On the first Thursday of every month, the lively nightscape of downtown Riverside becomes even more vibrant as people explore museums, galleries, and studios that offer free admission. On the particular night of Thursday, February 6th, we wanted to make the most of this free event, the Riverside Art Walk, while spending the least amount of money. We found free parking using the Park Riverside app (free bus transportation also available via the RTA GoMobile app). As we made our way to UCR ARTS, a band played live music while passersby would stop and listen. Just a little further out were some canopies where people sold items from their small businesses or offered free crafting workshops. Since Valentine’s Day was approaching, the Riverside Public Library offered free mini bouquets. As we waited for our bouquets to be made, the volunteer explained the meaning of each flower as it related to the theme of love. We then looked around and noticed that most people were truly living in the moment, talking with one another or listening to the live music. Not a phone in sight.

Mini Flower Bouquet

[Image Credit: Kimberly Diaz]
[Image Description: mini flower bouquet in front of backdrop of Digital Capture exhibition]

Once we arrived at UCR ARTS, this art space was quite the opposite of what we had experienced outside. Physical screens, monitors, and more traditional art canvases encouraged us to observe and reflect upon the role of human technology. The installation, Follower, by Lauren Lee McCarthy, consists of fifteen JPGs displayed across a row of iPhone 7s, depicting how government and corporate bodies collect personal information. For the installation, Portable God, artist Nam June Paik reconfigures an antique altar into an artistic mixture of techno-Buddhism. For instance, the two monitors emphasize technology's and Buddhism's dualistic nature. As we and other visitors walked around the space, approaching each artwork attentively, we remained quiet to respect the art and each other. Community-building within an art space like this one is unique. Quiet movement and spatial awareness foster a sense of community where we ponder how technology influences our lives and the greater world.

Follower

[Image Credit: Follower by micha cárdenas photographed by Kimberly Diaz]
[Image Description: Rows of iPhones displayed on white wall]

[Image Credit: Portable God by Nam June Paik photographed by Hana Baig]
[Image Description: Buddhist shrine covered in Chinese and Korean characters with an early television model placed atop the altar]

As the next Riverside Art Walk approaches this April, certain galleries of Digital Capture will remain open (until April 13th) while UCR ARTS integrates a new exhibition. Many other art spaces exist, such as the Riverside Art Museum and the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture (The Cheech). To stay updated on local art events, follow @riversideartswalk on Instagram where they post about upcoming music spotlights, local talent, and exhibits. The Riverside Art Walk is the perfect choice for UCR graduate students seeking a unique and free event, especially as a way to be in community with people outside of the University setting or just to get to know the city. You can also sign up to participate as a live painter or musician (via Instagram). Take a break, relax, and bask in downtown Riverside’s incredible art scene.