ReflectSpace Gallery presents “It’s Clever, But Is It Art?” a solo exhibition that showcases several pieces by well-known Mexican artist ERRE (Marcos Ramírez) whose work reflects the sociopolitical issues surrounding the Mexico-U.S. border in various forms, including text-based art. Through works that resemble crossword puzzles and the Snellen Optometry chart, the exhibition explores the impact of written language within the context of a public library. The exhibition includes public art in four large-scale eye-chart-like banners featuring quotes from notable writers displayed on the library building’s facade. A floor installation referencing the Tower of Babel completes the exhibition, offering insight into the biblical story of a multilingual world. “It’s Clever, But Is It Art?” titled after a quotation by Rudyard Kipling, is curated by Alma Ruiz, former senior curator at MOCA, Los Angeles. 

In Central Library’s Passageway Gallery, two accompanying projects will be on display: a series of community portraits entitled “If You Had A Magic Wand” is a socially engaged art project by Johnny Pérez, in collaboration with Edison Elementary, and Glendale Central Library. The portraits act to further validate the students and their wishes for the community.

“Letters to Parents,” a postcard project by Kevin Ly, invites the public to respond to the writing prompt, “What do you wish your parents had told you?” It is intended to start a conversation and have people interact with not just the exhibit but with each other. All exhibitions will be available through July 23 at Glendale Central Library, 222 E. Harvard in Glendale.