Cande Aguilar Exhibition

Local artist cande Aguilar will have an art exhibition called "Mi Pueblo" at the Tre Fratelli Italian Restaurant. Go check it out!

What: "Mi Pueblo" art exhibition
Who: Artist Cande Aguilar
When: Oct. 23rd - Nov. 23rd
Where: Tre Fratelli Italian Restaurant
3001 Pablo Kisel, suite N,
Brownsville, Texas
956-574-9867, afreihofer@trefratelli.com

Artist Bio:

Cande Aguilar, Jr. was born on July 3, 1972 in Brownsville, TX. A self taught artist, he began his career as a musician at the age of 10 and recorded his first album by the age of 13. In 1991 he was awarded the best in show ribbon for an oil painting he submitted to a local competition amongst high schools. In 1992, Cande went on to pursue his musical career becoming a founding member of the Latin Tejano band, Elida y Avante. In a period of nine years the band toured the United States and received numerous awards, such as, The Tejano Music Award, The Billboard Magazine Award, and several gold and platinum records. The touring period allowed Cande to mature and gain inspiration from a diverse culture. In 1999 he painted his first oil painting, after an eight year recess. Cande has since accumulated an impressive young body of work. In this short period, he has shown his passion and dedication for the arts. Although young, his maturity as an artist has evolved and flourished, which can be seen in his work. Cande’s work is an example of the unique art form found in the Rio Grande Valley.

Artist Statement:

As an artist its important for me to give the viewer the opportunity to become one with sensitivity. In time this art will reveal a truth that conveys to an existence that is unique to our world in the 21st century. In my art the mixed media technique opens the doors of dimension, allowing me to abstract from the primitive, classical, modern and contemporary state. I believe that music and art is an abstract through which we channel ourselves, consciously or subconsciously, to experience the universe of life.

Image, Statement and Bio came from Austin Galleries.com. To contact Cande Aguilar click here.

TCA Young Masters Program

Interested in attending a summer program at the Art Institute of Chicago, Juilliard or Tanglewood? Do you need help for additional arts training beyond school? Learn about the Young Master’s Program, a $2500 scholarship program for 8th to 12th grade students who are the future art stars of Texas in dance, literature, media arts, music, musical theatre, theatre and visual arts. Brenda Tharp and Cassandra Scholte from the Texas Commission on the Arts will be providing basic information and answering questions about the Young Masters application process.

Who Should Attend: Students, Parents, Art Teachers(performing, visual, literary, media)
Who: Texas Commission on the Arts
What: Young Masters Program
When: Tuesday, November 1, 2005 at 5:30pm
Cost: Free
Where: McAllen Chamber of Commerce
1200 Ash Avenue
McAllen, Texas 78501
For Map Click Here

Young Masters Application and Guidelines are available online at: www.arts.state.tx/ym.
To RSVP by Monday, October 31, 2005 at 5pm, call Mia M. Buentello-Andrade at 956-682-5336 or mia@arts.state.tx.us

"From the Grave" Exhibition by photographer Noe Truan at BHA

Brownsville- The Brownsville Heritage Museum, located in the Brownsville Heritage Complex in historic downtown Brownsville, invites the public to the opening of From the Grave: Images of Brownsville's Historic Cemetery, a photography exhibition by Brownsville photographer Noe Ricardo Truan. The exhibition opens on Thursday, October 27, 2005 with a reception scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The reception is free and the public is invited to attend.

From the Grave: Images of Brownsville's Historic Cemetery
will be on view at the Brownsville Heritage Museum through November 20, 2005.

Noe Ricardo Truan, a Brownsville native, is son of Brownsville artist George Truan and Bitty Truan. He is currently a student at the University of Texas-Brownsville. His long-term goal is to pursue a career in photography, and he prefers the old fashioned methods of photography, specifically black and white photography. He also collects old cameras and develops his own negatives and prints.

"Since my birthday is on Day of the Dead and my personal experiences have included several visits to graveyards, I became fascinated with old cemeteries. It bothers me to see how beautiful marble tombstones have been defaced and I wanted to capture not only the beauty, but also the damage. I love the Historic Brownsville Cemetery and have taken photos there at every hour of the day. My favorite time is in the early evening," said Truan.

Select prints of the photographs will be for sale in the museum gift shop, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the mission of the Brownsville Historical Association.

The mission of the Brownsville Historical Association is to preserve and promote all things relating to the rich history of Brownsville, Texas, and its environs.

The Brownsville Heritage Complex, located at 1325 E. Washington St. in historic downtown Brownsville, includes the Stillman House Museum, the Brownsville Heritage Museum and the Heritage Resource Center. Museum hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. For more information on Brownsville Heritage Complex exhibitions and programs, please call 956-541-5560 or email info@brownsvillehistory.org.

Community Heritage Dia de los Muertos Altar

By way of the Brownsville Historical Association:

Brownsville- The Brownsville Historical Association invites individuals from the community to participate in creating the Brownsville Heritage Community Altar Installation for Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The public is invited to bring an object, clothing, toys, mementos, or photographs of dearly departed loved ones to place on the altar to the Brownsville Heritage Museum from October 17-November 1.

The altar installation will stay on exhibit at the Brownsville Heritage Museum through November 5, 2005. Objects and photographs will be available for pick-up by owners after this date.

Dia de los Muertos traces its roots to Pre-Conquest Mexico. When the Spaniards arrived in the New World, they encountered the Aztecs and other indigenous people of Mexico practicing a seemingly incomprehensible ritual that honored the dearly departed. More than 500 years later, the ritual lives on and is now known as Dia de los Muertos.

Considered one of Mexico's most important festivals, the occasion is often celebrated with feasting, building elaborate home altars, cleaning and decorating graves, dancing and music. Recently, the practice of celebration Day of the Dead in the United States has grown tremendously since its introduction during the Chicano Movement of the early 1970s. Today, the tradition of Dia de los Muertos extends into parts of the Southwest.

For the Brownsville Heritage Museum, this occasion is an opportunity to honor individuals from our community that have passed on. The altar is a tribute to Brownsville's past and to those individuals who in their own way contributed to building this vibrant community.

The Brownsville Heritage Museum is also offering a free Dia de los Muertos activity packet for teachers and community members that are interested in sharing information about the holiday. The activity packet is available at the Brownsville Heritage Museum by request and includes a word search game, mix and match puzzle, 4 coloring pages, and a papel picado lesson plan, and more.

The mission of the Brownsville Historical Association is to preserve and promote all things relating to the rich history of Brownsville, Texas, and its environs.

The Brownsville Heritage Complex, located at 1325 E. Washington St. in downtown Brownsville, includes the Stillman House Museum, the Brownsville Heritage Museum and the Heritage Resource Center. Museum hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

For more information on Brownsville Heritage Complex exhibitions and programs, please call 956-541-5560 or email info@brownsvillehistory.org.

Teaching Artist Positions Available

Received via Texas Commission on the Arts:

REGION ONE ARTS ALIVE
TEACHING ARTIST POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Region One Arts Alive, an arts-in-learning program of Region One Education Service Center and VSA arts of Texas is currently looking for adult Teaching Artists in all mediums, including visual art, dance, drama, music, media arts, and literary arts. At the core of the program is a 500+ page resource, START WITH THE ARTS/EMPIECE CON LAS ARTES, comprised of arts-based lessons, tips, and helpful resources to bring arts and reading to all Texas children, every day. We are particularly in need of those who are bi-lingual (Spanish and English speaking) and who are interested in teaching early childhood (grades pre K- 3). Applicants must have daytime availability. Artists with disability are strongly encouraged, but all Artists in the ESC One area in all disciplines and styles, including, folk, classical, and contemporary, are welcome to apply.

Ideal candidates for the Region One Arts Alive program should have:
· Prior experience providing hands-on arts instruction to children
· Experience working with children with disabilities a plus, but not required
· Proven artistic ability
· Excellent communication skills
· Ability to work in a supportive role with classroom educator

To be eligible to teach in this program, you MUST attend a free two-day training November 30 and December 1, 2005, at Region One Education Service Center in Edinburg, Texas, and be available for a short interview on Dec 2, 2005.

If selected for the program, Teaching Artists will be compensated on a contract basis commensurate with experience. Placements may range from 10-50 hours total per artist between January and May 2006.

Those interested MUST complete a background check before applying. For more information or to obtain an application packet, please contact:

Larissa Quon
Community Development Coordinator
VSA arts of Texas
3710 Cedar Street, Box 7
Austin, Texas 78705
(512) 454-9912 voice
(512) 454-1944 fax
larissa@vsatx.org

Closing date for position inquiries is November 15, 2005.

Dichos #1

"Hechando a perder se aprende."

figurative English translation:
"By making mistakes we learn."

A dicho is a spanish saying or proverb.

