News - Blog
Current & Upcoming Events
On Exhibition - Seen & Whole 1216 Cave St, La Jolla, CA 92037 (Activated Spaces through San Diego Art Directory & Mental Wellness for Artists)
On Exhibition - The San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery “The Will of the Brush” Juror Chuch Mcpherson, Liberty Station, San Diego, CA
On Exhibiton - Lucas Smith Exhibiting Artist @ The Studio Door 3867 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 Hours: Tues - Sun 11am-6pm
On Exhibition - The Big Gay Art Show @ Sh!ft Gallery 4847 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107
On Exhibition through Sept 30th, 2026 - Unscripted Spaces, La Jolla Village, La Jolla, CA / Collaborative Exhibition “In Situ” Curator Blanca Bergman
Take A Look At What’s Upcoming
July 3rd, 2026 - SDWS First Friday, Art Exhibition - The San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery, Liberty Station - Reception 5 - 8 pm
July 11th, 2026- PROUD+ 2026, the 9th Annual national LGBTQ+ exhibition presented by The Studio Door in Hillcrest. Reception 6 - 9 pm
Aug 7th, 2026 - SDWS First Friday, Art Exhibition - The San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery, Liberty Station - Reception 5 - 8 pm
Sept 4th, 2026 - SDWS First Friday, Art Exhibition - The San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery, Liberty Station - Reception 5 - 8 pm
Sept 12th, 2026 - Journey Through the Abstract at North Coastal Art Gallery, 300 Carlsbad Village Dr # 101, Carlsbad, CA - Reception 3 - 5 pm
Sept 26th, 2026 - First Look and Awards Gala (invite only) 46th International Exhibition - The San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery, Liberty Station
Sept 27th, 2026 - The SDWS 46th International Exhibition, Opens to the Public 11AM - The San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery, Liberty Station
Oct 2nd, 2026 - SDWS Opening Reception, 46th International Exhibition - The San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery, Liberty Station - Reception 5 - 8 pm
Oct 31st, 2026 - SDWS Exhibit Closes, 46th International Exhibition - The San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery, Liberty Station - Reception 5 - 8 pm
Oct 10th, 2026 - Inspirations Exhibition at North Coastal Art Gallery, 300 Carlsbad Village Dr # 101, Carlsbad, CA - Reception 3 - 5 pm
Dec 5th, 2026 - Holiday Small Image Exhibition at North Coastal Art Gallery, 300 Carlsbad Village Dr # 101, Carlsbad, CA - Reception 3 - 5 pm
On Exhibition
Excited to share that Soundwave (36x48, acrylic on canvas) has been selected for inclusion in Seen & Whole, an Activated Spaces program presented by San Diego Art Directory in collaboration with the (CCLJ).
Thank you to , lead curator of Seen & Whole, for selecting my work and for this opportunity.
1216 Cave St, La Jolla, CA 92037
ACCEPTED
“Traces of a Dream” has been selected for PROUD+ 2026, the 9th Annual national LGBTQ+ exhibition presented by The Studio Door in San Diego.
This year’s exhibition will be on view June 19 – July 31, 2026 during San Diego Pride Month.
The exhibition reception will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 6 PM – 9 PM.
The Studio Door
3867 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Gallery Hours: Tues–Sat, 11am–6pm
NOW ON VIEW
Thrilled to share that a selection of my newest works are now on view in Hillcrest at The Studio Door.
Visit The Studio Door
3867 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Gallery Hours: Tues–Sat, 11am–6pm
Take some time to experience the work in person—plan your visit and enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the heart of Hillcrest
ON EXHIBITION
Selected for In Situ: La Jolla
Honored to share that my painting Still Water Stones (36 x 36 acrylic) has been selected for In Situ: La Jolla, presented by the San Diego Art Directory and hosted at Unscripted Spaces.
Thank you to the Lead Curator Blanca lucia Bergman.
On view now through September https://unscriptedspaces.com/about/
Unscripted Spaces 7730 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037. Open Mon-Fri 10am-6pm. Saturday 11am-5pm.
The 46th International Exhibition at the San Diego Watercolor Society is now accepting submissions. Yes, the Call for Entries is OPEN, and this year is set to be another standout, with over $30,000 in awards!
We’re honored to welcome internationally recognized master watercolorist Ana Laura Salazar Orozco as the 2026 juror.
