The Long Beach Creative Group is proud to present Full Creative Vision: An In Memoriam to Marka and Mic Burns, a tribute to their artistic legacies, whose creative contributions have left an indelible mark on our community. The exhibition opens on Sunday, December 1st, with a reception from 1-4 pm, and will continue every Friday through Sunday until December 15th. The Rod Briggs Gallery is located at 2221 East Broadway in Long Beach. ?Regular hours are 1-4 pm.
Marka Burns, a dedicated artist and educator, inspired countless students and educators throughout her career, instilling in them the importance of developing their full creative potential. A graduate of Chouinard Art Institute and California State University, Long Beach, Marka taught art and art education at CSULB for over 30 years. Her pioneering spirit led her to open the first Color Xerox studio for artists in California. Her passion extended beyond the classroom, as she lectured on art and architecture across Europe, coordinated exhibits in prestigious venues, and created artwork that has been featured in private and corporate collections.
In 2015, Marka and husband Mic co-founded the Long Beach Creative Group. With a small group of artists and arts enthusiasts, their mission was to create opportunities for Long Beach artists to showcase their work. Thanks to her vision, the Long Beach Creative Group & Rod Briggs Gallery became a vital hub for creative expression, connecting an impressively diverse group of artists and patrons.
Mic Burns, a talented pipe designer and digital painter, began his career after graduating from the Cornish School of Arts in Seattle. Known worldwide for his handcrafted Freehand Pipes under the name "Micoli," Mic channeled his artistic vision into digital paintings later in life. Inspired by the smallest details—from his wife’s paint palettes to the textures of nature—Mic’s work transforms everyday elements into profound artistic expressions.
New board president Travis Stock-Tucker said, "we are so proud of the work that Marka and Mic did in support of the arts in Long Beach. The Rod Briggs Gallery would not exist without their leadership and vision, and the Group remains committed to honoring their legacy." ?
"I'd seen some of their work, before, but I must admit that seeing the gallery full of their art is really glorious," said Sander Roscoe Wolff, a newly appointed board member that worked closely with Marka for the last 5 years. "I really hope that friends, students, and fellow artists take the time to see this exhibition before it ends."
The exhibit will run from December 1st to December 15th, with gallery hours from 1-4 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Join us for the opening on December 1st from 1-4 PM, with a time for speeches honoring Marka and Mic from 2-3 PM. Those wishing to speak are encouraged to keep remarks to around 5 minutes. A portion of all sales will go toward the creation of a new scholarship endowment for CSULB students in the arts education program. We and the Burns family agree that this is a perfect way to honor their legacy.
The Long Beach Creative Group is supported, in part, by the Arts Council for Long Beach, the Port of Long Beach, the City of Long Beach, and the Briggs Family Trust.
The LBCG is an established consortium of experienced artists, educators, and art enthusiasts engaged in creating exhibit space and opportunities for local artists through curated exhibits and events. Since 2019, the Rod Briggs Gallery has enabled the group to consistently and professionally present the depth and diversity of artistic expression in Long Beach and the surrounding communities.
The Rod Briggs Gallery is located at 2221 East Broadway, Long Beach, CA 90803. During exhibits, the gallery is open to the public Fridays through Sundays, from 1 pm to 4 pm. No appointment is required. More information about the group, the gallery, and the show can be found at LongBeachCreativeGroup.com. Follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/LongBeachCreativeGroup, and on Instagram @LongBeachCreativeGroup.