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My story behind this dicho:

My mom and mom's best friend are making little canvas bible bags for their church's 96th anniversary. They are improvising the pattern and by Sunday there will be over 100 bags with little painted pictures I helped design that say "Mi Biblia". I admire the tenacity of the women in church and I like to hear the conversations and observe the social interactions between them. It reminds me so much of the social interactions between the characters in the Jane Austen novels, which probably explains why enjoy reading Jane Austen.

Today, my mom's best friend said the dicho above to my mom in concern to the patterns for the bag and I couldn't help but to take it as advice for life as well. It's okay to make mistakes. I have to remind myself of that all the time. So hearing this dicho hit the spot today and I wanted to share it with you all.

I have learned so much wisdom from the women at church. What frustrates me is that women's church groups are made fun as "la chismenil"...a pun on the spanish term "la feminil" to mean "gossipers". From my observations, women often are the most active members and contributors of the church. In most evangelist churchs, women are not even considered for deacon positions much less as pastors. I think this is terribly unjust...but when I bring this up with my mom it really isn't an issue. For her, the work has always been more for God than the politics of the church...For the greater good...it truly is an unselfish act. Now if we could only have more people like that in power.

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If you would like to share a dicho please fell free to use the comments option below. Any insight on it would be great as well. Dichos are such a staple cultural element in Valley culture. In the future I will also want to cover Harlingen artist Jennifer Rodriguez's interpretive paintings of Mexican American dichos. I wish I had a picture I could show you all (they are wonderful paintings) but hopefully by next Dicho post, I will have some more info to share on her work.

Latin Festival Call for Artists

ARTISTS!
You are welcomed to display your art FREE at the 9th annual Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival.
October 13-16, 2005

Art to be displayed at all festival locations.
Produced by local artists and friends of Imagenes Art Studio!

Space is limited! Get in contact with Imagenes Studio now!

For more info on the Jazz Festival click here.

Tears, Passion and Rage

Catch another opportunity to attend Rogelio Agrasanchez Jr.'s presentation

TEARS, PASSION AND RAGE
The heyday of Mexican movies in the United States

Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Arunlfo L. Oliveira Memorial Library
Benito Longoria Room
(956) 882-7410

For more info on the event click here.

For more info on Mexican Cinema click here.

Healing Colors of the World Reminder

Greetings!

Just wanted to remind you all of the

Healing Colors of the World" Art Exhibit
October 7th - 9th
Presented by
Imagenes Art Studio & Paseo Plaza

Come and enjoy new art by new artists from around the Valley
Reception Friday, October 7th, 7-9 p.m.
Exhibit dates October 7 to October 9th (All Day)

Paseo Plaza Shopping Center
1805 E. Ruben Torres Blvd
Brownsville, TX 78526
956-574-0088

FOR ALL EXHIBIT INFORMATION AND TO SIGN UP ONLINE PLEASE VISIT: www.representonline.com and click on Imagenes Art Studio.

Something to think about

Received this artcile via the Texas Commission on the Arts:

NEA and CPB Funding UPDATE
Republicans Eye Killing NEA, CPB

By Roger Armbrust

An advisory panel composed of over 100 Republican members of the House of Representatives has recommended ending all funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). The NEA is the federal government's chief source of funding for nonprofit theatre groups, dance companies, and arts presenters. The CPB is a major funder of noncommercial broadcast programming of the performing arts.

The Republican Study Committee recommended that the two agencies be eliminated as part of its "RSC Budget Options 2005" report. The 23-page analysis offers cuts in nearly every area of the federal budget, leading to savings of $102.1 billion in fiscal year 2006, five-year savings of $369.9 billion, and a decade's savings of $949.7 billion.

Presented by Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.), the RSC's chairman, and Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas), the committee's budget and spending task force chairman, the study indicates that the lost federal funds could be made up through private sources.

"In 2001, America spent $27 billion on nonprofit arts funding: $11.5 billion from the private sector; $14 billion in earned income (tickets sales, etc.); and $1.3 billion in combined federal, state, and local public support (of which $105 million was from the NEA -- 0.39% of total nonprofit arts funding)," the report states. "The funding could easily be funded by private donations. Savings: $1.8 billion over ten years ($678 million over five years)."

As for public television, the report notes, "CPB, which receives $400 million annually from Congress, funds the Public Broadcasting Service at 15% of its annual budget. The other 85% of PBS's budget comes from viewer donations, local government, and universities. CPB and PBS continue to use federal funding to pay for questionable programming, such as a documentary on sex education funded by the Playboy Foundation. Additionally, much of the programming on PBS, such as 'Sesame Street,' could bring in enough annual revenues to cover the loss of federal funding. Savings: $5.6 billion over ten years ($2.2 billion over five years)."

The report does not indicate specifically how programs such as "Sesame Street" could raise that revenue.

The RSC has also recommended eliminating the National Endowment for the Humanities, which supports research, education, preservation, and public programs in the humanities. "As with the NEA, the general public benefits very little" from the NEH, the report declares, "and it could easily be funded by private donations. Savings: $2 billion over ten years ($769 million over five years)."

A revised version of the report is dated Sept. 22. On Wed., Sept. 28, Americans for the Arts, a national arts advocacy group, alerted its membership to the threatened funding cuts. The organization said in an emailed "arts action alert" that the RSC was using the devastation of Hurricane Katrina as a rationale for the recommended cuts: "Needless to say, cutting this funding would not even make a dent in the need for hurricane relief, and at the same time it would deprive the affected areas of much-needed help in rebuilding their vital cultural sectors."

Although the RSC makes no mention of Hurricane Katrina in its report, the document is headlined "Operation Offset," a reference to the group's "effort to find savings in the federal budget to pay for hurricane relief," according to its website.

Americans for the Arts did not respond to questions about whether a House bill that would end funding for the NEA and the CPB was actually in the works. A call to Rep. Pence's office in Washington was not returned by press time Tuesday.
Backstage 10/5/05
www.backstage.com

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Yes, as always when budgets need to get cut, it's usually the arts that get the ax. While I do think that arts entities need to continue to search for more private-sector sponsors, I also believe that support from the public sector needs to remain as a vital option to protect the arts from too much commercial infiltration. Will Elmo have to exclusively wear Nike shoes on TV so that PBS can keep operating? Will our children have to start learning about Jazz through interrupting commercials for MP3 players? Yes, just like our government protects our constitution and our national security, I also believe that our government should protect, preserve and promote the cultural arts of our nation. And while the arts can be a controversial field, there is much integrity in it to defend! The arts have power to inspire passion and action in individuals and communities alike! The arts will also become a key economic force in the revitalization of communities affected by Hurricane Katrina, especially in concern to New Orleans. The arts will continue to tell our story for times beyond our own. Public funding for the arts must remain so that when these stories get passed on, it's not with a corporate logo branded on. Don't get me woring, I think private-sector funding is great, but I strongly believe that public funding needs to remain in the picture to act as a balance, because once commercialism becomes the only option things can get out of hand! Don't believe me? Click here for an example of commercialism going to far.

BISD Faculty Art Show

11th Annual BISD Faculty Art Show
September 30 to October 28, 2005

The 11th Annual BISD Art Faculty Art Show opens Friday, September 30 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Brownsville Art League Museum of Fine Arts on 230 Neale Drive. There will be 2-dimentional and 3-dimentional original artworks from 20 art educators in the district. Invited artists this year are Jose Martinez, Martin Elementary Assistant Principal, Sue Tarrant, retired art teacher, and Mayra Cruz, Brownsville artist. The show is organized by Juan R. Garcia, BISD Specialist for Fine Arts. The show is free to the public and will be on exhibit until October 28, 2005. Call the Brownsville Art League at 542-0941 for museum hours.

Brown Bag Lunch

Hello folks! Hope you all are doing well. Just wanted to invite you all to the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art's Brown Bag Lunch Lecture for this month, on Friday, September 30th, 2005 from 11am-1pm, where I will be the guest artist/speaker. I will be talking about my art, in particular about my shoe art and will lead a shoe portrait art activity. I will also talk about The Art of Brownsville.

WHAT: The Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts Brown Bag Lunch Lecture
WHO: Guest Artist Mayra Cruz
WHERE: The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, 230 Neale Drive, Brownsville, Texas 78520
WHEN: Friday, September 30th, 2005
TIME: 11am-1pm
The public is invited to bring their lunch. The lecture series is free. RSVP at (956) 542-0941.

Celebrity Anime Voice Actor in Brownsville

Received this info by way of the UTB Anime Viewing Club:

The Brownsville Otaku Anime Society presents

Vic Mignogna
voice of Edward Elric from
Fullmetal Alchemist
(for TV viewing times visit AdultSwim.com)


October 1, 2005
12pm - 4pm
Brownsville Public Library
2600 Central Boulevard

Vic Mignogna is a professional music composer/producer and veteran actor with ADV films, most recently voicing characters in such anime series as Edward Elrich in Fullmetal Alchemist and Broly in Dragonball Z. Vic has been guest at many anime conventions across the nation and will be coming to the Rio Grande Valley for the first time ever. The Rio Grande Valley will have its first anime convention SHIMAKON on September 22-24, 2006 at the South Padre Island Convention Center.

