Exhibition Dates: May 24, 2024 – August 31, 2024
Curated by: Ángel Hernández and Yaileen Zamora, with support from Meredith Lancaster and Abigail Lopez-Byrd

“Where There’s Rubble, There’s Treasure” was a groundbreaking exhibition that brought together twenty local artists from Compton and South Los Angeles to challenge perceptions of the community. Inspired by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s TED Talk, The Danger of a Single Story, the exhibition sought to dismantle the stereotypes often associated with Compton, such as poverty and violence, and instead highlight the richness, creativity, and resilience of its residents.

Through a diverse array of artworks—from vibrant paintings to thought-provoking photography—each piece reflected a unique perspective on the multifaceted identity of Compton. The exhibition encouraged visitors to reconsider their preconceived notions and explore the beauty that exists amidst the so-called "rubble."

As Curator Meredith Lancaster described, “This exhibition was about reclaiming Compton’s narrative, challenging the single story that has overshadowed the community for too long. These works revealed the deep talent and creativity that thrives in our city.”

This dynamic exhibition was supported by generous funding from the California Arts Council and featured interactive activities that engaged visitors in a conversation about the future of storytelling through art.