City of Sunrise, FL
Home MenuSunrise Civic Center Art Gallery
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10610 West Oakland Park Boulevard
Sunrise, FL 33351
(954) 747-4646
The Sunrise Civic Center Art Gallery's normal operating hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Art Gallery will be closed on Sundays and Monday, unless there is a Theatre show, in which case it will open one hour prior to the scheduled start time.
ART GALLERY FEATURED ON "INSIDE SOUTH FLORIDA"
ABOUT THE ART GALLERY
Sunrise's municipal Art Gallery has showcased traveling exhibits, as well as the work of area artists. To celebrate new openings, the Gallery hosts free receptions (unless otherwise noted) that introduce Sunrise residents to the talented people behind the artwork. Please see our Theatre & Art Gallery events calendar to see upcoming exhibits and shows that we are offering.
If you're interested in showcasing your pieces please complete the Art Exhibitor Application. If you have any questions or would like to arrange a tour of our facilities, please call (954) 747-4290 or email CivicCenterTheatre@sunrisefl.gov.
Discover more art in our community at our Village Art Plaza, located at 2260 NW 68th Avenue, or learn more about Public Art in Sunrise.
CURRENT ART GALLERY EXHIBIT
"Pop Panels: The Fusion of Manga, Comics, & Pop Art"
EXHIBIT DATES: Friday, March 6, 2026 through Saturday, March 28, 2026
ART GALLERY HOURS OF OPERATIONS
Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Sunday and Monday, Closed
COST: Free
ABOUT THE EXHIBIT
In celebration of the vibrant creativity that fuels modern fandom, Pop Panels: The Fusion of Manga, Comics, & Pop Art brings together a dynamic collection of artists whose work exists at the crossroads of illustration, pop culture, and visual storytelling. Presented in association with Sunrise Comic Con, this exhibition highlights the bold aesthetics and imaginative worlds inspired by manga, comic books, and contemporary pop art.
Featuring work from acclaimed artists Pak Kwan and Silverback, the exhibition showcases striking examples of graphic artistry shaped by the traditions of comic book illustration and Japanese manga. Their pieces demonstrate how line, color, and composition can create immersive narratives—each panel and image capturing moments of drama, heroism, and emotional depth that resonate with fans across generations.
Expanding beyond illustration, award-winning cosplay photographer Ghost brings the world of fandom to life through vivid portrait photography that celebrates costume artistry and character embodiment. His colorful, body-positive imagery highlights the passion and creativity of the cosplay community, transforming beloved characters from page and screen into powerful visual portraits.
The exhibition also spotlights the next generation of creative voices with emerging artists Abigail Almacen and Rubyana Civil, whose work reflects the growing influence of anime, manga, and pop culture on young creators today. Their pieces demonstrate remarkable talent and fresh perspective, showing how these visual traditions continue to inspire new artistic directions.
Together, these artists represent multiple facets of contemporary pop culture art—from dynamic comic-style illustration to vibrant photographic storytelling. Pop Panels celebrates the artistic language of fandom while emphasizing how comics, manga, and pop art have evolved into a globally influential form of creative expression.
Presented alongside Sunrise Comic Con, the exhibition invites visitors to explore the artistry behind the characters, worlds, and visual styles that define modern geek culture. Whether you are a lifelong comic enthusiast, an anime devotee, a cosplay fan, or simply a lover of bold and imaginative art, Pop Panels offers a colorful window into the creativity that continues to shape the world of pop culture.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
ABIGAIL ALMACEN
Abigail “Abbey” Almacen (born 2008, Florida) is an 11th grade student whose creativity has been shaped by her family and friends. Encouraged by her mother at a young age, Abigail developed her passion for visual storytelling. Driven to improve skills and fueled by her interest of anime, Abigail began sketching wherever she could, translating her favorite characters from screen to tangible creations. What started as casual art developed into detailed, expressive work. She later explored anime acrylic paintings on glass, with several pieces purchased by collectors. Abigail also produces crochet crafts, including comic, plush figures and beanies. Currently, she is an active digital artist, blending traditional techniques with modern tools and sharing her skill with others.
Her creativity extends beyond visual arts. Abigail has a strong love for music, having joined the South Florida girls choir and taking ballet in her early years. She continues to play piano and is a self-taught guitarist influenced by people close to her. Travels with her family sparked interest in photography and videography, further broadening, her creative expression.
Alongside her artistic pursuits, Abigail is dedicated academically and athletically. As a dual enrolled high school student, she challenges herself with rigorous STEM courses. Having served as a student government officer since freshman year, Abigail demonstrates leadership and commitment to her school community, and currently applies skills she has developed in digital creation and editing. A lifelong swimmer, Abigail has joined Sunrise Swimming Team competitively, earning third place among 10 year-old girls at the Florida Gold Coast junior Olympics. Through art, music, leadership, academics, athletics, and photography, Abigail continues to grow as a well-rounded and passionate young individual with a bright and promising future.