An Eventful Sunday

Today I had the opportunity to attend two cultural arts events. The first event I attended was a presentation by Rogelio Agrasanchez Jr. on the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema at The Brownsville Historical Association. It was an interesting presentation with a really good turn out and some good food if I may add (my mom catered). I also enjoyed the wealth of knowledge and visual resources Mr. Agrasanchez shared and you can learn more about his Mexican film archives by visiting http://www.mexfilmarchive.com. The only thing that I wished he could have done is to focus more on the topic of Mexican films in The Rio Grande Valley. I really would have liked to know more on that subject but he will be back in Brownsville to give a presentation at UTB on October 11th, so maybe then he will give more local insight.

The event was also a bittersweet experience because it was Carmen Zacarias's last event as director of the Brownsvillle Heritage Complex. Carmen will be greatly missed and The Art of Brownsville gives her praises and appreciation for all of the work she has done for the Brownsville community. As director, she was most instrumental in making the Brownsville Heritage Complex an impressive facility dedicated to the history and heritage of our beautiful city and to serving its public. Brownsville is going to be loosing one heck of a community and cultural advocate and I hope Carmen will come back to visit us often! (Thank you so much for everything Carmen!)


Bailamos!
Originally uploaded by artofbrownsville.

After this event, my cousin David and I headed over to San Benito to attend the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center Conjunto Festival. People were enjoying the activity, hearing live music and socializing. I especially enjoyed watching and taking pictures of the couples dancing in front of the stage. We also got a look at the John Dyers "Conjunto" art exhibit and I was so impressed with his color photo technique and of his ability to capture the essence of the musicians he pictured. David and I had a good time trying to decipher what statement the photographed musicians were saying through their expressions and poses. The show will close on October 12th so go see it before it's gone!

I was also happy to see the San Benito square bustling with activity and people and I hope that the City of San Benito will continue to work to make that a much more common occurrence. Truly, this is a community dedicated to local music (you have The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center, The Conjunto Hall of Fame and Freddy Fender active in the community). If Austin is the "Live Music Capitol of the World", I would say San Benito is the "Live Music Capitol of the Rio Grande Valley", but to people who love their town, San Benito is "the Center of the Universe". More people should learn from the example of these San Benito community members because we need more support and appreciation of The Rio Grande Valley/Tamaulipas Frontera by its own residents.

To see more pictures of the festival CLICK HERE.
To read Herald coverage of the events click the links below:
Golden Age of Mexican Cinema
Conjunto Festival

TCA Rio Grande Valley ARTSMeet

You are invited to take part in the ARTSMeet dialogue that will bring together the arts community in the Rio Grande Valley! The Texas Commission on the Arts will facilitate this initial meeting. This gathering will introduce you to concepts that will assist you in building organizational capacity, audiences, and to create an important and valuable impact in your community. Texas Commission on the Arts’ Executive Director, Ricardo Hernandez and Jim Bob McMillan, Deputy Director will lead the discussion. Invited guests include representatives from Texans For the Arts.

Who should attend?
· Local arts organizations (incorporated and unincorporated)
· Arts Administrators
· Board members of nonprofit local arts organizations
· Arts Educators
· Arts Advocates/Supporters
· Artists
· Local Media

Who: Texas Commission on the Arts
What: ARTSMeet
When: Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Where: South Texas College, Weslaco Campus
Lecture Hall G – 191
400 N. Border, Weslaco Texas 78596
Time: 6pm—7pm Meet and Greet Reception
7pm-8pm ARTSMeet Meeting will begin.

To RSVP, contact Mia M. Buentello-Andrade at mia@arts.state.tx.us, or call 956-682-5336. RSVP deadline is Monday, September 26, 2005.

CineSol Film Festival

Via Las Comadres:

12TH ANNUAL CINESOL FILM FESTIVAL
Sept. 23 - Oct. 8

BROWNSVILLE - The CineSol Film Festival opens Sept. 23 in Brownsville and concludes Oct. 8 in McAllen. The two-week festival kicks off in Brownsville with a public reception from 7-8 p.m. at Four Points Sheraton, 3777 N. Expwy 77. Free admission. The opening weekend includes independent film screenings with special guests, filmmaker's workshops and forums, live entertainment and a one-night art exhibition. Opening weekend workshops and screenings take place at Cinemark Movies 10 at 3471 Old Hwy 77 (across from the Red Roof Inn), (956) 544-7200. This year, Cinemark, an annual sponsor of Cinesol, increased their support by providing one screen for the exclusive use of the festival for their opening weekend. Screenings include the work of local filmmakers as well as works submitted by filmmakers from California, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and New York. This year, for the first time, one entire day is devoted to local filmmakers. A catered after-party and one-night art show takes place Sat. night at the Ringgold Civic Pavilion at Dean Porter Park from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., $25 at the door or included with the $50 festival pass. Festival passes for opening weekend are on sale at the Brownsville Convention and Visitors Bureau and, during opening weekend only, at the Cinemark Movies 10 in Brownsville. The $30 festival pass gives access to all opening weekend screenings and workshops. The $50 festival pass gives access to all opening weekend screenings and workshops, plus the after-party on Sat. at the Ringgold Civic Pavilion. Admission to each feature film screening is $10, sold at the door only. Admission to workshops and afternoon screenings is $10 each day, sold at the door only. (Combined admission to screenings/workshops is $50.) After the opening weekend, special outreach screenings are scheduled at schools and theaters across the Rio Grande Valley and in Matamoros, Mexico. To celebration their continued working alliance, the Brownsville Border Film Commission, a major sponsor for the opening weekend, will join CineSol to promote independent films, documentaries and shorts and the talented people who create them. A Sept. 9 film commission press release states that they are very proud that CineSol decided to bring "one of the top media art events in Texas" to Brownsville. "It is our hope that Brownsville will become the permanent venue for the kick-off weekend of the CineSol Film Festival," said Peter Goodman, Border Film Commissioner. Schedules, dates, times, ticket locations and other vital information are posted on www.cinesol.com.

Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival

Received word of this via Las Comadres Network:

BROWNSVILLE – The Ninth Annual Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival, Oct. 13-16, features nightly dance concerts and a Sunday afternoon street party. The festival headliner this year is top Conga player, Giovanni Hidalgo, and his Latin jazz ensemble based out of New York City. Opening for Hidalgo is Melena, considered the top female Latin jazz percussionist, and her eight piece band based out of Los Angeles.

“Because of the talent that is being brought, this is one of the most exquisite jazz festivals in the U.S.” – Henry Brun, Henry Brun and the Latin Playerz (Brownsville Herald 10/29/05).

As the heat of summer fade into perfect balmy evenings, it’s time for normally laid-back locals to cut loose and dance.

This year’s festival opens Oct. 13 with “Latin Jazz Jam at Las Campanas,” a free outdoor concert featuring Tomás Ramirez, Charles Hearn and other regional performers, from 8-12 p.m. at the Las Campanas Mall at corner of Rubén Torres (FM 802) & Paredes Line Rd. in North Brownsville.

Friday night is “Michelob-Ultra Latin Dance Night” the Rio Grande Valley’ premier Salsa dance event featuring the Shati Orchestra from San Antonio and showcases by Salsa dance masters from throughout Texas. Jacob Brown Auditorium, doors open 7 p.m. and event concludes at 2 a.m.. Tickets are $20. Purchase discount tickets online at www.brosociety.org or at the door on the night of the event. Discounted advance ticket sales start August 15 (online only).

The Jacob Brown Auditorium is transformed into a tropical nightclub for “Night at the Copa with Giovanni Hidalgo,” Saturday, 8-12 p.m. Melena and her eight piece band open for Giovanni Hidalgo and his Latin jazz ensemble. Food and beverages on sale. Mojito cocktails, beer and wine available. Reserve tables are $500, purchase at brosociety.org or call (956) 831-9590 for more information. $20 general admission tickets will be available at the door the night of the event.

THE “CAPITOL THEATRE STREET PARTY” on Sunday is a free outdoor concert in front of the Capitol Theatre in Historic Downtown Brownsville. Acts to include Chuchito Valdes Jr. (Chicago), Rosalia de Cuba (Houston), Melena and others. This is a popular family event with food vendors, art show and dance exhibitions. Event opens at 3 p.m. and concludes at 10 p.m. Located on Levee Street between 10th and 12th Streets. Take Expressway 77/83 to 6th St., exit south to St. Charles St. and turn left. Drive to 11th St. Free parking available on street.

For more information and advance ticket sales, visit www.brosociety.org or call (956) 831-9590.

WHAT: Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival
WHEN: Oct. 13-16 (Thurs -Sun)
WHERE:
Thursday - “Latin Jazz Jam at Las Campanas,” at Paseo de la Resaca
FREE, 8 p.m.-12 midnight
Friday - "Michelob-Ultra Latin Dance Night" at Jacob Brown
Auditorium, $20, 7 p.m.-2 a.m.
Saturday - "Night at the Copa with Giovanni Hidalgo" $500 reserve
tables, $20 gen. admission at the
door. 7 p. m.-12 midnight.
Sunday - Capitol Theatre Street Party in Brownsville's Historic
District. FREE, 3 p.m.-10 p.m.

