Non-Objective Lessons- A Survey of San Diego Abstract Art celebrates the region’s long-standing tradition of abstraction, experimentation, and boundary-pushing artistic inquiry. Drawing inspiration from influential figures such as John Baldessari, Robert Irwin and Bob Matheny, the exhibition brings together artists who continue San Diego’s legacy of conceptual play, non-objective exploration, and material rebellion. Through assemblage, minimalism, and unexpected interventions, the featured works examine the tension between structure and improvisation, and the joyful misbehavior that defines much of the city’s avant-garde.
The exhibition features works by a mix of artists affiliated with Space 4 Art and Art Produce, as well as other local practitioners who engage in abstract and non-objective art-making. This exhibit features artists: Melissa Walter, Xavier Dionne, Joey Thurston, Kaori Fukuyama, Jonny Hoolko, Jennifer de Poyen, May-ling Martinez, Lynn Susholtz, Andrew Alcasid, Meghan Augustine, Elijah Rubottom, Brennan Hubbell, Thomas DeMello, Michael James Armstrong
“San Diego has always been a place where abstraction moves freely,” noted curator Katie Ruiz. “There’s a wildness here, a willingness to experiment, to break rules, to question form itself. This exhibition reflects the unique artistic energy that has shaped the region for decades.”
Exhibition Details:
Title: Non-Objective Lessons
Curator: Katie Ruiz
Opening Reception: January 17, 2025 | 4–7 PM
Gallery Hours January 17-February 12, 2026 Fridays 12-6pm Saturdays 12-6pm
Location: Art Produce Gallery, 3139 University Ave., San Diego
Presented by: Space 4 Art in partnership with Art Produce
Supported by: The Prebys Foundation Arts Ecosystem Grant
For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact: Katie Ruiz katie@sdspace4art.org
The year-long programming partnership between Space 4 Art and Art Produce aims to expand support for local artists, deepen community engagement, and strengthen the city’s creative ecosystem through exhibitions, workshops, artist talks, and cross-organizational collaboration. The Prebys grant aims to help solve structural problems such as the lack of affordable arts spaces in which community-based groups like Space 4 Art can produce accessible arts programming. The Space 4 Art @ initiative provides a synergistic means for activation at Art Produce, which remains fiercely committed to building on decades of creative experimentation and community-building in North Park.