“Beyond the Decorative” is a collective contemporary art exhibition at Great Park Gallery. An opening reception is 1–3 p.m. Sunday, October 16. The exhibition runs through Saturday, December 31.

Before the 19th century, art served as an ornament, decorating walls and living quarters. “Beyond the Decorative” surveys how contemporary artists are redefining decorative techniques and subjects by creating new narratives relating to individuality and self-expression through the mediums of painting, photography, video, sculpture, textile design, and wallpapers.

This exhibition will feature an essay by artist and curator Constance Mallinson and include works from nationally and internationally recognized artists, including: Zafirah Ahmed, Casey Baden, Susy Bielak, Reed van Brunschot, Fatima Franks, Samantha Greenfeld, Michael Harnish, David Krovblit, Lesley Kice Nishigawara, Cecilia Paredes, Fred Schmalz, and Nikita Vishnevskiy.

Great Park Gallery hours are Thursdays and Fridays, noon–4 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The opening reception, exhibition, discussion, and parking are free. For more information, visit the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex Exhibitions page.