Restorative Partners is inviting artists from across San Luis Obispo County and beyond to apply to participate in Bridging the Gap: Portraits in Pencil, Impressions in Ink, an immersive art show taking place on May 16 at the Los Osos Community Center. 

 

This one-day event will feature live and displayed artwork that centers on portraits, sketching, and pen-and-ink work, highlighting the power of art to tell stories of identity, resilience, and second chances.​

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Restorative Partners’ mission is to transform lives and communities impacted by crime, incarceration, and addiction through healing, accountability, and hope. Art is a vital part of that mission, offering people in custody, in recovery, and returning from incarceration a creative pathway to process their experiences and envision a new future. By showcasing portrait and ink-based work from artists whose lives or loved ones intersect with these themes, Bridging the Gap aims to break down stigma and build deeper understanding between the community and those rebuilding their lives.​

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The event is seeking artists who specialize in:

• Sketching portraits (pencil or similar media)

• Pen and ink portraits and illustration

• Tattoo-inspired linework and flash-style designs presented as fine art on paper, canvas, or board​

 

Artists may participate in person on May 16, with the opportunity to create live sketches or portraits during the event, engage with guests, and display or sell their work. Selected artists may receive a modest stipend for their participation and are invited—but not required—to donate a work or experience (such as a custom portrait session) to the live or silent auction benefiting Restorative Partners.​

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Special consideration will be given to artists who are previously incarcerated, justice-involved, or in recovery, as well as artists who work closely with these communities. Restorative Partners is committed to centering the voices and talents of people with lived experience, and Bridging the Gap is designed as a platform for their stories to be seen and honored through line, shadow, and ink.​

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Event details

• Event: Bridging the Gap: Portraits in Pencil, Impressions in Ink

• Date: May 16

• Time: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

• Location: Los Osos Community Center

• Host: Restorative Partners​

 

For more information or to submit an artist application, please use this form.

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