Thursday, February 26, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
ALBERTINA - AMBOS LADOS DEL RIO
"AMBOS LADOS DEL RIO" ART EXHIBITION OPENS TODAY 2/24 IN GALERIA ALBERTINA IN MATAMOROS...
Sunday, February 22, 2009
TAOB Interview with Gabriel Trevino
Through a recent conversation with Cande Aguilar I realized that I hadn't answered my own questions..so I thought why not give it a shot.
Many thanks to all the painters and advocates that have contributed there valuable responses to The Art of Brownsville. Thanks to all the readers and supporters of the arts... Send in your Charro Day pictures jpeg so we can post here on TAOB.. brownsvilleartform@yahoo.com
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
TREVINO: I was born in Brownsville, and raised as a child in both Brownsville and Matamoros. My memories as a child always start crossing the bridge, watching the indigenous and crippled beggars knocking at the car windows at the bridge, paleteros and their carts, riding in las peseras driving down Sexta with my brothers and my mom on our way to visit famalia, watching my mom make flour tortillas for some frijoles refritos tacos, the roar of the crowed when Mr. Amigo passed during the Charro Day parade, buying chips with food-stamps, walking in downtown Brownsville where my mother sold shoes at a store called San Shu and the 50 off store, the drug scene that plagued my old neighborhood by the Cameron County Courthouse, playing football at the Boys Club, getting snacks at the Goodneighbor, watching my two oldest brothers fight about nothing, sleeping on the floor, and walking the railroad tracks and the allies by the Edlestein Park waiting for my dad to come home from work.
TAOB: Describe your art?
TREVINO: My art is always evolving, from abstract to surrealist, I couldn't say I am a cubist painter or a neo-expressionist, once I thought my art reflected a post Chicano style, my most recent work is more of a graphic artist, in simple my work contributes to the evolution of art, so maybe I am an evolutionist, but I couldn't say what tomorrow may bring until I paint it….
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose?
TREVINO: Art has been important to the history of man kind, if not the foundation of his principles, in our society “Brownsville” it helps define our culture of who we are, what we think about and how we value our own understanding of life.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from?
TREVINO: In my opinion success comes from “GANAS!!!” las ganas to stand up and fight for what you believe in. If you have no “ganas” life will pass you by and people will walk right over you..Ganas in a sense defies the struggles of being poor, overcoming fears, never saying no I can’t. In art, with ganas there is no limit of what you can accomplish.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
TREVINO: Getting the “ganas” and making money.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
TREVINO: I have learn to appreciate all sorts of music but my all time favorite would be Bad Religion. I would say I am honest and noble at least that’s how my moms sees it.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of?
TREVINO: Believe it or not I fear criticism of my work, people can be pretty cruel. I am not talking about true art critics with actual background, but criticism by the ignorants.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
TREVINO: Primarily I think we have to improve the quality of our schools, I think education is key to a better community. I also think there should more transparency in the day to day business conducted by the mayors and commissioners, BISD board of directors, PUB, UTB, Port of Brownsville, an online site to account for every tax payer dollar that they spend and more importantly who owns the business they hire. Better roads and drainage systems are needed, god forbid a flood disaster. I think our hospitals need to improve the quality of service and emergency response. Diabetic Education and Assistance programs that reach throughout every corner of our community is greatly needed. Zero tolerance for those who abuse, abandon animals and perhaps stricter laws on more aggressive dogs. The animal shelter is over capacity and in general around town stray dogs and cats plague the city becoming roadkill. Bring back the Just Say No to Drugs campaign.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
TREVINO: Yes, I look at the The Art of Brownsville blog and I see positive things, positive responses, great work that not only reflects our culture, but contributes to the evolution of art. But does beneficial meaning every artist making money off the art they produce? The idea of art throughout our city in parks, in peoples homes, in Internet websites, in our museums, in our historic buildings, in our restaurant's in our tourist districts so that outsiders can say “this city is rich in life”…at the same time question… would too much art may make it unimportant?
I would like to see some public jobs go to other artist and not Don Breeden. I also don’t like the idea that a painter is always asked to donate his or her talent for public benefits.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
TREVINO: My day job.