Key dates: • Exhibition: Sept 27 - Oct 3
September 26: First Look and Awards Gala (invite only)
September 27: Artists’ Breakfast / Exhibition Opens to Public 11 AM
October 2: First Friday public opening reception
October 31:Exhibition Closes 3 PM
Questions, feel free to email ishowinformation@sdws.org
The San Diego Museum of Art - Artists Guild
The Art of Now- Pushing Boundaries." Juror, Max Presneill of The Torrance Art Museum, will be both jurying and curating this exhibition.
Juror: Max Presneill Director and Head Curator of Torrance Art Museum.
Exhibition dates: Friday, June 5- Sunday, June 28, 2026.
Location of Exhibition (in-person): Union Hall Gallery 2323 Broadway # 201, San Diego, CA 92102
INSTALLATION
Thank you Jazzercise! I’m honored to have two of my works, Parting Sky (40x60 diptych) and Heatwave (48x36), selected for installation at the corporate headquarters in Carlsbad.
Selected among 53 works, this installation represents a strong group of local artists. Congratulations to all who were included.
Programs like this, offering 6-month leasing opportunities, create meaningful visibility for artists while bringing original work into professional spaces. It’s a model that supports both artists and the community.
Thank you again for the opportunity.
Common Ground: A Convergence on Abstraction
Captivating Fine Art Exhibition by three contemporary abstract artists at Village Arts Outreach (Gallery 21) Feb 24- March 9, 2026
The “Common Ground” exhibition showcases the highly acclaimed work of San Diego artists Lucas Smith, Anuj "AJ" Jenveja, and Priyanka Pathak in a curated group exhibition at Village Arts Outreach (aka Gallery 21) in Spanish Village, Balboa Park.
The artists present abstraction as a shared visual language, while approaching the act of creation from their unique perspectives, the three foster a convergence within their work through layered compositions, spatial awareness, and a balance between control and intuition. “Viewers will see how color and texture play a central role in our individual paintings, which share the qualities of being tactile, responsive, and deeply rooted in process,” explained Lucas.
By presenting these artists together, the works collectively illuminate how abstraction can bridge differences, revealing the ties that connect us all. “We are deeply invested in our unifying theme,” said AJ, “so much that we will be inaugurating our exhibit by unveiling a new collaborative painting on the first day”. “I believe our guests will enjoy witnessing what makes each of our styles distinct, and also how we see ourselves in each other,” added Priyanka.
For decades, Village Arts Outreach has served as a vital artistic outreach program at Spanish Village in Balboa Park, providing thousands of local emerging and professional artists with the opportunity to display their work in its welcoming and professional exhibition space.
More Information here: KPBS.org
ART OF THE SALE
April 11, 2025 | Thank you North Coastal
Selling art is not about pressure — it’s about connection, storytelling, and service.
Hosted at North Coastal Art Gallery, home of the Carlsbad–Oceanside Art League (COAL), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting artistic growth, exhibitions, and community engagement since 1951.
SOLD
Torrey Cliffs was sold at the 50th Annual Small Image Exhibition at Gallery 21!
Exhibit Dates: Jan 24 – Feb 22, 2026
Gallery 21, Spanish Village 1770 Village Pl, San Diego, CA 92101
Mini Series -Collect All 5!
An Introduction
A journey through movement & color
Elemental Drift—a series of five small-scale abstracts that celebrate movement, color, and energy. Each 8 x 6 piece is cut from a larger acrylic sheet and mounted on wood.
Featured Artist
Thank You!
I’m honored to have been the featured artist for the month of December, 2025 at Foothills Art Gallery.
Gallery Hours: Tues–Sat, 11am–4pm
Location: Foothills Art Gallery, 4910 Memorial Dr, La Mesa, CA 91942
LUCAS SMITH ART At Falling Sky Gallery
Nov - Jan, 2026
I am very excited to partner with Falling Sky Gallery in Ocean Beach to display a solo exhibition of my work. Owner, Izzy Elizondo is a member of the San Diego Potters’ Guild and known as one of San Diego’s premier potters for over 25 years.
Falling Sky Gallery & Pottery Studio 1951 Abbott St # B, San Diego, CA 92107
1st Place
“Coastal Horizon” Takes Top Honors
Coastal Horizon 36x48 received 1st Place in Acrylics at North Coastal Art Gallery in the November 2025 Member Exhibition, “Nature’s Rhythms.”
