Learn about the artistic works of Sammy Penaloza, whose unique expression takes viewers on a visceral journey into the depths of humanity and the mind. Fearlessly exploring his own psyche, Sammy often paints figures that appear nightmarish. On the other end of the spectrum, his work delves into the profound depths of love and light. It is through this raw self-exploration and vulnerability that his art finds multiple ways to connect with the audience. Penaloza’s show, “The Extremes of Sammy Penaloza” is on display at the Fonseca-Du Bois Gallery at the Indy Liberation Center for a month starting Friday, April 3.
Sammy most recently held his work at Newfields during Arte Club hosted by Arte Mexicano en Indiana. Peneloza was previously part of the 2023 Latino Artist Mentorship Program cohort, and is currently in his 3rd year as a teaching artist at Monarca Academy. What was once Sammy’s high school, Monarca Academy Middle School now offers Latino students a chance to learn and grow with their community. As Sammy expands his artistic practice outside the scope seen in this show, he finds himself, in his words, “more childlike” taking inspiration from his students and his background as a self-taught artist.
In this video, meet Sammy and his work that truly carries forward the Gallery’s commitment to centering artistic independence in Indy’s truly liberated space at 1619 Prospect St.
Filming/Editing/Writing: Jay Grillo
Production Assistance: Johnny Hall
This series is in partnership with the Fonseca-Du Bois Gallery and filmed at the Indy Liberation Center as an effort to highlight independent artists and uplift marginalized and oppressed communities through the stories behind their work.