FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Richmond Art Center Presents Time & Tide: The Art of John Wehrle
Richmond, CA: Richmond Art Center is delighted to present Time & Tide, the first major exhibition to comprehensively survey the work of Richmond-based artist John Wehrle. Best known for his murals in Richmond, the Bay Area, and throughout California and the West Coast, Wehrle’s diverse artistic practice spans more than 50 years.
Time & Tide highlights Wehrle’s expansive body of work, including murals, sculptures, “stitched” photographs, limited edition digital print portfolios, videos, and studio paintings. From his early years as a combat artist in Vietnam to his most recent digital photographic works, Wehrle explores themes of war, survival, the environment, and human progress, offering a profound reflection on our evolving world and social constructs.
“John Wehrle’s art is not just a visual experience,” says curator Jeff Nathanson. “It is an invitation to explore the complexities of our existence and connect with the emotions that define us as human beings.”
Blending whimsy, allegory, and history, Wehrle is especially known for his public art, which has shaped Richmond’s urban landscape with landmark murals such as The Plunge (2010) and Revisionist History (1995). His murals and gateways across California continue to leave a lasting impact on communities statewide.
Curated by Jeff Nathanson, Time & Tide will be accompanied by a catalogue, public programs, and self-guided mural tour.
PROGRAM
Exhibition
April 9 – June 14, 2025
Richmond Art Center, 2540 Barrett Avenue, Richmond, CA 94804
Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.
Open Reception
Saturday, April 5, 1pm-3pm | Free
An afternoon reception to celebrate the opening of Time & Tide, featuring live music by Barbara Speed and friends. All are welcome to attend. No RSVP necessary.
Panel Discussion
Saturday, April 26, 1pm-3pm | Free
Curator Jeff Nathanson moderates a conversation with panelists Roberto Martinez, Kim Anno, and Betsy Davids—joined by artist John Wehrle himself—exploring his storied life and artistic journey. Free and open to all; no RSVP required.
Youth Art Tours
Now booking | Thursdays & Fridays, 10am-1pm
Free for Richmond-based schools and groups
Bring your class or youth group to Richmond Art Center for a guided tour of Time & Tide, followed by an art-making session in our studios. Open to ages 7–24. Now booking online: richmondartcenter.org/
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Visitor Information: Richmond Art Center is located at 2540 Barrett Avenue, Richmond, CA 94804. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10am-4pm. Admission is free.
Accessibility and Parking: Ample free parking is available in the 25th Street lot across from Richmond Art Center. Wheelchair access is available via the Barrett Avenue entrance, with accessible parking spaces nearby. Parking and Entrance Map
About Richmond Art Center: Richmond Art Center has been sharing art and creating with the community since 1936. Our programs encompass art classes, exhibitions, and events at our facility in downtown Richmond, as well as off-site activities that bring free, high-quality art-making experiences to WCCUSD schools and community partners. richmondartcenter.org
For more information and images contact:
Amy Spencer, amy@richmondartcenter.org
Top image: John Wehrle, Rising Tide, 2011-2025
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