Instagram | @craftedbyabbie
GHOST
Eleazar Soriano, better known in the creative community as Ghost, is a charismatic, multi-award-winning visual artist and portrait photographer based in South Florida. Known for his vibrant, body-positive imagery and bold creative direction, Ghost brings an unmistakable energy to every shoot, combining good vibes with a polished, professional edge. His photography blends striking color, dynamic lighting, and thoughtful composition to create visuals that celebrate individuality, confidence, and the art of storytelling.
A familiar presence throughout the South Florida cosplay and convention scene, Ghost has built a reputation for capturing the passion and craftsmanship that define cosplay culture. Working closely with cosplayers of all backgrounds and experience levels, he focuses on highlighting both the character being portrayed and the dedication behind the costume itself. Whether shooting in a studio setting or on location at conventions and themed events, Ghost approaches every project as a collaborative creative experience, producing images that feel cinematic, expressive, and true to the spirit of fandom.
Beyond the convention floor, Ghost’s work has earned widespread recognition for its artistic impact and community influence. His commitment to uplifting creators and promoting body-positive representation has helped him cultivate a loyal following and an ever-growing portfolio of bold, colorful portrait work. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the arts, Ghost was recently honored by both the City of Hialeah and the City of Doral, further cementing his reputation as one of South Florida’s most dynamic visual storytellers.
Art Instagram | @Xtremee_Ghost
Photography Instagram | @GhostXposure
PAK KWAN
Pak Kwan is an emerging Hong Kong–born artist and South Florida–based illustrator who is steadily making waves in the worlds of graphic design and comics. Known for his sharp, line-driven style, Pak creates depth, motion, and emotion through precise, deliberate strokes that give his work a striking visual intensity. Blending influences from both Eastern and Western comic traditions, his art balances technical detail with dynamic storytelling, allowing characters and worlds to leap vividly from the page.
Pak first captured attention with his debut comic, Elixir – The Last Days of Death #1 (2020), the opening chapter of the Elixir series. The book earned praise for its intricate detail, bold compositions, and cinematic action, helping establish Pak as a promising rising voice in independent comics. As the illustrator behind the series, he plays a vital role in shaping its visual identity, translating complex themes and dramatic moments into immersive sequential art that draws readers deeper into the story’s mysterious and powerful universe.
Today, Pak continues to expand his creative footprint through commissions, cover art, and sequential pages for upcoming projects while building an ever-growing portfolio of work. Active within the South Florida creative community, he connects with fans and fellow creators through conventions and collaborative opportunities, sharing his passion for the craft of comics. With every new illustration, Pak Kwan continues to refine his signature style and push his storytelling further, establishing himself as an artist to watch in the next generation of comic creators.
Website | www.pakkwanart.com
Instagram | @pakkwanart
Facebook | @Pak Kwan
RUBYANA CIVIL
My name is Rubyana Civil, I’m a 16-year-old artist who’s had a passion for art ever since the 2nd grade. The majority of my art is done digitally on my iPad with my finger. I base my art around media that inspires me, unique characters, and life experiences. I take these inspirations to help create stories and make art, not only make me happy, but other people as well. Even with all my rigorous classes and obstacles, I always can rely on art to be there for me. I hope to one day work in an animation studio as a concept artist collaborating with many people to create a beloved project. Art is much more than just a hobby for me. It’s a passion that I can’t see myself without and wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for my love for art.
SILVERBACK
Born and raised in New York City, Glaister "SILVERBACK" Ormsby’s imagination was shaped by the pulse of the city and the vibrant worlds of traditional animation, Japanese anime, and comic book art. Inspired by visionaries like Stan Lee, Greg Capullo, and Jim Lee, he didn’t just study their work—he absorbed their boldness, their dynamism, and their fearlessness. What began as a childhood fascination soon evolved into a thriving international design career, with his artwork reaching collectors and fans across multiple continents.
Taking on the mantle of his favorite animal, the gorilla, he transformed himself into SILVERBACK—a symbol of strength, leadership, and creative dominance. As CEO and Owner of Tattooed Ape Designs LLC, he has built more than a brand; he has built a legacy. From hyper-detailed portraits and sweeping murals to custom comic commissions that feel ready to leap off the page, his work commands attention and celebrates imagination in its purest form.
But SILVERBACK’s greatest masterpiece may be his impact. As a mentor, educator, and 27-time published author, he stands as living proof that passion can become profession and that creativity can carve out its own lane of success. His journey sends a powerful message to young Black children everywhere: their ideas matter, their art has value, and their dreams are not only valid—they are achievable. Through every brushstroke and bold line, SILVERBACK creates more than art; he creates possibility.
Artist Website | www.tattooedapedesigns.com
Artist Instagram | @tattooedapedesigns
Author Website | www.karljerrycraig.com/
Author Instagram | @tattooedapepublishing
Civic Center Art Gallery Hours of Operation:
Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Sunday and Monday, Closed