“Cynthia Tom: Stories to Tell: Discards & Variances,” opens Friday, Sept. 23 at Gallery Route One, Point Reyes Station

By Stephanie Wright Hession

In the solo exhibition, “Cynthia Tom: Stories to Tell: Discards & Variances,” the Surrealist painter and mixed media artist focuses upon the tragedy of human trafficking through the personal experiences of her Chinese American family. Uncovering the disturbing details of her grandmother, father and mother’s lives spurred Tom to honor them through her work. 

Detail, Hom Shee Mock installation by Cynthia Tom

Featuring Surrealist paintings, found object sculpture and mixed media works placed in a haunting, darkened space, she addresses the issue of human trafficking and abuse prevalent in the San Francisco’s Chinese community before the 1950s and takes a look at the issue, which continues to occur in the San Francisco Bay Area today.

"Heading Home," acrylic on canvas by Cynthia Tom

She reveals secret stories to convey the resiliency of the human spirit, to honor women and to embolden individuals to harness their power to effectively change lives in positive ways. Tom also asks the viewer to ponder how they can help end modern-day slavery.

"If Umbrellas could protect," an installation by Cynthia Tom

Opening events on Sunday, Sept. 25 include an artist talk with Tom and Marto at 2:30 p.m. and an opening reception for all galleries at 3-5 p.m.

Also running concurrently at the Gallery Route One Outer Galleries: “Diana Marto: Golden Room, Canto XXV,” and “T.C. Moore: Reflections.”

Through October 30. Gallery Route One, 11101 Highway One, Suite 101, Point Reyes Station. (415) 663-1347, www.galleryrouteone.org. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Monday; Closed Tuesdays.
All images courtesy of Cynthia Tom