Atra: Inside the Life of an Artist & Defying Expectations Closing Reception December 12, 2010

Step inside the lives of seven Oceanside artists in the new documentary by Director Benjamin Nelson. Artra: Inside the Life of An Artist follows artists Raymond Lafferty, Joey Chavez, James Luna, Maurice Caldwell Jr., Tia Harper, Chris Chouinard, and Ben Owen on their year-long journey to make a name for themselves in the art community. Featured heavily in the film is artist Raymond Lafferty and his challenges in becoming part of the seminal contemporary Native American exhibition at OMA Defying Expectations: Contemporary Native American Art from the San Diego Region. Lafferty, a member of the Mesa Grande Band, is the first in his tribe to be an abstract painter. The screening also marks the last chance for visitors to enjoy Defying Expectations, as the exhibition closes at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 12. The film preview is free with admission ($8, $5 for seniors 65+) and free for OMA members, students and military. This Lepidus Films documentary aims to demystify the illusion of how art is projects that everyone has the creative capability and determination to become an artist.

Official Website: http://www.oma-online.org