Catalina Island is about to get a splash of bold colors and vibrant storytelling as the Catalina Museum of Art & History presents “From Los Angeles to Catalina: The Art of Sonia Romero.” The exhibition, running from May 3 through September 27, 2025, showcases the work of acclaimed Los Angeles-based artist Sonia Romero, whose intricate silkscreen prints and mixed-media pieces are making their way to Avalon for a summer-long visual journey.
Known for her striking paper-cutting and printmaking techniques, Romero draws inspiration from Chicano culture and California’s diverse landscapes. But her new series takes a more personal turn — diving into the layered history and nostalgic charm of Catalina Island itself. The exhibition features a collection of Romero’s iconic works alongside a brand-new, site-specific piece inspired by the island’s unique visual identity.
Romero’s connection to Catalina runs deeper than the average visitor. Last summer, she spent time on the island, leading workshops and exploring the museum’s extensive archive of vintage Catalina ephemera. “I’ve always been fascinated by vintage graphics and ephemera,” Romero said. ‘I spent two whole days poring over old postcards, brochures, and ticket stubs. It’s a wonderful way to understand how the story of Catalina has been told over the years.’
Her newest work reflects that connection — blending Catalina’s past with her own contemporary style. For Romero, the exhibition isn’t just about showcasing art; it’s about building a visual dialogue between the island’s storied past and her evolving artistic journey. “The island’s mix of glamour, grit, and history resonates with the way I tell stories through my art,” she said. “This is only the beginning.”
Visitors to the Catalina Museum of Art & History will be the first to experience this captivating exploration of place and memory. With scenes that evoke Catalina’s rich history, from the famed Endless Summer poster at Salt Creek Beach to the timeless Richard Henry Dana Statue, Romero’s work captures the essence of Avalon while also offering a fresh perspective on what it means to connect with a place.
Exhibition Details:
Title: From Los Angeles to Catalina: The Art of Sonia Romero
On View: May 3 through September 27, 2025
Location: Catalina Museum for Art & History, 217 Metropole Avenue, Avalon, CA
Admission: Adults, $18; Seniors, Military, Veterans, Healthcare Workers & Students, $15; Catalina Residents, $12; Children 15 & younger, Free (with paid adult); Golden State Advantage Cardholders, Free.
For those who want to dive deeper into Romero’s artistic journey, the exhibition offers a unique chance to see her artistic process unfold. With plans to return to Avalon to continue her series, Romero is just getting started in her Catalina exploration. “This is a deeply personal project for me,” she said. “The connection between place, history, and memory is what drives my work, and Catalina is the perfect canvas for that story.”
For more information about the exhibition or to plan your visit, go to CatalinaMuseum.org or follow @CatalinaMuseum on social media for the latest updates and artist highlights.
