Display Case at the Library
Public Art Display Case at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center
The Public Art Committee announces the availability of a museum-quality display case for small exhibitions of three-dimensional art or other objects of cultural or historical interest. The public art display case dimensions are: Width: 58.5”, Depth 23.5”, and Visible glass height 17.5”.
How to Apply
Exhibitors interested in displaying work in the case must submit a complete Display Case Exhibition Application and executed Art Gallery Release to the City. These forms may be accessed by clicking on Display Case Art Exhibit Packet.
Applications shall be reviewed by the Public Art Committee at its regular monthly meetings. Scheduling of exhibitions is dependent upon availability.
Please provide the following:
- Exhibition Statement: The exhibition statement should describe the proposed exhibit and explain the concept behind the collection of materials you have proposed for the exhibit. You might consider addressing the inspiration behind the collection, why you chose to include these pieces, and how you see them working together as a cohesive exhibit.
- Artist Bio: Your artist bio should provide an overview of your artistic background. This might include your chosen medium, how you became involved in it, your educational background, and any exhibition experience you may have. The bio can be written in either first or third person, and the length is entirely up to you.
- Complete list of items or works proposed for exhibit
- Images of items or works proposed for exhibit with dimensions of the items (no slides or discs)
- Additional information about the exhibit that would help the Committee in its review of your application
- Signed Art Gallery Release
Contact Staff Liaison Jenny Rosen for more information.
Location
The public art display case is located in an alcove at the top of the stairs off of the main entrance to the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, located at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette, CA 94549.
Hours
The display case is viewable during library hours. Please check the Lafayette Library and Learning Center for more details.
NOW ON VIEW
Exploring My Roots Through Folk and Tribal Art
Rashmi Rao
October - December 2024
Exhibition Statement
Driven by a desire to reconnect with my cultural roots, I began this project as a 100-day challenge to immerse myself in Indian folk and tribal art. Each week focused on a different traditional style, offering a deep dive into age-old art forms. The project evolved into an ongoing journey and has been an incredibly enriching experience.
I chose Pantone cards as my canvas, reflecting my background in graphic design, and used Sakura Pigma black microtip pens, Posca markers, and gouache to blend vibrant colors with the precision of traditional techniques.
Each style—Kalamkari, Madhubani, Gond, and Warli—taught me valuable lessons in patience and focus. Warli, from Maharashtra, depicts everyday life with simple forms, while Kalamkari’s intricate patterns are traditionally painted with natural dyes. Madhubani features geometric and nature-inspired motifs, and Gond art draws from mythical and folkloric imagery.This project has deepened my understanding of these art forms and strengthened my connection to my heritage, honoring the traditions that inspired me.
Artist Biography
I'm Rashmi Rao, a multidisciplinary artist and designer with a background in Chemistry from India and further studies in cosmetology, graphic design, and fine art in the U.S. With over a decade of experience as a graphic artist, my work spans various mediums and has been exhibited in galleries and hospitals across the Bay Area. I’ve participated in juried shows like Art Under the Oaks, Freshworks at Harrington Gallery, and Imagination Expressed at the Museum on Main.
My art includes floral drawings, lifelike animal portraits, and vibrant pastels, with a special interest in mandalas and alcohol inks. Inspired by nature and my Indian heritage, I continually explore new textures and techniques. When not creating art, I enjoy teaching, dancing, hiking, and practicing mindfulness.
For inquiries: www.rashmiraodesigns.com
PAST EXHIBITS
History of Lafayette Libraries
2023 - 2024
Ukrainian Song
2023
This companion display to Yana Verba's exhibit, Ukrainian Song, in the Community Hall Gallery, featured a collection of books about Ukrainian art.
Dislocations
September 2022
Curated by Carl Heyward and Akiko Suzuki, Dislocations featured handcrafted books created by the Global Art Project, an international collaborative collective of 70+ artists.