March 14, 2025
By Kathy Chouteau
In the first major exhibition of its kind for Richmond-based artist John Wehrle, the Richmond Art Center will present “Time & Tide: The Art of John Wehrle” April 9 through June 14, 2025.
Wehrle is renowned for his Richmond murals—which also appear throughout the Bay Area, California and the West Coast—in a diverse body of work that spans more than five decades. Wehrle’s landmark Richmond murals, The Plunge (2010) and Revisionist History (1995) are well known within the community.
The exhibition spotlights the artist’s work spanning from murals, sculptures and “stitched” photographs to limited edition digital print portfolios, videos and studio paintings. Within his art, themes of war, survival, the environment and human progress reflect the evolving world and its social constructs.
“John Wehrle’s art is not just a visual experience,” said 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.”
A catalogue, public programs and self-guided mural tour will accompany Time & Tide. An Open Reception will take place Saturday, April 5, from 1-3 p.m. free of change, celebrating the exhibition’s opening with live music by Barbara Speed and Friends.
A free Panel Discussion will take place on Saturday, April 26 from 1-3 p.m., when Nathanson moderates a conversation with panelists Roberto Martinez, Kim Anno, Betsy Davids and artist John Wehrle. Youth Art Tours (ages 7-24) of Time & Tide are available Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and are free for Richmond schools and groups.
The Richmond Art Center is located at 2540 Barrett Ave. in Richmond. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.