Rich with color and bold texture, this abstract piece features deep ultramarine blues and my favorite coarse lava gel, which creates a striking sandy texture across the canvas. I couldn’t be more honored to have this work recognized. ️
November 19th, 2025
North Coastal Art Gallery 300 Carlsbad Village Dr Carlsbad, CA 92008
Honorable Mention
I’m honored to have received an Honorable Mention Award from Teravarna in the 13th OPEN International Juried Art Competition for October 2025.
This international exhibition features 477 artists from 48 countries, celebrating creativity and connection through art. Cick Here to view.
SDWS 45th International Exhibition
Sept 28 – Oct 31, 2025
Golden Hour | 36x48 | Acrylic on Wood Panel
I am honored that Golden Hour received the 4th Place Innovative Use of Technique Award in the 45th International Exhibition at the San Diego Watercolor Society.
Thank you to juror Kathleen Conover for this recognition. I’m humbled to be amongst world-renowned and master artists in this international showcase.
SDWS Gallery, Liberty Station
2825 Dewey Rd, Suite 105
Building 202
San Diego, CA 92106
Juror Comments: Greg Grosh Innovative Use of Technique Award ($3,000 cash): Lucas Smith for “Golden Hour”
This is not only a stunning painting, and certainly illustrates the golden hour of our days, but it is unusual in that it is a color and texture piece primarily, and less about the design. There’s something in the artist's pigments that makes the painting so textural when you get up close, and that texture becomes part of the center of interest. This artwork will grab your attention from across the room because of its glowing color and soft-edged shapes and transitions. And, it will also hold your attention because of all the textural nuances and subtle line work that is so very important when you get close.
Artist & Juror, Kathleen Conover
Beyond the Boundaries: An Exploration in Abstract Art
Spring 2025
I'm thrilled to unveil a brand-new series now available on my website. ️
Featuring rich textures, earthy tones, and strong, expressive designs—each piece invites you into a layered visual story. And yes—free shipping within the continental U.S.!
Browse the full collection and let me know which one resonates with you.
Art Is Not a Hobby — It’s a Calling
In case you missed the interview, explore the latest feature by AINAH, highlighting why art is built on dedication, discipline, and passion.
Read the full article and join the conversation.
Thank You COAL Gallery!
ABSTRACT Fine Art Open Annual: Abstraction of Reality
October 5 – November 1, 2025
North Coastal Art Gallery, Carlsbad CA
SD Coastal Art Tour 2025
September 13th, 2025
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 5th Annual Art Tour presented by SD Coastal Art Studios.
It’s always a gift to connect, share my work, and talk about my inspiration with you all.
I’m grateful that three original works found their forever homes this weekend — two Totems from the Baja series and A Field Once Dreamed, inspired by my recent hike to Julian. Each piece carries its own unique story, and I’m thankful they’ll continue to inspire in their new collections.
HART 2025
Homegrown ArtBeat HART 2025 - Presented by the San Diego Art Directory
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Union Hall Gallery
2323 Broadway # 201, San Diego, CA 92102
Golden Art Night
Thank You for an Incredible Evening!
What a night! Golden Art Night brought together collectors, enthusiasts, aficionados, and art lovers for an unforgettable experience. The gallery was alive with energy, creativity, and conversation.
Thank you, LMNL Contemporary for creating this amazing opportunity and to Union Gallery for being such great hosts.
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Union Hall Gallery
2323 Broadway, San Diego
2ND PLACE - ACRYLICS
Transdimensional - 24 x 24, Acrylic on Canvas
73rd Fine Art Open Annual Abstract Art Exhibition - Juror Daniel Foster, North Coastal Art Gallery - August, 2025
ART IS NOT A HOBBY
Summer June, 2025
Sit Down Interview with Phurlamu. Watch the Full Video Here on Youtube:
THIRD PLACE
Dreamscape
36x48, Acrylic on Canvas
San Diego County Fair
Exhibition of Fine Art
June 11 - July 6, 2025
Mission Tower / San Diego
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA
People’s Choice
Echoe’s From the Deep (SOLD)
60 x 48 Acrylic on Canvas
Exhibition Dates: April 8th - 21st, 2025
Village Arts Outreach Studio 21,
Spanish Village, Balboa Park
“Beyond the Boundaries”
April 8th - 21st, 2025
Just wanted to say..