Many thanks of your time and responses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
TREVINO: I was born in Brownsville, and raised as a child in both Brownsville and Matamoros. My memories as a child always start crossing the bridge, watching the indigenous and crippled beggars knocking at the car windows at the bridge, paleteros and their carts, riding in las peseras driving down Sexta with my brothers and my mom on our way to visit famalia, watching my mom make flour tortillas for some frijoles refritos tacos, the roar of the crowed when Mr. Amigo passed during the Charro Day parade, buying chips with food-stamps, walking in downtown Brownsville where my mother sold shoes at a store called San Shu and the 50 off store, the drug scene that plagued my old neighborhood by the Cameron County Courthouse, playing football at the Boys Club, getting snacks at the Goodneighbor, watching my two oldest brothers fight about nothing, sleeping on the floor, and walking the railroad tracks and the allies by the Edlestein Park waiting for my dad to come home from work.
TAOB: Describe your art?
TREVINO: My art is always evolving, from abstract to surrealist, I couldn't say I am a cubist painter or a neo-expressionist, once I thought my art reflected a post Chicano style, my most recent work is more of a graphic artist, in simple my work contributes to the evolution of art, so maybe I am an evolutionist, but I couldn't say what tomorrow may bring until I paint it….
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose?
TREVINO: Art has been important to the history of man kind, if not the foundation of his principles, in our society “Brownsville” it helps define our culture of who we are, what we think about and how we value our own understanding of life.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from?
TREVINO: In my opinion success comes from “GANAS!!!” las ganas to stand up and fight for what you believe in. If you have no “ganas” life will pass you by and people will walk right over you..Ganas in a sense defies the struggles of being poor, overcoming fears, never saying no I can’t. In art, with ganas there is no limit of what you can accomplish.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
TREVINO: Getting the “ganas” and making money.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
TREVINO: I have learn to appreciate all sorts of music but my all time favorite would be Bad Religion. I would say I am honest and noble at least that’s how my moms sees it.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of?
TREVINO: Believe it or not I fear criticism of my work, people can be pretty cruel. I am not talking about true art critics with actual background, but criticism by the ignorants.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
TREVINO: Primarily I think we have to improve the quality of our schools, I think education is key to a better community. I also think there should more transparency in the day to day business conducted by the mayors and commissioners, BISD board of directors, PUB, UTB, Port of Brownsville, an online site to account for every tax payer dollar that they spend and more importantly who owns the business they hire. Better roads and drainage systems are needed, god forbid a flood disaster. I think our hospitals need to improve the quality of service and emergency response. Diabetic Education and Assistance programs that reach throughout every corner of our community is greatly needed. Zero tolerance for those who abuse, abandon animals and perhaps stricter laws on more aggressive dogs. The animal shelter is over capacity and in general around town stray dogs and cats plague the city becoming roadkill. Bring back the Just Say No to Drugs campaign.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
TREVINO: Yes, I look at the The Art of Brownsville blog and I see positive things, positive responses, great work that not only reflects our culture, but contributes to the evolution of art. But does beneficial meaning every artist making money off the art they produce? The idea of art throughout our city in parks, in peoples homes, in Internet websites, in our museums, in our historic buildings, in our restaurant's in our tourist districts so that outsiders can say “this city is rich in life”…at the same time question… would too much art may make it unimportant?
I would like to see some public jobs go to other artist and not Don Breeden. I also don’t like the idea that a painter is always asked to donate his or her talent for public benefits.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
TREVINO: My day job.
Many thanks of your time and responses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
Thursday, February 19, 2009
TAOB Interview with Marsha Betancourt
Marsha Betancourt Supervisor of Visual ArtsB.I.S.D. Fine Arts Dept.708 Palm Blvd. Brownsville, Texas 78520(956)982-3730/Fax:574-8050mlbetancourt@bisd.us
TAOB: Introduce yourself tell us a little about your professional life?
Marsha: I have lived here all my life got my degrees from Texas A&I,Kingsville I have both a BS and MS in education, supervision and administrationcertification. I have been a BISD art teacher, administrator, and UTB adjunctart professor for 37 years. Presently Visual Arts Supervisor, supervising 55 artBISD art teachers.
TAOB: Where were you raised and what do you most remember about yourchildhood?
Marsha: Born and raised in Brownsville life was simple, safe and I rememberenjoyable walks to the movies, to downtown Brownsville and family outing andcelebrations.
TAOB: Why is art important to you?
Marsha: Art is important because it is a form of expressive communication.
TAOB: Can you tell us which was one of the first paintings you first gaveinterest to and why? Marsha: Monet, Georgia O'Keeffe I love pastel colors,smooth textures, andpeaceful and serine settings.
TAOB: Generally speaking as far as what you have seen how would you describelocal art, is there a notable movement?
Marsha: Local art is growing I believe we are finally going in a positivedirection. I am presently involved with various art organizations, and sit onmany boards, chair art education committees. This I believe displays my passionfor arts in my community.
