniors have used art to combat circumstances beyond their control, setting their minds free through their creativity and imagination.

Jiarong Bi focuses on painting and sketching and is from Oak Park, California. She takes inspiration from music, film, and expressionism. Lauren Graf is a mixed media artist from Carpinteria who draws her inspiration from vintage aesthetics and art nouveau illustrations. Through her art she seeks out a more beautiful reality with a fantastical twist. Combining elements of beauty and horror, Nicolas Hayes from Los Angeles getters inspiration from sci-fi and fantasy to create sculptural pieces that seek to exploit the aesthetic pleasure of the uncanny. Born and raised in Hawaii, mixed media artist Nicole Ishii looks at her native Hawaiian culture in a new light through her artwork. Jasmine Alexandra O is a Thousand Oaks-based multimedia artist, honing her skills in the field of arts and creating artwork that explores imaginative realism.