WE’RE OPEN

VISION.

To share, showcase and promote different artistic expressions of emerging and aspiring artists as well as bridging established artists to the new generations and the community at large.

MISSION.

The mission of OPEN Center for the Arts is to provide a space where all artists can come together to share, showcase, refine, and develop their talents as well as support entrepreneurship opportunities in the arts while connecting their growth to the community.

HISTORY.

Among the sounds of dishes and drums in the corners of Mexican restaurants, a group of young artists gathered to talk about art and future exhibits. They dreamt about having their own place where art spilled over into the community and where artists could help one another grow. In 2004, Omar Magaña’s building became the backdrop for their movement. Expresiones Artisticas became the epicenter that grew out of those late-night bashes where artists shared hopes and dreams. It was a grassroots art collective where resident artists planned exhibits on the ground floor of 2214 S. Sacramento Ave. In 2008, the dream was put on hold after a fire took down the building. Today, a new group of artists, entrepreneurs, educators and community leaders have gathered to rebuild the dream with a new added component, to include the community at large in the growth.

"OPEN to all ideas and possibilities, to everyone and anyone, to all creativity in all forms, to all organizations local and international, to all the worlds.
We are OPEN."

Omar

WHO’S OPEN

J. Omar Magana

Executive Director & Founder, Board Member

Omar is the founder of OPEN Center for the Arts. He is a self-taught sculptor and entrepreneur who currently focuses on interior reclaimed furniture design... read more

Roy Villalobos

Media Director, Board Member

Roy is an internationally recognized graphic designer, painter, and muralist. He has held conferences and workshops and his works have been exhibited... read more

Lilly Torres

Operations Director, Board Member

Lilly brings strategic insight and direction in operations. She is currently the Operations Manager at the People’s Music School where she has remained for... read more

Alma Dominguez

Event Director, Board Member

Alma has more than 15 years of experience as an educator, promoter and writer in the creativity & artistic sectors. She is the founder and coordinator of... read more

Ivan Torres

Financial Director, Board Member

Ivan brings insight and strategic vision to the organization. He is currently the manager of Green Energies LLC which specializes in contract law... read more