The Collective Self

The Community Focus Space John Wayne Airport

18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, CA 92707

Terminals A and B baggage claims

The Collective Self presents work by faculty and students of the Art and Photography departments in the Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) division of Cypress College. Inspired by concepts from psychology and sociology, The Collective Self explores the multi-faceted nature of identity and identity construction. The exhibition highlights the chemistry of self-contemplation, the relational interplay of individual and community, and the exchanges between us and the geographies we inhabit, alone and together. Featuring diverse artistic expressions – from drawing and photography to concept design and illustration – The Collective Self reflects our shared humanity and individual stories while inviting you to contemplate your place within life's warp and weft.

Led by the Dean Dr. Kellori Dower, VAPA provides a context for Cypress College students to grow their creative capacities, develop critical faculties, and learn the foundational skills required for careers in multiple areas of the visual and performing arts.

VAPA's Art Department offers a variety of A.A. degree options and transfer pathways to four-year institutions in the California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems, as well as to private art schools. The Associate in Arts for Transfer-Studio Art (AA-T) provides students with the first 2 years of required coursework for bachelor’s degrees in Painting, Animation, Graphic Design, Photography, Entertainment Art, and Illustration, among others.

The Photography Department offers a curriculum that prepares students for employment in the expanding and ever-changing photographic profession. In addition to teaching job skills, the program develops the creative and critical thinking potential of students. The program also offers those already employed in the photographic profession opportunities to update both technical and aesthetic skills. These courses guide students toward transfer to four-year institutions, associate degrees, vocational training, and certificate opportunities for lifelong learning.