Transition is the theme of this final 2026 South San Francisco art exhibition. Over 70 two and three dimensional entries feature works that encompass introspection, renewal and transformation. Scroll down to view the award-winning entries. Click on the images to enlarge them.

Visit www.ssfca.gov/CulturalArts for more information on the art exhibition which runs weekdays through October 30, 2026.

*Please note that the City of South San Francisco does not endorse or receive funds to advertise any of the third party sites or services listed or referenced on this page. 
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The South San Francisco Cultural Arts Commission supports, promotes and protects community interest and diversity in art, culture and creative expression. To make a donation or for more information on other SSF Cultural Art programs, visit www.ssfca.gov/CulturalArts.

By Elisa Colón Sosa

Acrylic Painting

Cultural Arts Commission Award

"An ongoing process of growth, resilience, and inner strength, the woman reflects cultural pride and womanhood. Vibrant, unique and exotic botanicals honor her roots, grounding the piece in heritage. Smiling into the light with closed eyes, she blooms into being, secure of who she is."

By Juana Ramirez

Oil painting, mixed media/collage
1st place: 2-Dimensional | BEST IN SHOW

"This self portrait explores my identity through a rat, an animal who is misunderstood, guarded, yet remains resilient. This piece reflects the parts shaped by family, trauma, and struggles while honoring my Mexican roots. The dahlia represents positivity and softness I’m learning to nurture."

By Jonathan Yip

Digital Drawing on Canvas Paper
2nd place: 2-Dimensional

"I am interested in the inner city within a person’s mind. In “Paths Form”, the body of me as a 6 year old is depicted, and out from where a head would be is where the viewer is taken through many twists and city streets, which are warped in size and scale, alongside its residents."

By Alyssa Trop

Acrylic painting

3rd place: 2-dimensional

"I connect "blooming into being" with uprooting myself in order to build a fulfilling life. Visiting home is bittersweet - the trees are familiar in the forest, but the place has changed in my absence. Moss has crept in and debris fills the space. Even if I wanted to go back, I don't fit anymore."

By Valérie

Painting made of threads and acrylic

Honorable Mention: 2-Dimensional

"Thunderstorm Green explores transformation and renewal. Against a turbulent sky, layers of green thread create a living, shifting landscape, suggesting growth, resilience, and the emergence of new life after the storm."

By Rita Barichievich

Oil painting

Honorable Mention: 2-Dimensional

"While driving toward home I saw sunflowers on front of a house. The next day my husband and I stopped to take a picture and we met the homeowner. He graciously gave us flowers to take home. Not only did we enjoy the blooms but also a blossoming friendship with a previously unknown neighbor."

By Sarah Polka

Cotton thread and glass beads on linen, mounted on paper

Honorable Mention: 2-Dimensional

"I wanted to explore the concept of “hidden” with this piece, both in the representation of the roots, hidden underground, and the fact that Lily of the valley, though very dainty and beautiful, are also toxic—a hidden secret of the little flower."

By Stephen Bourque

Mixed Media Wearable Art
1st place: 3-Dimensional

"This jacket depicts the glitz and glamour promised by fame, with the actual reality such fame inevitably bestows."

By Laurie Ratliff

Polymer clay
2nd place: 3-Dimensional

"Foxglove, cattails, dogwood, cowslip. This piece is a whimsical wink, a play on words, a grateful bow to the creativity that grows around us."

By Stephen Bourque

Mixed Media Collage

3rd Place: 3-Dimensional

"Set against a starry night sky, a colorfully vibrant individual blossoming outward from the word 'STARS' in graffiti style, obtaining the transformative energy required by simply connecting with the universe."

By Lindsey Tsuboi

Crochet

Honorable Mention: 3-Dimensional

"Each stitch in this piece represents a step in my journey with breast cancer. Through crochet, I found a way to express my hope, strength, and determination to become a survivor. I created this piece not only for myself but also for others facing breast cancer, as a reminder that they are not alone."

By Bhavithra P. Karthik | Color Tantra

Sculptural plaster relief, acrylic on canvas

Honorable Mention: 3-Dimensional

"The Littlest Messenger began in 2023 and returned to me in 2025, after motherhood, postpartum, and a move across continents. When I came back to it, the hummingbird appeared, small, steady, and alive within the chaos. It became a symbol of quiet hope, guidance, and strength through change."