January 30, 2025 - May 3, 2025

Fractured Geographies by Luciana Abait examines the interconnected crises of climate change, environmental fragility, and systemic barriers. By juxtaposing natural elements with human-made divisions, Abait critiques systems that restrict connection and refuge. Her work challenges romanticized depictions of nature, inspiring empathy and action to address shared environmental and humanitarian challenges with resilience and compassion. 

January 30, 2025 - May 3, 2025

In Illuminated Earth, Kelly Berg invites viewers to experience illumination as both light and enlightenment, expressed through her radiant paintings and a haunting mirrored sculpture. Berg’s work intertwines geology, archeology, and human experience. Volcanic eruptions, tectonic rifts, and rivers of lava are dynamic landscapes where chaos and order coexist. Geometric elements like pyramids and obelisks frame these scenes, symbolizing ancient energy and cycles of renewal, while her Renaissance-inspired glazing technique adds depth and luminosity. Drawing from her direct experiences in geologically rich sites like Joshua Tree and Naples, Berg’s work connects her personal journey with universal themes, inspiring a profound connection to the ever-changing mysteries of the natural world. 

January 30, 2025 – May 3, 2025 

Modern Moments: Abstract Works from BMoA’s Collection presents 11 significant pieces created between 1961 and 2023 from Bakersfield Museum of Art’s permanent collection. Taken together, these works capture the evolution of abstraction across six decades, showcasing works that engage with bold color, dynamic textures, and innovative forms. Each piece reflects a distinct moment in artistic exploration, highlighting themes of identity, emotion, and modernity. By bridging mid-century modern influences with contemporary interpretations, the collection offers a rich perspective on abstraction’s versatility and enduring impact. Visitors are invited to explore the transformative potential of abstract art in expressing the complexities of life. 

May 30, 2024 – January 3, 2026 

From the Vault celebrates California's bright, earthy palette and textures through various mediums—from glass and wood vessels to oil paint and serigraph printing—and demonstrates the diverse range of Bakersfield Museum of Art’s Permanent Collection.  Comprised of over 400 pieces, the Permanent Collection highlights California artists from the 20th century to the present and seeks to provide a comprehensive survey of art produced in and about California.