Opening Reception: Nov 7, 2025, 5-7pm
Curator Tour: Dec 12, 2025, 12-1pm
Closing Reception: Jan 4, 2026, 3-5pm
Curator Bio
Na Omi Shintani is a multidisciplinary artist and curator focused on exploring culture, environment, and heritage. She has held solo exhibitions at venues such as the Japanese American Museum of Oregon, the Triton Museum of Art, Towson University in Baltimore, and most recently at the Goldene Nudel Gallery in Darmstadt, Germany.
As an artist and organizer, Na Omi Shintani initiated the Coastside Asian Pacific American Heritage movement in Half Moon Bay to promote APA art and culture locally. Shintani also owns and operates the Kitsune Community Art Studio & Gallery, which serves as a gathering place for the APA community to share stories, food, and cultural experiences. Through Kitsune Community Studio and Gallery, she offers a variety of events, including art exhibits, performances, music, spoken word, and more. The Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Center sponsored Na Omi’s Coastside Asian Pacific American Heritage Celebration 2025 in Half Moon Bay.
Curatorial Statement by Na Omi J. Shintani
“That which shelters or protects from danger, distress or calamity; a strong hold which protects by its strength, or a sanctuary which secures safety by its sacredness; any place inaccessible to an enemy”.
Initially, the word "refuge" brought to mind solid structures and comforting shelters. In today's unstable world, where can we find safety, express ourselves freely, and feel part of a welcoming community? I am intrigued by the diverse interpretations of refuge offered by these twelve artists. Some create physical spaces of refuge, while others draw inspiration and comfort from nature. Refuge can also be reflected through the creative process—including research, collection, collaging, mark-making, sculpting, and layering. For some artists, cultural symbols and family ties are vital sources of refuge. This exhibition showcases the many ways art can convey a sense of safety and sanctuary.
Artists featured in Refuge II: Shari Arai DeBoer, Ellen Bepp, Cindy Chan, Reiko Fujii, Kathy Fujii-Oka, Lucien Kubo, Priyanka Rana, Maggie Yee, with NCWCA artists Priscilla Otani, Salma Arastu, Bushra Gill, and Lisa Chun Rodondi
