How to balance opposing forces is the underlying question contemplated in the new exhibition Obstacleism: The Synthesis Series: Paintings by Farr Ligvani, opening June 9 at the Museum of Ventura County, and continuing through August 19.

The reception for Obstacleism: The Synthesis Series, as well as for the exhibitions One Time, One Place: Retablos by Dianne Bennett and Featured Creatures, is on Friday, June 8 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5; museum members are free.

Obstacleism is a term coined by Ligvani to describe his concept that obstacles can be viewed as welcome impediments in reconciling and balancing opposing forces in Eastern and Western cultures and in modern society. To visualize and contemplate these ideas, the artist traces a journey of lines through layers of texture and abstract shapes.

Ligvani’s interested in art and structure began as a child. In 1976 he moved from his native Iran to Los Angeles, where he studied at the Southern California Institute of Architecture and graduated in Industrial Design from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. His creative path has included designing, building, consulting, teaching, and painting.

The Museum of Ventura County is located at 100 East Main Street in downtown Ventura. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission to the exhibitions is $4 adults, $3 seniors, $1 children 6-17, members and children under 6 are free. The first Sundays of every month are free general admission for the public. For more museum information go to www.venturamuseum.org or call 805-653-0323.