The City of Santa Clarita is pleased to present its latest art exhibition, “Spirit of the West,”on view in the First Floor Gallery at City Hall (23920 Valencia Boulevard) now through May 20, 2026. This juried showcase celebrates the legacy, landscapes and cultural imagery of the American West, inviting viewers to reflect on its history, traditions and evolving identity. From desert vistas and rugged terrain to horses and frontier life, “Spirit of the West” explores the stories and symbolism that continue to shape Western identity while highlighting its influence on contemporary artistic expression.
Among the featured artists is Xu Joseph Zhou, whose work reflects a deep connection to the landscapes of the American West. “From open deserts to coastal horizons and mountain ranges, I am continually moved by the scale, light and quiet strength of these environments,” Zhou shares, describing them as symbols of “freedom, resilience and possibility.” Interpreting Western scenery through the lens of Eastern painting philosophy, he seeks to convey Qi, “the vital energy that animates nature and all living things.” By combining mineral pigments and acrylic with layered textures and fluid brushwork, Zhou creates a dialogue between cultures while reflecting his personal journey of belonging within the land he paints.
The exhibiting artists include: Faye Abharian, Rosalie Kessing Annison, Jed R Baguio, Lisa Barr, Claudia Buchinsky, Craig Cartwright, Elizabeth Chislett, Tina Chong, Alex Marie Coons, Susan Contrerad, Helaine Cummins, Ginger DeValue, Joe Doherty, Zachary Dominguez, Meghann Flaherty, Rich Gallego, Meryl Goudey, Keiji Ichikawa, Tim Song Jones, Allison Lauricella, Jennifer Tang Limon, Mary Main, Mark Micchio, John Moffitt, Laurie Morgan, Nancy Perkins, Sally Raskoff, Lisa Schindewolf, Maria A Schneider, Carolyn Sell, Rose Smither, Jayme Sun Thomas, Therese Verner, Xu Joseph Zhou.
The featured photo is “A Thousand Miles from Home” by Xu Joseph Zhou.