Tickets and complete schedule available online at brosociety.org.

Conjunto Festival Reminder

14th Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival
Sept. 16, 17, & 18, 2005
The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center
225 E. Stenger Street
San Benito, Texas 78586
(956) 361-0110

For more information about the festival CLICK HERE.

More Calls for Artists

Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival

Artists! You are welcomed to display your artwork at the Latin Jazz Festival

Exhibit Day 1
When:Thursday, October 13th
Where: Las Campanas Shopping Center (by paseo plaza just off FM802)
How: Art display will be set up outside under a roof.
Cost: Free for artists to exhibit (not free to attend actual festival)

Exhibit Days 2 & 3
When: Friday & Saturday, October 14, 15
Where: Jacob Brown Auditorium
How: Art exhibit is indoors
Cost: Free for artists to exhibit (not free to attend actual festival)

**Please note that space is limited. The art exhibit is NOT a part of the street dance at the capital theatre**

For more information please contact me at 956-574-0088
tues-sat 11 - 5 or 6 or email me back. Hope everyone can attend. This is a great opportunity to show your art FREE OF CHARGE!!

Evelyn Cameron, Marketing Assistant for Imagenes Art Studio
www.imagenesstudio.com

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Dia de los Muertos Exhibit at the McAllen Creative Incubator

The McAllen Creative Incubator is calling artists for the exhibition, Dia de los Muertos- Interpretations: Traditional and Contemporary. Artists working in all media and styles are welcomed to participate. Selected works will be displayed in a 2 week exhibit October 18—November 3, 2005. Artists may enter up to two original works in any medium depicting interpretations of the traditional celebration.

For an entry form send an inquiry to the following email: arte_monroe@yahoo.com

Promote Your Art Here!

If you would like to promote your RGV/Tamaulipas fine arts related (visual arts, perfoming arts, film, humanities and/or internet) related events/activities/work/site, send me an email or leave a comment with your email on this post. Thanks!

Help Those Affected by Hurricane Katrina...updated

Please help the thousands affected by Hurricane Katrina's massive destruction. Make a donation to the Red Cross through their website or by phone at 1-800 HELP NOW (1-800-435-7669.) People are dying and starving in the streets and many people who can help have their hands tied due to flooded buildings and streets, overcrowded and depleted facilities, lack of electricity and social choas. This is nothing short of a major crisis. So please make a donation now.

NEW UPDATE:

Straight from the source. No Hoax.

Thanks to Wendy who also has a blog called All My Tediousness Upon Thee for emailing me information about a new donation opportunity. Valley TV station KVEO will hold a booth at The Scorcher on Sunday, September 11th in the Hidalgo Dodge Arena, to collect donations for the hurricane relief effort called The Wall of Caring. 100% of all money collected will go to the National American Red Cross hurricane relief effort.

If you are looking for donation outlets closer to Brownsville, check out the Herald's new list.

If you are feeling a little demoralized or down about the matter, click here to listen to Coldplay's song Don't Panic. It always lifts my spirit in worrisome times.

Imagenes Art Studio: Call for Artists & Upcoming Exhibit

Artists! You are cordially invited to participate in the
"Healing Colors of the World" Art Exhibit
October 7th - 9th
Presented by
Imagenes Art Studio & Paseo Plaza

Come and enjoy new art by new artists from around the Valley
Reception Friday, October 7th, 7-9 p.m.
Exhibit dates October 7 to October 9th (All Day)

Paseo Plaza Shopping Center
1805 E. Ruben Torres Blvd
Brownsville, TX 78526
956-574-0088

FOR ALL EXHIBIT INFORMATION AND TO SIGN UP ONLINE PLEASE VISIT: www.representonline.com and click on Imagenes Art Studio. Deadline is Sept 30th.

Golden Age of Mexican Cinema

The Brownsville Historical Association presents: A presentation on the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema

Join us for a spectacular PowerPoint presentation by Rogelio Agrasánchez, Jr.
Sunday, September 18, 2005 @ 2:00 P.M.
The Brownsville Historical Association
Brownsville Heritage Museum
1325 E. Washington St. (956) 541-5560
No admission fee – open to the public

Mr. Agrasánchez will discuss the exhibition of Mexican movies in the United States during the 1940s-50s and his upcoming book, Tears, Passion & Rage: The Heyday of Mexican Movies in the United States (1920-1960). He is the curator of the world’s largest private collection of Mexican movie memorabilia. www.mexfilmarchive.com

TCA Class of Young Masters

By way of Texas Commission on the Arts:

2006 Class of Young Masters

Every two years, the Texas Commission on the Arts awards the Young Masters Scholarship to talented 8th through 12th grade Texas students. This program is not a college scholarship, but instead it is a unique program offering Texas students advanced arts training so that when they apply for college programs or art schools they will have an extra competitive edge. It is the hope of the Texas Commission on the Arts that each Young Master will be a professional artist one day.

You will find extensive online content designed to help you complete the application process. Please take care and read all the material first. Click on Young Masters Application when you go to TCA's website....

www.arts.state.tx.us

In The Paper Today

Check out the Herald's coverage of The Art of Brownsville. Also check out the story on the UTB/TSC Patron of the Arts 2005-2006 season calendar of events. Many thanks to reporter Mike Moody and photographer Liza Longoria.

Young Brownsville Artist On The Rise

Cultures
by Rachael Rudnik
24 x 36
Acrylic on Canvas

Artist Statement:

My painting represents who I am. It is a collage of images from my culture, both inherited and acquired. I demonstrate the mix of cultures I experienced growing up by incorporating my Spanish mission style Episcopal church in the bottom left, my two older sisters who were both born in Honduras in the lower right and elements of historic Brownsville blended with images from travels in Britain, where my grandfather grew up . I also incorporated Polish designs into the road, representing my Polish heritage. I put an image of myself into an open field which graduates to large sand dunes and a vast mountain range to show my independent character and my appreciation for natural formations.

Artist Bio:

Rachael Rudnik was born in Brownsville, TX and is a senior at the Lopez Fine Arts Academy. She has demonstrated an interest and ability in art since she was a young child. Some of Rachael’s work has been displayed at the Brownsville Independent School District Administration offices, Lopez High School, Brownsville Historic Museum and the Brownsville Art League. She participated in the Fronteras Cruzadas ArtsReach program in 2004, developing a 3 dimensional display of historic Brownsville photographs and in the Tercera Cultura Visual Arts Education program of the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center in San Benito, Texas. She works in a wide range of media including ceramics, painting, drawing, sculpture and printmaking. She plans to attend art school after high school graduation to continue her studies of the visual arts.

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Personal Note:
I had the pleasure of getting to know Rachael as participant of the Fronteras Cruzadas and Tercera Cultura programs. She is a dedicated and talented artist who puts great effort and heart into her work. She rose to the challenges set by both programs and incorporated Brownsville, Texas into her to work to visualize her diverse cultural heritage. (Take note of the Episcopal Church, La Madrileña Building and the Palm Boulevard entrance in her painting above.) Rachael has the drive and potential to become a great artist and I wish her the best in her all of her endeavors! For any inquires about the artist Rachael Rudnik or about her work, you may contact her via email at Rachael51988@aol.com.

Preservation Brownsville

The organization Preservation Brownsville is looking to recruit more people to join in its efforts to preserve and develop historical buildings in downtown Brownsville. For more information read this post on the blog Brownsville Talk. It is important to preserve our city's heritage by protecting our historical buildings and sites. If we cannot understand and appreciate our city's history and culture, then there is not much hope for the progression of our city's future.

The Art Behind the Man

On Tuesday morning, shocking news was on the front page of the Brownsville Herald about the murder of a Brownsville artist named Alfredo Bustinza. His obituary describes him as a nationally reknowned artist and the article states that he received an MFA in art and exhibited in art galleries from Matamoros to several Texas cities to New York to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American Art in Washington D.C.



My questions were (and of many people who I have conversed with on the topic) were, "Who was this man? Why have I never heard of him?". This is where my mother would inject something like, "Los profetas son desconocidos en su propia tierra ". (Prophets are unknown in their own land.) I wanted to know more about his work and so I googled his name and found a few things such as pictures of three paintings, a short bio and an artist statement. Here are some samples from the page I found the information on. Check the actual webpage out.



Alfredo Bustinza
Bustinza-A
20 x 30
Oils

Here is what he had to say about art:

"The extension of the year 2000, as an artist, would consist not of social reform or cultural influences, but of new technology and new ideas, which will mesh the world together, and in return, enhances new views of exploration. The individual cities and towns will be facing new advanced stages of changes. These changes will continue to mold the underlying value system that is the Americas. In return to the next generations that will precede the millennium, this is what I perceive as an artist."