TAOB: Have you ever purchased a painting, do you have a collection of art thatyou can talk about?
Marsha: I have purchased women's, Mexican, local and student art, I collectceramics, sculptures and Mexican religious folk art.
TAOB: As an artist and or as a person can you briefly describe both the brightside and the dark side of living on the border?
Marsha: I believe it's all bright living here or any where is what YOU makeit.
TAOB: What type of music do you like and what type of character would you saybest describes you?
Marsha: The music I like is any thing relaxing, soft and happy.
TAOB: What is one of your goals for 2009?
Marsha:Continue with my life long journey to enhance and enrich all the ARTS in ourgrowing community. My commitment to serving my community and seeing positiveresults is excellence!
Marsha many thanks for your support we hope to here from you soon...
TAOB: Introduce yourself tell us a little about your professional life?
Marsha: I have lived here all my life got my degrees from Texas A&I,Kingsville I have both a BS and MS in education, supervision and administrationcertification. I have been a BISD art teacher, administrator, and UTB adjunctart professor for 37 years. Presently Visual Arts Supervisor, supervising 55 artBISD art teachers.
TAOB: Where were you raised and what do you most remember about yourchildhood?
Marsha: Born and raised in Brownsville life was simple, safe and I rememberenjoyable walks to the movies, to downtown Brownsville and family outing andcelebrations.
TAOB: Why is art important to you?
Marsha: Art is important because it is a form of expressive communication.
TAOB: Can you tell us which was one of the first paintings you first gaveinterest to and why? Marsha: Monet, Georgia O'Keeffe I love pastel colors,smooth textures, andpeaceful and serine settings.
TAOB: Generally speaking as far as what you have seen how would you describelocal art, is there a notable movement?
Marsha: Local art is growing I believe we are finally going in a positivedirection. I am presently involved with various art organizations, and sit onmany boards, chair art education committees. This I believe displays my passionfor arts in my community.
TAOB: Have you ever purchased a painting, do you have a collection of art thatyou can talk about?
Marsha: I have purchased women's, Mexican, local and student art, I collectceramics, sculptures and Mexican religious folk art.
TAOB: As an artist and or as a person can you briefly describe both the brightside and the dark side of living on the border?
Marsha: I believe it's all bright living here or any where is what YOU makeit.
TAOB: What type of music do you like and what type of character would you saybest describes you?
Marsha: The music I like is any thing relaxing, soft and happy.
TAOB: What is one of your goals for 2009?
Marsha:Continue with my life long journey to enhance and enrich all the ARTS in ourgrowing community. My commitment to serving my community and seeing positiveresults is excellence!
Marsha many thanks for your support we hope to here from you soon...
TAOB Interview with Oscar Alvarez
You can get in contact with Oscar Alvarez via email:
http://us.mc355.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=bluemortuarygirrafe@yahoo.com & website http://www.oscaralvarezart.com/
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
OSCAR: Brownsville, Texas I remember most...... thinking that I was born to the wrong family and the afterlife.
TAOB:Describe your art ?
OSCAR: I am still trying to figure out what my art is I can't seem to pin point it and at times I don't want to pin point it. It's just an energy that passes through every human being; Tiger Woods plays golf .......
Pavarotti sang
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
OSCAR: At times I feel that art is not importatnt. I usually feel sick when I look at it to much. I enjoy making it rather than seeing it.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
OSCAR: UNANSWERED
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
OSCAR: UNANSWERED
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
OSCAR: Sometimes I feel like a butterfly at times I feel like a beast.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
OSCAR: Loosing my eyesight and more important not being connected with my creator.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
OSCAR: Politics & Religion have no end.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
OSCAR: Sometimes yes, but...I get confused when I start talking to other artist and their views becasuse sometimes I can't even understand my own view.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
OSCAR: Increasing oxygen to the brain.
Many thanks of your time and reponses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
TAOB Interview with Antonio Antinori
Contact:Antonio Antinori - aaantinori@yahoo.com
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?ANTINORI: I was born in the state of Puebla, Mexico. I remember the joyful and careless moments with all of my childhood friends.
TAOB:Describe your art ?
TAOB:Describe your art ?
ANTINORI: My artwork can be described as Contemporary, Futurist, and Post- Modern
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
ANTINORI: I am a true believer that art is the most important thing in life, after our own's health and family. I hope my artwork can touch everybody not just visually, but also emotionally. Most of my art contains a bit of the dramatic composition which heightens the impact of the painting. As as painter,I supply the mood, and the viewer is invited to provide the subtext. I think what ultimately makes a successful painting is the painter's ability to impart something of himself or herself to the artwork and to convey something to the viewer.
