From meditative, mixed-media character studies to vibrant patriotic posters crafted by local fifth-graders, SPARC’s June gallery offerings bridge generations of hometown creatives. These two distinct exhibitions celebrate both established visionaries and the community’s brightest young minds.
Every artist’s process begins with a quiet moment of discovery, whether it is a seasoned painter trusting a guiding force or a ten-year-old picking up a colored pencil to capture a piece of American history.
This month, the South Pasadena Arts Council (SPARC) is turning the city into a dual canvas, championing the full spectrum of local imagination.
Beginning tomorrow, June 6, residents are invited to explore two concurrent exhibitions that capture the artistic pulse of the city. Daniel Peacock’s deeply personal “THE AART SHOW” will open at the SPARC Centre Gallery, while the beloved Annual Festival of Balloons 5th Grade Poster Showcase will light up the SPARC Chamber Gallery on Mission Street.
“The AArt Show” by Daniel Peacock
For local artist Daniel Peacock, the canvas is a place where time slows down. His latest collection, “THE AART SHOW,” offers viewers a glimpse into a whimsical, multi-dimensional universe.
“Painting has always been a sweet spot for me, a place where time flows like a meditative moment,” Peacock shared, describing his creative sanctuary.
His work transcends traditional painting, venturing into animation, clay molding, and puppetry. The exhibition promises an intimate look at the characters that populate his imagination, waiting patiently to have their stories told through his diverse use of colors and materials.
Annual Festival of Balloons 5th Grade Poster Showcase
A week later, the civic focus shifts to the artistic voices of tomorrow. SPARC continues its proud partnership with the city’s schools to host the Annual Festival of Balloons 5th Grade Poster Showcase.
This year, 103 fifth-graders from Arroyo Vista, Marengo, Holy Family, and Monterey Hills elementary schools submitted original pieces honoring the 2026 Independence Day theme: “From Sea to Shining Sea: 250 Years of the American Spirit.”
By elevating these student works from classroom assignments to a formal gallery setting, SPARC is actively preserving a cherished municipal tradition. It provides these young patriots with a profound sense of validation and civic belonging.
Plan Your Visit
The community is encouraged to attend both opening receptions to support our local artists and student visionaries. Both exhibitions are free and open to the public.
“THE AART SHOW” by Daniel Peacock
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Opening Reception: Saturday, June 6, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
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Location: SPARC Centre Gallery, 1000 Fremont Ave (entrance is at the back of the building).
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Exhibition Dates: On view until June 27, 2026.
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Viewing Hours: By appointment only. Email [email protected] to schedule your visit.
Annual Festival of Balloons 5th Grade Poster Showcase
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Opening Reception: Saturday, June 13, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
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Location: SPARC Gallery at the Chamber of Commerce, 1121 Mission Street (inside the Chamber office).
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Exhibition Dates: On view from June 1 through July 6, 2026.
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Viewing Hours: By appointment only from Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please call the Chamber of Commerce office at (626) 441-2339 to arrange a viewing.
