In the Arts

A deep, artistic look into evil

Ashkan Honarvar’s art represents an analysis of human nature and a search for the wellspring of evil, dormant in every person.

At his West Coast premiere, Honarvar will showcase “The Crust” — an examination of the concept of evil within the framework of history and differing cultures. Divided into five chapters, this show deals with the genetic makeup of the human body and also, societal dichotomies of good and evil.

CES Contemporary at 480 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach will present Honarvar’s artwork from Jan. 19 through Feb. 17. Along with appointments, the gallery welcomes visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.

The Iran-born Honarvar, a collage artist who is now based in Norway, will attend the opening reception from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday.

For more information, visit https://www.cescontemporary.com or call (949) 547-1716.

*

College’s masters of the arts on display at City Hall

Artwork by the Laguna College of Art and Design’s Master of Fine Arts Department will be on display at City Hall through March 9. This 12-piece show presents oil, acrylic and charcoal work, as well as still lifes and portraits.

A reception will be hosted at 505 Forest Ave. starting at 5 p.m. Feb. 7. Funding for this program is obtained from the lodging establishments and city of Laguna Beach.

For more information, visit https://www.lcad.edu/site/mfa/ or https://www.lagunabeachcity.net.

*

Laguna band gets $500 grant

The 65-plus-member Laguna Concert Band recently garnered a $500 grant from the Laguna Beach Community Foundation.

The band, which has its home stage at The Laguna Playhouse, will use the funds to benefit programs and operations. Music director Ed Peterson and band ambassador Carol Reynolds accepted the award from Laura Tarbox, chair of the LBCF Board of Trustees.

“The Laguna Beach Community Foundation was founded and exists today as a symbol of our deep love for Laguna Beach and our desire to make a difference in the quality of life in Laguna Beach,” LBCF Grants Committee Chair Cathy Krinsky said during the award ceremony, which reflected donations by Donnie Crevier, Susie and Jim Jaqua, John L. Campbell Insurance Agency and others.

For more information, visit https://www.lagunabeachcf.org or https://www.lagunaconcertband.com.

—Rhea Mahbubani

@RMahbubani