Able ARTS Work Gallery in Long Beach

The Effect of Reciprocity Among Artists:
Carla and Professionals Working Together

This exhibit focuses on garment designs by Carla, including her prom dress, five costumes for stage productions of Orange County Children’s Theatre, and one for her own collection. In addition, two self-portraits offer a glimpse into Carla’s identity. Musical accompaniment is by pianist Jason Griffin, who has worked with Carla for the past four years.

The display shows Carla’s development from her first design in high school through private lessons in costume design and her work with professionals, including dressmakers, collaborations that have refined her artwork.

Working with professional artists has given Carla the skills, confidence, and experience to expand her work to playwright and designing the stage clothes for the characters of her first play, to be performed in 2026. Professional pianist and composer Jason Griffin composed the Overture and three additional pieces for Carla’s Passion Play.

This exhibit is to encourage others to develop their own gifts alongside professionals, who will undoubtedly be impacted by their work together.