Juan Navarro (pictured) of Eastside Arthouse and Michelle Espino have curated a new exhibition at The Cheech, showcasing his artistic perspective and community-driven approach. (Courtesy of Juan Navarro)
In partnership with The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, Riverside Art Museum presents "Hecho En Park Avenue," a celebration of Riverside's historic Eastside neighborhood through the vision of artist Juan Navarro.
The exhibition showcases how Park Avenue's rich cultural legacy has evolved through generations of families who migrated to establish roots in this vibrant corridor. Navarro, who recently completed his artist residency at "The Branch," has collaborated with neighborhood residents to document their shared cultural heritage.
"Hecho En Park Avenue" features paintings, photography, and installation pieces that invite viewers to contribute their vision for the neighborhood's future. This approach reflects Navarro's belief that art should actively involve the community it represents.
As founder of Eastside Arthouse, Navarro has established a creative hub welcomed by locals in 2021 for its mission to bring the long-time Mexican cultural "muralismo" traditions to the area. The exhibition highlights how Riverside's Chicanx/a/o people have maintained a strong advocacy and cultural pride tradition.
Murals don't travel well, so it is encouraged that you drive through the neighborhood, look at the murals, and get an idea of the scale and prominence of the art within a small geographic area.
The Park Avenue Arts District now features multiple artistic landmarks, including sites dedicated to themes like "Lincoln Park History," "Mexican Beauty," and "Polynesian Patterns" – creating a living gallery that continues to evolve through community participation.
The exhibition represents not just Navarro's accomplishments but the collective imagination of a neighborhood actively shaping its cultural identity.
Juan Navarro Mural Guide
Cruising till Sunset, at 14th and Park
Heritage and Technology, at 13th and Park
Lincoln Park History and Civil Rights Leaders, on 12th Street across from Lincoln Park
Park Avenue Arts District, at 12th and Park on the side of the Eastside Arthouse
Eastside Arthouse Studio, on the corner of 12th and Park
Mexican Beauty, on Park near 11th
Monarch Paradise, on 11th near Park
Polynesian Patterns, on Park near 10th
Aspirations of the Eastside, on Park near University Avenue
Hecho en Park Avenue
March 29 - September 28, 2025 Altura Credit Union Community Gallery at the Cheech
Opening Reception: April 4, 2025 Open to the public during the April ArtsWalk at The Cheech
