In Oakland’s Laurel District are paintings and mixed media pieces that represent the joy, hope and love that is expressed through strong familial bonds, music and hospitality. 

"IMAGES: Another Side of Me" is Valerie Brown-Troutt’s art exhibit at Conscious Collective, 4148 MacArthur Blvd., between 39th Avenue and Maybelle. The show, which opened July 30, runs through Sept. 9.

“It’s sort of a folk art feel to it,” explained curator Dvora Gordon. “There’s a lot of strength of emotion in her pieces and when you look at them you react. It’s very evocative.”