I think he is stating that future artists now have technology as a force to contend with as a generator of ideas and bridge of communication. His work exemplifies an expressionist style and it evokes the influence of Jackson Pollack's early work (before the drip paintings) and it also reminds me of Basquiat. Bustinza's enthusiasm for Pollack is also evident in his choice to paint a portrait of the artist.


Alfredo Bustinza
Portrait of Jackson Pollack
30 x 30
Oil on canvas

Update:
The Herald ran another piece on Bustinza's life and art. Read it by clicking here.

Carmen Lomas Garza in the RGV

Prickly Pear / A little piece of my heart
1991
Oil and Alkyd on wood
32 x 24 inches
Collection of Carmen Lomas Garza

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Artist Carmen Lomas Garza: Life in South Texas exhibit to be on display at the 3rd Annual South Texas Literary Festival. To get more info visit the International Museum of Art and Science website.

More Brownsville History

I came upon another Brownsville history site created by a team of UTB history students. It's called History of Brownsville and Matamoros and it documents the history of this region into simple categories of interest, such as events, attractions, people, projects, etc. It also has a brief breakdown of important events in Brownsville history. Check the site out.

Update

Hi Folks. Just wanted to let you all know that I deleted my Raspas y Resacas blog so please adjust your links or newsreader channels because the the blog basically no longer exists. Meanwhile, please continue reading the Art of Brownsville and keep an eye out for some changes and additions! Have a great week!

1 Degree from Fame

Right now, the rage in Latino/Hispanic media seems to be Time's magazine pick of the 25 Most Influential Hispanics in America. While many have commented on Time magazine's more mainstream picks on the blogosphere and internet, I was suprised and delighted to see that Time had picked contemporary latin art curator Mari Carmen Ramirez from the Museum of Fine Art of Houston (not New York! not San Francisco! not L.A.!) to be on their list. Then, the name struck a cord. Where do I know this woman from? I know that name on a personal level and not just from the news. Whosh! I am taken taken back to my freshman year of college at UT-Austin where I began my first work-study job at The Blanton Museum of Art. And then I remembered, Mari Carmen Ramirez, curator of Latin American Art (now former curator). I used to see her setting up exhibits and carrying piles of materials, usually with the help of a curator assistant. I remembered I wanted to apply for that assistant job but did not qualify as a lower classman. To me she was just soo cool because had the coolest job and was doing the coolest things. From her exhibits and from the education I obtained from a course in Latin American modern art, I was able to emerse myself in the art of Latin America. My perspective had extended beyond the world of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera and I embraced the South American Avant Garde and Contemporary artists, like Joaquín Torres García, Cildo Meireles, Luis Felipe Noé, Fernando Botero and Liliana Porter. Even today, I can decipher much influence from Latin American artists in my own college work. I am very proud of Time magazine's choice to have Mari Carmen Ramirez on their list. Hardly will you hear of a latina in the visual arts sector get recognized on such a national level (and from Texas no the less!). I doubt she'll read this, but congratulations and I hope that her work will continue to influence more people about art and latin culture everyday!

Active Brownsville Bloggers

I came upon the blog Brownsville Scenes by local blogger Steven Saul King. He also has a site about W.A. Snake King, an interesting figure of Brownsville's rich history. If you ever wondered why King's Highway is "King's Highway" or want to know why the area now known as Palm Village was once known as Snakeville, then give his site a visit.

Also, check out the Herald community commentary on the need for more local sports initiatives made by David Blanco of the Brownsville Blog Momma, I'm Coming Home. To read click here.

Upcoming Brownsville Arts and Humanities Events

Brownsville Museum of Fine Art Board of Directors Meeting Aug. 18

BROWNSVILLE MUSEUM OF FINE ART Board of Directors meets at noon every third Thursday in the museum, 230 Neale Drive. Call (956) 542-0941.

Tile Painting Aug. 20 &21

The City of Brownsville and the Brownsville Urban System (BUS) will host at the Northside Transfer Station a Painting Party from 10am to 7pm Saturday and from noon to 6pm Sunday at Sunrise Mall. The public is invited to paint ceramice tiles which will be installed in the new BUS transfer station. For more information call (956) 548-6000. Read the Herald news story here.

Papermaking Presentation Aug. 28

Papermaking will be the subject of the next Brown Bag Lucnh Series, a free community service by the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, 230 Neale Drive. Artists Olga Villanueva and Natali Treviño will demonstrate papermaking using resources such as thread, old paper leaves and flowers from 11:30am to 12:30pm on Aug. 26. The public is encouraged to bring paper scraps and participate. Dessert and punch will be provided by the museum. To RSVP (required) call (956) 542-0941.

Preserve Your Memories Sept. 24

Preserve Your Memories
Basic Paper Preservation of Paper Materials: A Practical Perspective

a presentation by
George R. Gause, Jr.
Special Collection Librarian
The University of Texas-Pan American

Saturday, September 24, 2005
2:00pm
No charge to attend
at the
Brownsville Historical Association
1325 E. Washington Street
Brownsville, Texas 78520

Duet to limited seating, you must RSVP to be admitted. Thank You. Please call (956) 541-5560.

Garzaderas at McAllen Art Awakenings

By way of RGV artist Rene Garza:

Pieces (Spaintings = Spray paint paintings) of Garzaderas' new production/series Les Nouvelles Recuperees/Recycled News/Noticias Recicladas will be at

Art Awakenings' exhibit
Summer Breeze,
this Thursday August 18 2005.
8pm

This series consists of new stencil images that are sprayed into the "local" paper weekly and then circulated to the public. It may have already hijacked your paper on your front doorstep, in your car, on the toilet, at the breakfast table, etc...
So it's ripped from the newspaper and into the gallery on this one.

Art Awakenings can be contacted at 1.956.668.1366
and they are located at 719 dove McAllen, TX

Bring your 'pasamontaña' or the cooler fresher (it's summer after all) 'paliacate' in solidarity and bring something to spray paint on.


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If you are a local artist or arts and/or humanities related group and would like to promote an event or website, just send me word with the important logistics via email and I would be happy to promote it here. On average, 50 unique vistors come to this site each day so it will be a good way to get exposure.

Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

NMCAC announces the

14th Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

Sept. 16, 17, & 18, 2005

225 E. Stenger Street
San Benito, Texas 78586
(956) 361-0110

Join us for three days of typical south Texas conjunto music, food & beverage, and lots of dancing!

Friday, Sept. 16 7:00 - 11:00 pm - Noche de San Antonio
Dos Generaciones
Bene Medina
Henry Zimmerly

Saturday, Sept. 17 4:00 - 11:00 pm - Gran Baile
Grupo Estrella, Conjunto Heritage Taller
Los Arroyos, Linda Escobar
Mingo Saldivar

Sunday, Sept. 18 7:00 - 11:00 pm - Puro Valle
Martin Zapata, Los Carnales Luna
Gilberto Perez, Los Angeles del Sur
Los Fantasmas del Valle, Benny Layton

$2.00 daily admission - children free

Volunteer opportunities are available - please call NMCAC.

Food/craft vendor booths are available for rental
($160 rental fee for three days)
Please call Yolanda Lopez at (956) 571-3325

2005 Festival Sponsors
Miller Lite
Su Clinica Familiar
San Benito Chamber of Commerce
City of San Benito

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Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center
P.O. Box 471
225 Stenger Street
San Benito, Texas 78586
(956) 361-0110

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Go check the festival out and bring the family! Conjunto is the Valley's original music genre and it needs to be celebrated and shared for the future generations of our region.

SM Unique Webisodes

On Sunday, the Herald gave a report on SM Unique's webisode series "The Bridge", which was described by the Herald as a monthly, Web-based show presented in streaming video, designed to help the local online community navigate the Web with ease.

This project has my interest due to its technological, creative and community appeals. I think it is great that the creators of "The Bridge", Mauricio Peña, Saul Torres and Kevin Diaz (also fellow Brownsville bloggers) have taken an initiative to contribute to the growth of our city's technological infrastructure by wanting to educate people on how to get connected to the World Wide Web. I think it will be especially appealing to people from our community to learn about online technology from local representatives, in other words, from people they can relate to. If we could get more locals online, we can get more communication and information across about Brownsville, and hopefully influencing more interest, activity and positive morale in the community.

All I have to say is that I am happy that SM Unique will be providing this virtual "bridge" for our community to the Web. Best of luck to you guys and just keep it going!

Junior Service League Art Contest

Junior Service League
Children Art Contest

The Brownsville Junior Service Leaque will be hosting an art contest from Aug. 8-28 at The Children's Museum of Brownsville. All chidren from ages 5 through 12 are welcome to participate. For contest rule or for more information please visit the museum or call (956) 548-9300.

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Read about this on The Herald Community Section. I really need to give Kudos on the coverage they have been giving the cultural arts of our city lately. I hope to start commenting on stories I read soon, but for now I am happy to help spread the word.

