Street paving meets printmaking in White Center, where an unconventional artistic collaboration is about to make its gallery debut. This weekend, the Nepantla Cultural Arts Gallery will host the Steamroller Print Art Show, displaying massive, high-impact block prints created by six local artists using a rented multi-ton steamroller as their printing press.

The Road-Rolling Printing Press

The spectacular prints are the culmination of a community-driven project led by artist Jon Garaizar at last weekend's White Center block party. Moving printmaking out of the confines of a traditional studio and onto the asphalt, Garaizar and a team of artists carved massive blocks, inked them, and used the sheer weight of a rented steamroller to print them. The immense pressure of the heavy construction vehicle pressed the ink deep into the fibers, resulting in monumental, textured works of art that capture the high-energy, collaborative spirit of the public square. Now, Nepantla is bringing these public creations indoors, celebrating and hosting the final, polished products.

An All-Star Local Lineup

The exhibition features a stellar lineup of six local artists who participated in this unique block-printing project:

• Jon Garaizar (Project Lead)
• Eileen Jimenez
• Marcel Flores
• Trevor Kyler
• Dean Shinner
• Julia King

The striking visual identity of the exhibition flyer showcases a preview of the high-caliber art on display. It features an intricate, hand-carved block print of a winged creature rising against a full moon. Inscribed upon its feathers are the words "COMMUNITY ALWAYS RISES"—a powerful testament to the resilience, solidarity, and creative fire that defines both the neighborhood and the artists themselves.

A Celebrated Space for Community

There is perhaps no better venue to host this exhibition than the Nepantla Cultural Arts Gallery. Located in White Center at 9414 Delridge Way SW, Nepantla has established itself as a vital artistic sanctuary and neighborhood anchor. The gallery’s profound impact has been widely recognized: it has been named a "Best in the PNW" winner in both 2024 and 2025. Supported by esteemed regional partners including ArtsWA and 4Culture, Nepantla serves as a vibrant platform for local cultural expression.

Catch the Exhibition This Weekend

The Steamroller Print Art Show is a brief, exclusive opportunity to view these massive prints up close:

• Exhibition Dates: The gallery exhibition runs from August 29th through August 30th.
• Opening Reception: The public is invited to attend the opening reception on Friday, August 29th, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM to meet the artists, celebrate the work, and experience the community atmosphere.
• More Information: For more details about the gallery and upcoming events, visit www.nepantlaculturalarts.com