ReCoding the Codex: A New Exhibition Intersects Language and Social Justice at ReflectSpace

From East L.A. to South Korea, international artists transform the Glendale Central Library into a space for interrogating colonization, labor exploitation, and the power of the written word.

This summer, the intersection of art and activism takes center stage at the Glendale Central Library. ReflectSpace is set to debut “ReCoding the Codex: Cultural Heritage through Language,” a powerful exhibition exploring the intricate bonds between language, social justice, and our shared cultural heritage. Running from July 25 through October 10, 2026, the exhibit transforms the library—a traditional repository for books—into a dynamic space where the very act of reading and seeing language is challenged and “re-coded”.

Moment of Venn: Mapping the Convergence of Creative Expression and Social Justice

In this edition of RabbleRouse News “Moment of Venn,” we visualize the magnificent intersection of artistic form and social activism found in ReCoding the Codex. At the center lies the heart of social justice in Los Angeles, surrounded by the diverse mediums from historical archival texts and calligraphy to immersive video and sculpture that these artists use to interrogate issues like colonization, the incarceration of Japanese Americans, and the exploitation of agricultural workers. This convergence reflects the gallery’s mission to use art and technology to reflect on Glendale’s communal fabric and urgent global human rights.

Harnessing the Power of the Word

The “codex,” or historical book, serves as the starting point for a group of international artists from the U.S. and Korea. Through a diverse range of media including sculpture, video, installation, painting, and drawing–these artists utilize scripts, historical records, and archival texts to shed light on urgent social justice issues. The exhibition creates a global dialogue, specifically addressing colonization, the incarceration of Japanese Americans, and the systemic exploitation of agricultural workers.

Featured Artists and Local Connections

The exhibit features a compelling lineup of artists, including:

• Hyun Ho Hwang
• Bryan Ida
• Jin Woo Kim
• Narsiso Martinez
• Jung Min Park

In a notable local collaboration, the exhibition extends into the library’s PassageWay with works from Self Help Graphics & Art, the iconic East L.A. institution. These pieces, drawn from their extensive print and monograph collection, further amplify the themes of cultural identity and social equity.

Art as a Mirror for Human Rights

Curated by Ara and Anahid Oshagan along with Monica Hye Yeon Jun, “ReCoding the Codex” is part of an ongoing series at ReflectSpace dedicated to cultural heritage. As an inclusive gallery, ReflectSpace is uniquely designed to interrogate global human rights issues and reflect on the communal fabric of Glendale. By employing interactive media and immersive art, the space encourages visitors to confront both past and present violations of human rights.

Opening Reception and Event Details

The community is invited to celebrate the launch of this exhibition at an Opening Reception next Saturday, July 25, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

• Dates: July 25 – October 10, 2026
• Location: ReflectSpace / Glendale Central Library, 222 East Harvard Street, Glendale, CA 91205
• Admission: Sponsored by the Glendale Arts & Culture Commission through the Urban Art Fund

For more information, residents can visit ReflectSpace.org or contact the Library, Arts & Culture department at (818) 548-2021