El Second Weensdee

The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center
presents
"El Second Weensdee"
with
Clemencia Zapata
of Conjunto Aztlan

Wednesday August 10, 2005
7:00 PM

This month's Second Weensdee features a powerful duet of women in the music, art and culture scene.

Clemencia Zapata is a well-known ground breaker in several intersecting worlds, including music, cultural arts and activism. Zapata is one of the few women in the conjunto music scene and the fact that she is a percussionist makes her more unique. Currently she plays drums for Conjunto Aztlan, an Austin and San Antonio based conjunto (www.conjuntoaztlan.com). Versatile and equally at home with the caja, drums, bongos, timbales or congas, Zapata is also an exquisite singer with a rich, full-bodied voice drenched with fire and passion.

Also in this Second Weensdee, award-winning photographer Liza Longoria showcases her work as a photojournalist on the U.S.-Mexico border in her inaugural exhibit. The Rio Grande Valley native considers photography her life and enjoys the challenges of the profession. Despite her petite frame, Longoria captures gigantic and powerful images of border life behind her lens. Longoria has amassed nearly a decade of photo journalistic experience working for The McAllen Monitor, The Saratosa (Fla.) Herald and The Brownsville Herald.

a reception follows the presentation

$3.00 admission

225 E. Stenger Street
San Benito, TX 78586
(956) 361-0110

RGV Music Festival Scene TV Special

SPECIAL SHOWING ON
KMBH TV/60 CABLE/10
at 8:00 PM on Saturday, August 6

The All-U-Can-Eat Texas Music Café
presents the
The Music Festivals Scene of the Rio Grande Valley

To kick-off our Summer Time Fund Raising Campaign, this coming Saturday night KMBH TV/60 Cable/10 will broadcast the All-U-Can-Eat Texas Music Café from 8:00PM to 10:00PM. This award winning radio and television program, featuring Texas music in all its forms, is filmed on location at events throughout the state then broadcast nationwide on dozens of public radio and television stations.

This show reports on the very active music festivals scene in the Rio Grande Valley and will feature highlights of Blues on the Hill and the performance of famous bluesman Rob Roy Parnell that took place on Saturday August 18th, 2004 at McKelvey Park in Harlingen. It also has great interviews with festival organizers from throughout the Rio Grande Valley including the producers of Rio Fest, the Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival, the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center's Conjunto Festival and the South Texas Music Festival, among others. The program was hosted by Chris Ermoian, Executive Producer of the All-U Can-Eat Texas Music Café, Chris Maley, Program Director for Public Radio 88FM, and Guillermo Campos for Sana Life Promotion Company.

DON'T MISS IT! Show-time this Saturday at 8pm-10pm on KMBH TV/60 Cable/10!

Art Blogs

I recently read this Forbes article about Art Blogs via ArtNewsBlog. This is what Forbes had to say about Art Blogs:

"Ever start to read a newspaper or magazine review of a contemporary art show and give up because the writer seems to be speaking in a foreign tongue? The art world sometimes feels like another country with its own language and customs. Blogs can offer a passport. While some mirror the insular and gossipy nature of the art world, there are many that are thoughtful, accessible and dedicated to taking (at least some of) the mystery and intimidation out of the looking experience. You'll find everything from museum news and reviews of up-and-coming artists to art travelogues and gossip on who's who at openings. Perhaps most importantly, blogs revive the fine art of discussing ideas--an antidote to one-sided, jargon-filled critics' pronouncements.-- Liz Tunick"

The sentences I put in bold really caught my attention. As of now, I am formulating a strategic plan to eventually develop the blog into a comprehensive resource site. Ofcourse, with any strategic plan I need to make a mission statement ..and lo and behold, as soon as I read the statement by Liz Tunick, it was right in front of me. In terms of the "art of Brownsville", I would like the site to be thoughful, accessible and dedicated to taking the mystery and intimdation out of the art experience and most importantly to revive the fine art of discussing ideas.

Yet, an endeavor such as creating a comprehensive website is no easy feat. It takes loads of research, planning and personal investment to get it ready for launch. Then there is the management of the site, which is a whole other story! Really, the management of a comprehensive site is very much like the management of a small business but most of the time without any monetary profit, other than the webmaster's own personal value. As of now, I measure this blog by three values: by quality of content, by visitor feedback and by unique visitor statistics. The blog will be turning two years old come November and at its first inception, I never thought it would grow to offer so much potential. I have much more thinking to do about this, but I am glad that I have Step One (mission statement) more or less put down.

Here are some my personal picks from the Forbes list that are good models:

Gallery Hopper
Absolute Arts Blog
Art Addict

Then there are other sites and not just blogs that I am looking at as well:

Art by Latina Artists (my top model right now)
The Harry Potter Lexicon (this comprehensive website with everything Harry is pure eye candy to me!)
The Glass Tire (awesome, just awesome)

I don't know yet, how large the site's scope will be. I don't even know if I will be able to manage such an initiative alone. Various factors will come into play and the largest one will be on what sort of personal investment I would be willing to make. Perhaps, I should just keep the scope of the site to the blog and just work on improving the quality of my content. It may be the only thing I can realistically manage. But for sure, I have moved a step forward towards the development of The Art of Brownsville.

Hecho en Mexico

“Hecho En Mexico”
Museums of Port Isabel’s newest exhibit

The exhibits formal opening is Thursday, July 28 at 6:30 p.m. with a reception and “Telling Our Stories” program.

The Museums of Port Isabel is proud to present its newest exhibit now on display at the Port Isabel Historical Museum at 317 E. Railroad Ave. The exhibit, which consists of artifacts from a private collector, represents folk handcrafts from Mexico including pottery, textiles, silver, glass and other examples.

Hecho en Mexico, or in English “Made in Mexico” is a familiar slogan to shoppers of curios in old Mexico and today implies hand made crafts for sale to tourists. Admission is free so join them in celebrating the color and talents of Mexican Folk Art. For more information contact (956) 943-7602

Texas History Day Opportunity

I received word of a Texas History Day project opportunity for students from an email via the Brownsville Historical Association. Please give this a serious consideration for any students in your life who can shine a light on the history of our region.

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This coming year, National History Day (known as Texas History Day at the state level in Texas) will focus on the theme "Taking a Stand in History." At the state level, we are attempting to encourage middle school and high school students to carry out projects via historical essays, exhibits, performances, documentaries, and interpretative web sites) focusing on some individual, movement, group, etc. in Texas that took a stand on ome significant issue. I would like to include numerous topics that are Tejana/o topics. Please forward any ideas or topic suggestions to me at tacosta@austin.utexas.edu by August 5, 2005. Also, a Mexican American History Award will be awarded in the
junior and senior division historical essay and exhibits categories, beginning in 2006. We hope to find an annual sponsor (s)/an endowment for the award and possibly name the award the Jovita Gonzalez and Carlos P. Castaneda Mexican American History Award. While we prefer that entries for the award be Texas-based, it is not a requirement that they have a focus soley on gente in Texas.

Latina Art Website

Gender and art has played a bigger and more controversial role in art in the past 100 years than in any other time in the history of humanity. While some are very quick to point out feminist issues as a minority issue...what it really is an inequality issue, because women are not a minority...they make up 52% of the population!

Even in our more "progessive" era, when it comes to gender represenation in art, the playing field is still uneven. So why is it still difficult for female artists (latina artists even more so) to get exposure in the art world? It's a reality, and if you don't believe me, I challenge you to name three latina artists from the top of your head right now in ten seconds...and Frida Kahlo and Carmen Lomas Garza don't count...

Stumped?

Don't worry I was stumped for a while as well. If you weren't stumped then I applaud you because most likely you have made an effort to educate yourself. While feminist art has made hurdles in the past 40 years, latina artists in particular still do not have a strong presence in art education..and this is not about wanting more specialized Latina art themed courses in colleges...I am talking about art education in general...in schools and in Introduction to Art college courses. The truth is, art history books are still dominated with western culture male artists. While I have no beef with western culture male artists, my favorite artist is a male Renaissance artist...but there is so much more to experience from art than the creative expressions of a Italian school from the 1500's.

So on this thought, I want to encourage you to visit the following website to educate yourself about various Latina artists (This is site will also rock if you are a Latina artist looking for an outlet to promote your art on):

Art by Latina Artists
Celebrating women and the arts

Art by Latina Artist (ABLA) is a place for all forms of Latina art, from the written word to musical and visual expression. ABLA was born as an initiative of Maria Sanchez, who envisioned a website that would open opportunities for Latinas to showcase their art and connect to others that share the same love for Latina expression. You will find different styles, techniques and sources of inspiration in the art featured in this website. Because the artists you will find in ABLA come from different countries, have different accents, eat different food, were raised with different beliefs and they're spread throughout the world. They are mujeres who share the same passion for their heritage, family, communities and art. Be prepared for all the sabor you will find in ABLA. If you would like more information send an email to abla@artbylatinaartists.com.