TAOB:When was your first exhibit in Brownsville and how has the local art scene change to present day ?
ANTINORI: It goes way back to 1984 or1985 at the Richardson Art Gallery in T. S. C. / U.T.-B.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
ANTINORI: I believe success comes when, as a plastic artist/painter You can say with confidence that you have achieve your own life's dream. To me is to become famous in the near future.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
ANTINORI: The politics of trying to show artwork at the limited art venues. Most of us painters, have a big alter ego and it goes to our heads.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
ANTINORI: Before joining the Air Force, I mostly listened to spanish - speaking music, but nowadays, all kinds of music.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
ANTINORI: To become an apatethic or a conformist.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
ANTINORI: Living in the border and being geographically isolated from both main societies or cultures, it is frustating in getting thingsin perspective; our new generations are even more confused in dealing with the economic - social status, race /caste/ ethnicity issues, but I believe that many feel powerless or conquered and rather look the other way, the easy way. Unless We all talk openly and freely about all this, our locally elected oficials will only serve those in power.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
ANTINORI: Yes,it should be beneficial if all of us (painters, artists, art galleries, museum director, curators, and patrons) work as a team and get feedback from the community.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
ANTINORI: At this moment, the state of the world economy and waiting for the big day on Dec, 21,2012. Thanks to Gabriel Trevino and the time He takes in caring not only for the arts, but also for the entire border communities.
Many Antinori for your time and reponses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
The Art of Brownsville "El Chile Toreado"
Great news now posting from mi casa..currently working on HTML...
TAOB to serve you better...mas chile, mas arte!!
Author: Gabriel Trevino
email: brownsvilleartform@yahoo.com
TAOB Interview with Mauricio Saenz
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
Mauricio: I am proud to say I was born in Matamoros even though I have to admit this has turned a little bit contradictory since living in the area can be extremely asphixiating due to the limited opportunities for a visual artist and the lack of support and vision for the arts. I'd have to say that what I remember the most about my childhood was being the new kid in school and having to make new friends since my family had to constantly move cities ranging from Matamoros to Cuautla, back to Matamoros, then to Guadalajara (unforgettable experience), back to Matamoros, then back to Guadalajara, then to Saltillo, back to Matamoros, then finally to Brownsville (culture schock at first, then big surprise when I realized it was the same city just divided by a river). Being the new kid at school was tough, I think that's what shaped me as the shy, introvert kid I was, with many fears. I miss never having the childhood I always desired since I always lost good friendships and had to look for new ones. I remember how tough was moving from one city to the other even though I learned life was always full of new beginnings and still realizing a new day is sometimes a new beginning. I have been a traveler since I was a little kid and think I'll keep being one for the rest of my life, now turning this from a negative to a rewarding, positive aspect in my life.
TAOB:Describe your art ?
Mauricio: What I do is always perceived in my mind as an idea that is constantly banging my head and is anxious to being transformed into something tangible. My work is just a consequence of something that I want to scream out and is more succesfully delivered if I conceive it visually and not verbally, since I've never been a man of too many words. I feel magnetically drawn to human behavior and how stupid we act sometimes making of our rationality something we hardly use. That's what I intend transmitting through my work: a reflection of today's society and how we are considered to be "rational" and "superior" beings yet we are vulnerable, thoughtless pigs sometimes. In these artworks I portray myself and everyone else. It is an irreverent social commentary with a surrealist touch.
