Meet & Greet the Artists Reception: Steele Canyon High School Students
Alebrijes are brightly colored fantastical creatures rooted in Mexican folk art traditions. Originally created by artist Pedro Linares in the 1930s after experiencing vivid dreamlike visions, alebrijes combine features from different animals to form imaginative hybrid creatures full of symbolism, creativity, and spirit. Today, alebrijes are celebrated throughout Mexico and beyond for their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and cultural significance.
This exhibition features a mixture of beginning and advanced artwork created by Steele Canyon High School 3-D Design students from Ms. Barnett’s class. Our class always incorporates recycled materials into projects as a way to promote creativity, problem-solving, and environmental awareness through artmaking. Students explored the art of alebrije sculpture using a variety of recycled and mixed-media materials.
Advanced students constructed large-scale alebrijes using recycled newspaper, masking tape, wire armatures, plaster bandages, Model Magic, and acrylic paint. Beginning students created painted alebrije forms using recycled mat-board from discarded framing materials and acrylic paint. Through this project, students learned about form, balance, color theory, pattern, craftsmanship, and the importance of cultural storytelling through art.
When: Miércoles, Junio 10th, 2026 | 6-7 PM
Where: Grossmont Healthcare District’s Health & Wellness Library (9001 Wakarusa St., La Mesa, CA 91942)
RSVP: Call 619.825.5010, email library@grossmonthealthcare.org, or visit us in person to let us know you’ll be attending
Meet & Greet the Artist receptions allow local artists to mingle, enjoy light refreshments, and have the opportunity to discuss what inspired the pieces you see in their exhibit featured at GHD’s Health & Wellness Library. This event is free and open to all community members.