McAllen Creative Incubator

Read about this by way of Las Comadres:

McAllen Announces Grand Opening

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce has completed renovations of the McAllen Creative Incubator at the old downtown STC building. With help from the city, the McAllen Chamber has created 12 low cost artist studio and office spaces for expanding artists and art organizations. McAllen plans to house artists and art organizations of different art disciplines. All interested artists had to complete an application and submit it along with a resume and a portfolio featuring samples of their work to the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. A panel of qualified art members decided on the artists that have become the new tenants of McAllen.

"We wanted to provide low cost studios or office spaces for start-up artists and organizations. This is the first time that a program like this has been offered to artists and start-up organizations in the Valley," said Tita Moreno, Cultural Arts Coordinator for the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. "We are also planning on involving the community in many planned activities and marketing the facility in order to give the tenants plenty of exposure through community events and making it a tourist must-see." Tenants of the incubator will be required to attend business management workshops throughout their one-year contract. Some of those workshops include business basics for entrepreneurs, financial reporting, marketing, legal issues such as contracts and copyright laws, and incorporation for individual artists or groups. McAllen will also service the tenants with technical and legal assistance, and provide a venue for their exhibitions, performances, and classes.

The new tenants include Kris Karr a graphic designer and painter, James Rodriguez a furniture designer, Wendy Impola-Lopez with WCI Entertainment and the RGV Center of Fine Arts, Bert Hernandez and Jason Rodriguez with McAllen Children's Theatre, Joe Taylor a drawing specialist, Ivan Ramirez a photographer, Tony Casas a script writer, Guadalupe Ramirez with ARM Productions, David Burbois a film maker, Miriam Alcala a photographer, Sergio Villareal a graphic designer, and Jessica Monroe a painter.

The goal of McAllen Incubator is to support the continued professional growth of artists and enhance the cultural and economic vitality of our local community. The facility will have a grand opening for the community on Wednesday, July 20, 2005. The McAllen Creative Incubator is located at 1001 S. 16th St. Join us for some art, music, and a chance to meet the new tenants of McAllen Creative Incubator. For more information contact the McAllen Chamber of Commerce at 682-2871.

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This is awesome! McAllen has the right idea by investing in the arts and thus in the quality of life of their community. Incubators are examples of methods large cities take to progress their economy and quality of life. These cities, like Austin and Seattle, have the some of the highest per capita income rates in the nation. Read about it here at Richard Florida's Rise of the Creative Class! Brownsville still has a ways go to catch up. That's why this blog exists, to inform people and get them thinking about art and thus demanding more of it from their community. What baffles me though is that Richard Florida placed the Brownsville metro area higher on his creative class index than the McAllen metro area. This interests me because after my short stay in McAllen, I found Hidlago County to be more active in the arts. What does Richard Florida know that we don't and how can we take advantage of that?

Bville Survives Emily

Emily passed us by today with plenty of rain and wind gusts to remember her by. When my family and I took a step outside today, we found our front yard and street covered in debris such as tree limbs, braches, leaves and plenty of palm tree debris. The storm was not so much dangerous as we all prepared for it to be (though there were a fair share of scares like sightings of funnel clouds, a collapsed roof in Bville and uprooted trees...but for the most part Emily felt like a giant and misbehaved toddler who shaked and rattled every tree in Brownsville leaving us with a big mess to clean up. So we got to working, clearing up prickly braches from our ebony tree (ouch!) and dragging tree limbs that snapped off from their respective trees and taking off the wood from the windows of the house. We have yet to tackle our backyard where there was more damage to the trees. Well, I hope everyone else passed the hurricane okay. I hope some of the remains of Emily will reach the US Southwest region and give some relief to their horrendous heatwave! 123 degress in Arizona I saw today! That is insane! In Bville, the heat index here can reach 110 some days but for the most part, I would rather be here where I can escape to SPI than there. The weather seems to be going insane these days. Call it El Nino or Global warming, but this can't be normal.

Still Here

Sorry it's been a while since I have posted. I have so much I want to share but for a while I going to be rather limited on my resources. If you are a Brownsville artist who would like to contribute to this blog then let me know. I would be happy to make you a contributing artist or photographer. Just send an email my way and describe to me your scope and experience.

FYI: As in artist, don't feel that this blog is limited to the visual arts. I would like to encompass all creative arts, from performing to liberal arts...if you are a writer, poet, musician, actor, dancer, etc.. then you can contribue here too!

A Poem to Share

At the request of one of the blog's loyal readers, I would like to share the following poem with you. It was written by Raven Phoenix Spratt of Weslaco, Texas when she was only seven years old! She dedicated the poem to Mr. Rudy Silva Cleckler, who was principal of Heald Elementary Principal in Weslaco. Rudy Silva was a dedicated educator and an inspiration to his students and community. He passed away three years ago on May of 2002 and a scholarship was established in his name at UTPA to honor the greatly loved and missed educator. The Art of Brownsville is happy to share a poem about a person who dedicated his life to the Valley community through education and is also proud to give voice to the creative spirit and heart moving expression of young poet Raven Phoenix Spratt. (Keep up the good work Raven! You carry his legacy through your art and I am sure he is very proud of you!)

******

THE JOURNEY
By
Raven Phoenix Spratt
May 9, 2002
(Seven Years Old)

Call me selfish, ‘cause I love you so.

Call me selfish, ‘cause I can’t let go.

Call me selfish, ‘cause I love you dear.

Call me selfish, ‘cause I want you here.

Your eyes and your smile I see with a wink,

Your voice and your laugh I hear when I think.

If only I had one more day with you,

I’d hug you and show you how much I Love You.

It’s only because your journey is done,

I stop and realize… mine has just begun.

I hurt and I wish that you were around,

Hey wait! But you are!

You are all around!

The children you taught, like friends that you knew.

Are all around learning

All because of you!

I Love you Mr. Silva!

More Brownsville Blogistas!

I was recently made aware of two new Brownsville blogs. (Thanks for letting me know guys!) :)

Check the new blogs out!

Brownsville Talk:A blog by local architecture aficionado Tony Lehmann, Jr. Also give his site Brownsville, Texas Online a visit to view a pictorial history of Brownsville.

SM Unique:A blog by SM Unique Business Solutions of Brownsville.

I'll keep an eye out for more Brownsville Blogistas but if you know of any more Brownsvillle themed blogs let me know. Meanwhile, check out these two blogs by Brownsville natives who are not currently living in Bville but still consider it home.

El Mas Chingon
A blog by editor of the online magazine The Backword who is on his way to becoming the next big Brownsville writer. Watch out Oscar Casares!

Chai Chake
A blog by a Brownsville native and film school graduate who is about to embark on a Fulbight scholarship to South Korea for 13 months! Talk about adventure!

Free Speech Zones and Art

Artists in Residence at the Rio Grande Valley Museum
presents

Free Speech Zones and Art , a presentation and demonstration by René Z. Garza.

This Saturday June 25th, a stencil demonstration from 11am - 1pm.

Exactos will be made available and you can make your own stencil! Spray painting of images will take place outside, in the museum courtyard. Bring your exactos and images if so inclined. Also you can bring any surface to be spray painted on.

Also, This Saturday following the stencil demonstration is a multimedia presentation on Free Speech Zones and Art from 1:30 -3:00.

The presentation consists of Garza's experiments with alternative spaces, Free Speech Zones, guerilla art and in short a public art. His current series Les Nouvelles Recuperees/Recycled News/Noticias Recicladas, which hijacks the newspaper to bring the world not in accordance with CNN will be presented. As well as grounds for public sculpture and art actions.

The Artists in Residence exhibit featuring RGV Artists runs until July 9th 2005.

The Rio Grande Valley Museum is located at 2425 Boxwood at Raintree, on Loop 499
from Valley International Airport and TSTC.
Hours: Tues-Sat 10AM-4PM
Sunday 1-4PM
Monday-Closed
956.430.8500

************

Personal Note: Got word of this event from local RGV artist and activist Rene Garza. Sounds very interesting and if you are not into art, then I would also encourage those who are pollitically active to attend this event to get a perspective as to how art is being used as an agent of social and political change. I also like Rene Garza's art for the performance element he adds to his work, which is a rare find in the Valley. You will find many artists working in a traditional mediums but not many performance artists. In art school I took a few performance art classes and let me tell you, I was horrible at it! haha. And it all varies, some performance art just horrible, HORRIBLE! And then you will see one piece, that just completely moves you and you're intrigued and captivated. Ah...performance art..you either love it or hate it.

Buying Art in Brownsville

Have you ever considered investing in art? How would one go about buying art in Brownsville? Today, while reading Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine, I came upon an interesting article called "Art Smarts" describing how art critic and consultant Alan Bamberger has brought buying art down to a science and treats it like making any other purchase.

My favorite quote:

Author of The Art of Buying Art, Bamberger makes no apologies for treating art like cantaloupe. "Buying art is not that much different from shopping for any other product," he says. "You have to ask the right questions and not be intimidated."