Thank you to everyone who attended my solo exhibition. Seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones, hearing your thoughts about the work made it a special experience. ️
I’m incredibly grateful for the support, encouragement, and love from my art community, collectors, and friends. I had so much fun and took attendance everyday! A bit of Show info, we sold 13 paintings and I acquired 2 new commissions!
Over 1,500 people came through during the 2-week show — from international visitors to my incredible San Diego art community. You all showed up and I’m beyond grateful.
San Diego, you ROCK!
Huge thanks to everyone who voted in the People’s Choice box!
Village Arts Outreach Studio 21,
Spanish Village, Balboa Park
1770 Village Place, San Diego, CA 92101
Stories & Insights
Interview with Canvas Rebel Magazine
Had such a great time with Mike Alvarez with Canvas Rebel Magazine for an online interview. We chatted about my journey, recent projects, and what’s next on the horizon. Grateful for the opportunity to share my story, check out the article here.
Empower Your Journey
Excited to share my interview with BOLD Journey Magazine! I had the pleasure of speaking with writer Natalie Diaz. We talked about essential tips for building self confidence as an artist. I also shared ways you can view my work, and be the first to know what’s upcoming. With so much advice on what it takes to succeed, it can feel overwhelming-but sometimes, focusing on just a few core qualities can make all the difference.
Read the full article here:
Check this out
Interview with SDVoyager Magazine
Excited to share my Feature in SD Voyager Magazine! I had the pleasure of speaking with writer Mary Young. We talked about my work, and what inspires me. As well as challenges and lessons that I have learned as an artist and how they have helped shape my journey.
Read the full article here:
SDVoyager Magazine - Rising Stars: Meet Lucas Smith of San Diego, October, 2024
BEST OF SHOW
“Golden Autumn” Regional Exhibition
Distant Shore (SOLD)
-Awarded BEST OF SHOW
48x60, Acrylic on Canvas
Juried by Mike Tauber
Marketing Manager for LOCA Arts Education Laguna Beach.
SOLO EXHIBITION
Minimal Designs & Organic Shapes
THANK YOU to all who attended my solo exhibition! I am so grateful for the amazing turnout and warm reception of my work.
Gallery 21 in Spanish Village Arts Center, Balboa Park - April, 2024
Exhibition featuring art by local San Diego artist, Lucas Smith. Powerful pieces of original artwork that indulge edge & emotion. Working with raw & often organic materials that are combined with professional tools & skilled techniques. I invite my viewers in, not holding back, taking them on a journey through my artwork. Each piece tells a story & seeks to engage with the viewer. Through brushstrokes, my work is meant to not only inspire but to soothe the mind.
Juror Comments
Honorable Mention
"Vibrant Cups"
20x16, Acrylic on Canvas
The San Diego Watercolor Society.
Liberty Station, San Diego, CA.
I love the playfulness in this. The way the cups are stacked is impossible, and that makes the design engaging. The colors are bold. It is held together by the blues and the cuneiform pattern and by surrounding it with brightness and happiness. I could look at it for a good long time and not get tired of it. The background jumps right out at you, but it works. The composition is good. The shapes are flattened, yet the texture in it admits to a lot of give and take. It is a great piece!
-Juror Comments
Artist & juror Roberta Dyer
BEST of Miniatures Award
"Nature's Spotlight"
10x10, Mixed Media on Canvas
The San Diego Watercolor Society.
Liberty Station, San Diego, CA.
The format is unusual, the textural surface is evocative. The value range is very strong. It has the best qualities of abstract painting.
-Juror Comments
Artist & juror Chuck McPherson
Greg Grosh Innovative Use of Technique Award ($3,000 cash):
Lucas Smith for “Golden Hour”
This is not only a stunning painting, and certainly illustrates the golden hour of our days, but it is unusual in that it is a color and texture piece primarily, and less about the design. There’s something in the artist's pigments that makes the painting so textural when you get up close, and that texture becomes part of the center of interest. This artwork will grab your attention from across the room because of its glowing color and soft-edged shapes and transitions. And, it will also hold your attention because of all the textural nuances and subtle line work that is so very important when you get close.
-Juror Comments
Artist & juror Kathleen Conover
