Diablo Valley College’s art exhibit “Women, Power and Spirit” celebrates the feminine side of both power and spirituality.

Philosophically inspired by Carl Jung’s psychology, Tibetan Buddhism and Native American spirituality, Catherine Jester, disability support services counselor and artist, hopes to instill a positive, strong image of females in the minds and hearts of her viewers through her mixed-medium creations.

Jester attempts to combat mainstream media’s degrading depiction of women through her art.

“It’s empowering to view women in a powerful way,” she said, “not as dependent, but as independent; not as needy, but as resourceful and strong.”

Raised in a masculine-favored, Judeo-Christian home, Jester has been searching for “the feminine side of Divine.”

“Spirituality and religion has been hijacked by the male,” she said.

Jester had the opportunity to discuss these concepts with attendees during a special “Artist’s Reception” on Sept. 18.

DVC librarian Ruth Sison, in reference to the exhibit says, “I’m so surprised with how wonderful it turned out.”

The star of the exhibit, and Jester’s personal favorite, “Artemis” the Greek goddess of hunt, was highlighted for her self-sufficiency and independence.

“I am impressed with what an artist can do with paper,” viewer Betty Bortz said.

Tatiana Cafaro, a humanities major, agreed.

“I love the different textures. It adds a beautiful depth,” she said.

Jester describes her art as a personal journey used for finding personal strength and believes that she taps into a universal message relatable to all.

“’Women, Power and Spirit’ praises aspects of me [Jester], aspects of all women and I would go even further and say aspects of all human beings,” Jester said.

Jimmy Xie, new to DVC this fall, says that he is glad his teacher mentioned the “Artist’s Reception.”

“Everything looks so unique and special. The ‘Tree Woman’ is my favorite,” he said.

The exhibit can be viewed until Oct. 24 at the Pleasant Hill campus library.