While I don't personally equate art to a cantaloupe, I agree that buying art should be done with making an investment in mind. No one would want to invest in eating bad fruit, would they? When it comes to purchasing art, it's not about picking out the bad apples, rather it's about defining your tastes and resources. It could be that you think a Monet is one heck of a cantaloupe whereas that Donatello just isn't doing it for you.

As a prospective art buyer, the best thing you could do is to look at as much art as possible and learn about the various resources you have available to you. After you have more or less distinguished your preferences, then you need to ask the right questions such as Bamberger advises in his article. And for every type of taste in art there is, there is art to be bought ranging from various sizes to prices. Again, it's a matter of knowing your market and asking the right questions...and most importantly knowing what you want and setting your guidelines. Such as, how much are you willing to spend and what are you interested in...do you want a piece that impacts you on a personal level or do you want a piece to match the curtains in the living room...both valid and fair guidelines.

So what are the resources and options in the Brownsville art market and community? Below I have made a list of different components of the Brownsville art scene and in the upcoming weeks I will write a post on each facet. When it comes to buying art, each facet offers you a different type of opportunity and perspective to welcome into your collection and art experience. Anyone, and yes I mean anyone can become an art collector and below I will give you a few clues and then elaborate on them in the upcoming weeks. Also take a look at the index to the left for website links to the sources I mention below.

Museums and Centers
The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art
Casa de Cultura Carlotta Petrina

Art Festivals and Fairs
The Brownsville Art League/Brownsville Museum of Fine Art often holds art competitions and fairs where local art and crafts can be bought at fairly reasonable prices.

Fine Artists
Brownsville has it's fair share of established artists who are known by name: Don Breeden (known for his watercolors and sketches of Brownsville landmarks and nature), Toni Hudson (whose art base is located at Paseo Plaza), abstract expressionist artist Cande Aquilar and Chicano artists Carlos Gomez, Celina Hinojosa and George Truan. If you want to own a piece of art that will bring your local collection some prestige, or "ooohhs or ahhhs", then give these artists a look and be prepared to spend a pretty penny.

Brownsville Contemporary Art Scene
Brownsville galleries such as Imagenes Art Studio and Tin Soup Gallery will offer you the dynamics of the Brownsville contemporary art scene. You will find an array of artists displayed, from established artists to newer artists who are just beginning to get their name out in the community. The art and prices will vary on the experience and exposure of the artist, but you can count on these galleries to display what is fresh and moving in the Brownsville art scene.

Student Art
Perhaps you are limited financially or more interested in being a patron to a yet to be discovered artist. Then I would give Brownsville's student artists a look. The best places to look:
The University of Texas at Brownsville Richardson Art Gallery (home to UTB art students)
High School Art Classrooms
Next time you are at any of these locations, give the art classroom a swing. There are many young and talented artists who are making spectacular and innovative art and have yet to tap into the art market. As first-time sellers or beginners, they are just getting their feet wet and as an art buyer, you are most likely to come out with a well-made work of art for a very fair if not cheap price.

The Brownsville Culturati
If you are interested in learning about or getting involved with what is going on at the top of the Brownsville fine art scene and advocacy, then you need to get in touch with these folks.
Amigos Artistas
Brownsville Museum of Fine Art
UTB/TSC Patron of the Arts

Treasure Hunting
Antiques, folk art and second-hand keepsakes are a bound in Brownsville...keep a look out for estate sales, garage and yard sales and give our local "pulga" and downtown Brownsville a visit.

Public Establishments
A few restaurants around town allow artists to use their wall as commercial space. I know for sure that Gazpacho's by Sunrise Mall does and perhaps a few of the coffee shops around town, though I am out of touch with who in particular. Just keep a sharp eye, especially at doctor's offices, lawyer's offices and educational facilities, like the schools and the University. The art on their walls may not be on sell what you will get an idea of what other Brownsville art collectors are interested in.

The Internet
You can count on The Art of Brownsville to keep you informed one what's going on with art in Brownsville, but hey there is only so much one person can do and sometimes I miss out on information or events. So if you know of any events or happenings going on, let me know.

~~~~~~~

So in the next few weeks, I will elaborate on the facets I have listed above. On this matter, I will focus soley on Brownsville and then expand to other parts of the Valley and Tamaulipas. Ofcourse I will continue to promote art from this region and would be most happy to post any information sent my way. Again, if you have any information or other resources you would like to share please let me know. Until then, consider investing time and/or money in art. Art is a wonderful investment that will bring color and culture into your life and home. If you have any questions about art feel free to ask and I would be most happy to answer. Have a great day!

More Brownsville Blogs...updated

I've added links to a couple of new blogs about Brownsville to the index below and I suggest you give them a visit. One of my personal faves isBrownsville Eats. Defintely go give that blog a look. Food is always a great topic! Don't you think? Everyone relates to food, especially in Brownsville!

Update:

Also, check out these Brownsville blog newbies who also happen to be family!

Momma, I'm Coming Home - One Person's Return Home --- A story of one man's return to his native land and the "adventures" that are awaiting..."adventures" such as traveling to the ONLY mall in the city looking for a Barnes & Noble with none in sight..."How does he do it?" some might ask...guts, determination and tacos.

A Day In Brownsville - Stay at home mom gives her pespective on parenting and life in Brownsville, Texas.

Objects of Desire

One more thing I got through Las Comadres Listserve:

You are cordially invited to
"Objects of Desire"
July 15 - 17
Presented by
Imagenes Art Studio & Paseo Plaza

Come and enjoy new art by new artists from around the Valley
Reception Friday, July 15th, 7-9 p.m.
Exhibit dates July 15 to July 17th (All Day)

Paseo Plaza Shopping Center
1805 E. Ruben Torres Blvd
Brownsville, TX 78526
956-574-0088

FOR ALL EXHIBIT INFORMATION, TO SIGN UP ONLINE & TO
VIEW PICTURES FROM THE LAST EXHIBIT "For The Love of Art",
PLEASE VISIT: www.representonline.com

La Ley Viene al Valle

Chilean rock band La Ley will be returning to the Rio Grande Valley to give their final concert here as part of their farewell tour on Saturday, June 25th at La Villa Real in McAllen. I love La Ley and have been a steady fan since the release of their album Invisible in 1994. That is 11 years!! I remember that I went to go see them perform at the South Padre Island Convention Center in 1997 or 1998...I am not sure anymore. Anyways, I have seen these guys in concert three times! First time at South Padre, second time at La Feria in Matamoros and the third time at La Villa Real in McAllen. All three shows were so awesome and so dynamic! These guys can put on a show and they know how to get a crowd moving, especially the charismatic lead singer Beto Cuevas whose presense just electrifies the stage! Woo Hoo! I totally recommend that you try to catch this show since it will be their last tour. I am completely bummed that they will no longer be together but I will respect their decision and will go wish them a fond farewell on June 25th. La Ley has always been such a positive band that is involved with their fans and music by sending positive and humanitarian messages through their work. I am going to miss them and I sure thousands through out the world will too.

For info on obtaining tickets to their concert in McAllen click here.

Another Endangered Brownsville Treasure

Today's Brownsville Herald front page news was on the City's recent execution of plans to renovate the famed yet deeply neglected George Kraigher House. The house, built in 1937, was designed by internationally reknowned architect Richard J. Neutra, and its modern style is one of few examples of Neutra's work known outside of California. The house was named to be one of America's 11 most endangered historic places of 2004 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.


Kraigher House in its current state of neglect


Kraigher House at its former glory

Within 30 days, the City of Brownsville should be receiving renovation bids for the house. Currently, the City is not sure what the house should be used for after its renovation, but as the Herald article states, the city plans to use it for the benefit of the community. I think since the house it largely being celebrated for it's modern, International Style architecture, then it's use must remain within that context. With it's clean lines and open spaces, the house would be greatly suited for a contemporary and modern art gallery. An even better idea would be for the Kraigher House to be used as a City architectural center, where Brownsville's architectural sites can be put on photographic display to educate the public and to house a center or group that will dedicate its sevices to the protection and preservation of Brownsville's architectural history.

I also find it refreshing that the city's architectural focus has shifted to this modern styled house. Lovely as it is, I am getting tired of the Spanish mission styled architecture that has been popping up around town. Must everything, even the gasoline station across the street, look like the Alamo? I am not saying that we should go back to drab commercial design...but there are so many more design options to make a city more aesthetically appealing. About 20 different and historical design examples exist in our downtown center alone, so why not take from there as well?

More Brownsville Pics

viadelsol2
Originally uploaded by artofbrownsville.

Here are some more pictures from my May 21st photo scavenger hunt. I will add more with time. Enjoy and thanks to Chris Davis for donating the camera! It has helped achieve the objective of this blog by adding a much needed visual element to the advocacy and documentation of the culture, art and heritage of this region. Thanks once again! I will be sending him more pictures that he will rotate on the banner of his blog Cafe Brownsville, so check it out!