A TAOB Team Member Makes Her Exit

Dear TAOB Readers:

It grieves me to say that this is my last post as an official member of the TAOB team. I am more than sorry to say that I am taking this exit after nearly five years but alas; life is pulling me in a different direction. As passionate as I am about promoting and advocating our local arts and culture, teaching and my students are taking a bigger place in my heart, thus a bigger chunk of my time and energy. I have sincerely tried to manage my time in many different ways to make time for the blog, and for teaching and for the many projects I was trying to juggle; but as I grow life is proving to be more complicated where yes, priorities have to be set and sadly one has to be selective of the various desires of one's heart. I know it sounds incredibly pessimistic; to not pursue all the desires of your heart (at least not at the same time), but it’s also realistic. For the sake of my health and for peace of mind, I am cutting some cords and trying to simplify what I dedicate my time to as well as enjoy more of it with my family, for my art and myself. At this point in my life, I would rather be the best teacher I could be than be a mediocre teacher and a mediocre blogger.

As far as teaching goes, it has been the most challenging but also most educational experience of my life. And I am so happy to say that after my rookie year, I am loving my 2nd year experience. Yes, the same challenges are there, but I have learned to deal with them differently and I am sure there will be more lessons to learn, new challenges to meet. But it's worth it because my students are worth it! Right now, I cannot think of a better feeling than when you open students' minds to new ideas and concepts and when you see them apply it and take it to heart. It is an impression they will take with them for the rest of their lives and God knowing, so many young people need more positive impressions in their lives, to help them make better decisions.

So with all this in mind and close to heart, I write this exit. This blog has become more than I could have ever imagined when it was first born out of an idea for a computer class assignment from my small apartment in Austin, Texas. I have been able to connect with many great individuals who have passion for art and culture and especially for the Brownsville/RGV/Mexico frontera. I have been able to meet and make friends with people from our local communities as well across the nation and across the world. I have seen many good things evolve out of these connections such as collaborations, activities and the sharing and exchange of thoughts and ideas. And I am especially glad to say that the blog will continue to play witness to this. Even though I take my exit, The Art of Brownsville will continue under the direction of local artist Gabriel Treviño. I want to thank Gabriel for his contributions to the blog and it brings me much joy and relief to know that the mission of the blog will continue.

Keep an eye out for more posts about next week's "Art in the Park" by local organization Amigos Artistas on Sunday, September 7th at Ringgold Pavilion as Dean Porter Park. Also look forward to coverage of the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art's Joaquin Quintana Garcia exhibition and the BISD Faculty Art Show, also to be at the BMFA. And for sure, mark your calendars to celebrate The Art of Brownsville's 5th Anniversary at Gallery 409 on Saturday, November 29th!

So there is still much more to expect from The Art of Brownsville and I look forward to seeing its development and evolution. I encourage all those who may be interested in contributing by becoming an established member of the TAOB team and helping run “the behind the scenes” of the blog, or would just like to contribute articles from time to time, to contact Gabriel Treviño at brownsvilleartform@yahoo.com.

Thanks again for everything readers and for visiting this site these almost past five years and for coming back time again. As I close this chapter in my life, The Art of Brownsville is just in the beginning of its own journey! QUE VIVA EL ARTE! QUE VIVA TAOB!

With love and appreciation,

Mayra Cruz