The Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA) at Cal State San Bernardino hosted the second-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) exhibition, “Visual Language,” drawing more than 100 visitors to its opening.

The exhibition featured the work of MFA students Mya Correa, Matthew Dickerson, Loren Malul, Santos Nuñez and Alex Valdez. Rather than following a single narrative, each artist brought a distinct perspective, exploring themes of language and culture, technology, inner battles and more.

“This group is particularly varied in their interests and explorations,” said Kathy Gray, professor and chair of art and design. “But a through line is their commitment to experimentation and dedication to their vision.”

Among the artists, Correa worked across multiple mediums, incorporating repurposed materials with sentimental value. “Things that meant something to me or to someone I love tend to become part of my artwork,” she said. “Things have an energy to them and can bring history and positivity into something new.”

Mya Correa with one of her sculptures on display at the second-year MFA exhibition held in January.
Mya Correa with one of her sculptures on display at the second-year MFA exhibition held in January.

Dickerson, who serves as the ceramic lab technician for the department, focused on self-exploration. “A lot of my work is about inner struggles,” he shared. “There are times when I learn how to cope with [my struggles], and then there are times where it is too much, and I must purge them from my mind.”

Matthew Dickerson, MFA student and ceramic lab technician for art and design, with his piece, “Barbaric Concessions.”
Matthew Dickerson, MFA student and ceramic lab technician for art and design, with his piece, “Barbaric Concessions.”

Nuñez, a photographer and videographer, tackled the impact of digital consumption. His series examined the effects of excessive screen time, reflecting on parenthood and societal habits. “A distorted environment we have helped create for our children,” he said of his work.

Santos Nunez with his pieces, “Previously On . . .,” “Touch Glass,” and “Zoom In.”
Santos Nunez with his pieces, “Previously On . . .,” “Touch Glass,” and “Zoom In.”

 

Malul’s contemporary surrealist paintings examined interconnectedness and self-awareness. “[This process] has allowed me to question who benefits from our division and release the judgment and expectations we set on our peers,” she said.

Loren Malul with her contemporary surrealist paintings at the second-year MFA exhibition.
Loren Malul with her contemporary surrealist paintings at the second-year MFA exhibition.

Valdez explored the complexities of language and culture, centering his work on Mexican slang. “I believe Mexican slang is a form of defiance because the words cannot be tied down to one particular meaning when translated to English,” he explained. “It is the language of the people, of the working class, people from the barrio, and people from the rancho.”

Held on Jan. 23, “Visual Language” offered a compelling showcase of experimental artistry and innovation, reinforcing the strength and creativity of CSUSB’s MFA program and the vibrant artistic community within the Inland Empire.
Alex Valdez with his work, “Take A Chance,” at the second-year MFA exhibition.

Held on Jan. 23, “Visual Language” offered a compelling showcase of experimental artistry and innovation, reinforcing the strength and creativity of CSUSB’s MFA program and the vibrant artistic community within the Inland Empire.