#USA #Solana Beach #RETNA #Madison Gallery #LOVE LETTER

RETNA's 'LOVE LETTER | CARTA DE AMOR'

This autumn, Madison Gallery in Solana Beach, California, proudly presents "LOVE LETTER | CARTA DE AMOR," an intimate solo exhibition by the renowned artist RETNA. Scheduled from September 3 to October 11, 2025, this exhibition marks a significant turning point in RETNA's artistic narrative, inviting audiences into a deeply personal exploration of love, loss, and the healing power of connection.

About the Exhibition

The opening night on September 20 from 6 PM to 9 PM will feature RETNA himself, offering a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with the artist and his thought-provoking work. This exhibition features a diverse array of new pieces, including large-scale canvases, mixed-media works, and site-specific installations. Each piece is a manifestation of RETNA's evolved artistic intent—shifting from his well-known public works to a more introspective and vulnerable approach.

RETNA, whose real name is Marquis Lewis, is celebrated for his unique hieroglyphic script that weaves together elements of graffiti and contemporary culture with influences from illuminated manuscripts and global iconography. His art often resonates beyond individual expression, echoing historical dialogues and cultural narratives. In this exhibition, he aims to express a narrative grounded in personal transformation.

"After going through an intense personal transformation, I felt compelled to make something rooted in love - love for self, for the people who held me up, and for the world that desperately needs healing," RETNA articulates. This statement encapsulates the essence of CARTA DE AMOR, representing a phase in RETNA's life where he sought to reclaim the notion of love as a foundational principle.

Artistic Shift

Historically, RETNA's projects have centered around themes of space, identity, and assertion—rooted in his experiences as an African American, Salvadorian, and Cherokee artist. His earlier works often focused on occupying and reclaiming urban landscapes. However, CARTA DE AMOR shifts this narrative to emphasize opening space instead, allowing for vulnerability, gratitude, and connection. This new direction reflects his journey into sobriety and celebrates the unwavering support of those closest to him.

The exhibition promises to immerse visitors in a rich tapestry of emotions and ideas, encouraging reflections on the many forms love can take—be it self-love, familial bonds, or communal solidarity. It responds to a collective need for connection and healing, making it particularly pertinent in today's socio-political climate.

Madison Gallery's Mission

Founded in 2001 by art enthusiast Lorna York, Madison Gallery endeavors to foster a vibrant cultural dialogue through its exhibitions. The gallery provides a platform for mid-career and established artists, advocating for diverse voices in the contemporary art scene. Its program emphasizes museum-quality works that resonate on both domestic and international stages.

The upcoming showcase of RETNA's work is not just about art; it is about the conversations it can spark among individuals from varied backgrounds and experiences. This exhibition challenges visitors to embrace the transformative power of love and the healing it can unleash. As RETNA puts it, "This moment is about connection—something that matters more than ever."

Exhibition Details

• - Title: LOVE LETTER | CARTA DE AMOR by RETNA
• - Dates: September 3 – October 11, 2025
• - Opening Night: September 20, 6 PM - 9 PM
• - Location: Madison Gallery, 320 S. Cedros Ave, Ste. 200, Solana Beach, CA 92075
• - Contact: For RSVP, please call 858-523-9155 or email [email protected]

This fall, immerse yourself in RETNA's evocative artistic journey, experiencing the depths of human emotion through the lens of a masterful contemporary artist.