ArtCenter College of Design’s Spring 2025 Grad Show will feature a powerful and emotional installation titled Resilience in the Ashes, serving as a centerpiece for remembrance and community healing. The immersive work responds to the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles, Altadena, and Pasadena in January 2025.
The Grad Show, one of the largest art and design exhibitions on the West Coast, showcases works from 327 graduating students. Among the wide range of disciplines on display—from animation to UX/UI design—Resilience in the Ashes stands out as a poignant tribute to loss, recovery, and resilience.
Collaborative Art in the Wake of Wildfire Tragedy
The installation is a collaboration between James Meraz, Associate Chair of Spatial Experience Design; Everard Williams, Chair of Photography and Imaging; and Fine Art alumnus and former valedictorian Jeffrey Sugishita.
It is composed of three symbolic components:
- The Tree – A sculptural piece constructed from burnt branches salvaged from Sugishita’s home in Altadena, which was destroyed in the Eaton fire.
- The Chair – A preserved artifact from the home of the late Norm Schureman, a beloved ArtCenter faculty member.
- The Photograph – A compelling image taken by Williams, showing a fire-damaged object from his own property.
A Living Memorial to Shared Strength
Visitors to the installation are invited to write personal messages, hopes, or reflections on cards and hang them on the tree. This act transforms the installation into a living memorial—a space that evolves with each contribution and symbolizes collective strength.
Event Details
On View:
Saturday, April 26, 2025
Public Hours: Noon – 5 p.m.
Admission: Free
Future viewing dates at ArtCenter will be announced.
Location:
ArtCenter College of Design Spring 2025 Grad Show
Pasadena Convention Center – Exhibit Halls A & B
300 E. Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91101
Hi South Pasadenean Journalists!
Did you know ArtCenter Pasadena just laid off 40 staff members? Some of those people just lost their homes and studios to the recent LA fires.
I’d love to see a story about this, especially since the Pasadena/Altadena community was so heavily affected by the Eaton Canyon fire.