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
Mauricio: Art is extremely relevant if it seen as way to deliver an idea that can have a positive effect on who's viewing it. I believe art is an alternative language, and as a means of communication its purpose is always going to be to tell and inform people. Throughout history art has served the important objective of recording human presence and their acts more succesfully even than probably writing itself since human beings have proven to learn faster and be more attracted to visuals than words. I feel the power of art has always been underestimated and it has lately been used in more superficial ways and its true meaning has been distorted. Art is stimulating and thought-provoking; for this reason I believe the importance of art is high in times where we make use of everything but our minds.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
Mauricio: Success first comes when you find pleasure on what you're doing; when you strongly believe it will be meaningful not only to you but to someone else, and will thus create an impact on the viewers. It then comes when feel your work is appreciated and the effort, thought, and time you have put into it finds rewards on people giving you feedback and aligning their thoughts with yours as an artist. With this a bridge to dialogue will open and then this will finally accomplish the goal of employing art as a means of communication. With all these already achieved, an artist will see his effort and message reflected in shows outside his city as a consequence of firmly believing in his work and its quality; but no more than on the impact it can cause.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
Mauricio: Finding inspiration and motivation to keep on working on a profession that can be extremely rewarding yet having its ups and downs at times. Inspiration is not something you wake up with but when it's there it can be a powerful driving force that leads to mental expansion and brings meaning to your life. Another struggle than artist faces, for example in my case as an emerging one is to find dissapointment in so many doors closing in front you, talking about curators and galleries not even considering your work, when you feel your work is worth the exposure in front of varied audiences, but lacks the preference of the previously mentioned.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
Mauricio: I am an extremely sensitive and vulnerable person. I am also a person that is commited, passionate, and fully immersed in his profession as an artist; yet I have to admit I am one who finds delight in loneliness, keep to myself, and don't like talking if there's nothing relevant to be said. I believe the power to speak is a privilige we don't make good use of. However, I can be easy-going, laid back, and enjoy having conversations with people I can learn something from but can be easily upset when I find something unfair. My mind does not function normally sometimes and find myself doing a lot of things that I usually regret, though I always find a lesson to learn from these abnormalities in my life. I tend to always follow my own instinct and not the one perceived to be normal for a person my age and condition. I can be a bizarre man sometimes, really bizarre despite the concept people have about me. I don't think telling what my favorite type of music is relevant to I what I just said but I love listening to music that can mentally transport me out of the place I find myself physically in.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
Mauricio: I'm afraid of at some point of my life not reaching the goals I've set for my short and long-term future. Also, losing the desire and pleasure I find in doing what I do.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
Mauricio: I think the abuse of power of some of our leaders, either presidents, governors, mayors, or any kind of leader, is something that can potentially harm us and think is one the biggest examples of injustice we face today. I'm specifically worried about how the drug lords and industry is taking over a country like Mexico and how this is worsening the corruption that has always existed there.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
Mauricio: I think this will always be beneficial since it ill create a bigger artistic movement and will open more and bigger doors. I have always believed in how something will work better if it's done as a team effort and not individually. However, I also feel not all people are interested in doing something like this since every individual has his own interests and will always try to benefit himself before others. I also think people can be really apathetic in trying to help others succeed and only helping a few ones.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
Mauricio: Life and anything that can bring pleasure and satisfaction to it. Finding that your life has a meaning and becoming that person you desire to be. It is also important to find beauty in everything you do and realizing that life is a gift that was granted to you and that you're giving something back in the way you act and treat other people, and what you're leaving behind will only try to make this world a little bit better. Knowing that you lived life to its fullest and that you took advantage of everything around you to have made of this experience in earth the best it could have been. Thanking God for all this.
Many thanks of your time and reponses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
Mauricio: I am proud to say I was born in Matamoros even though I have to admit this has turned a little bit contradictory since living in the area can be extremely asphixiating due to the limited opportunities for a visual artist and the lack of support and vision for the arts. I'd have to say that what I remember the most about my childhood was being the new kid in school and having to make new friends since my family had to constantly move cities ranging from Matamoros to Cuautla, back to Matamoros, then to Guadalajara (unforgettable experience), back to Matamoros, then back to Guadalajara, then to Saltillo, back to Matamoros, then finally to Brownsville (culture schock at first, then big surprise when I realized it was the same city just divided by a river). Being the new kid at school was tough, I think that's what shaped me as the shy, introvert kid I was, with many fears. I miss never having the childhood I always desired since I always lost good friendships and had to look for new ones. I remember how tough was moving from one city to the other even though I learned life was always full of new beginnings and still realizing a new day is sometimes a new beginning. I have been a traveler since I was a little kid and think I'll keep being one for the rest of my life, now turning this from a negative to a rewarding, positive aspect in my life.
TAOB:Describe your art ?
Mauricio: What I do is always perceived in my mind as an idea that is constantly banging my head and is anxious to being transformed into something tangible. My work is just a consequence of something that I want to scream out and is more succesfully delivered if I conceive it visually and not verbally, since I've never been a man of too many words. I feel magnetically drawn to human behavior and how stupid we act sometimes making of our rationality something we hardly use. That's what I intend transmitting through my work: a reflection of today's society and how we are considered to be "rational" and "superior" beings yet we are vulnerable, thoughtless pigs sometimes. In these artworks I portray myself and everyone else. It is an irreverent social commentary with a surrealist touch.
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
Mauricio: Art is extremely relevant if it seen as way to deliver an idea that can have a positive effect on who's viewing it. I believe art is an alternative language, and as a means of communication its purpose is always going to be to tell and inform people. Throughout history art has served the important objective of recording human presence and their acts more succesfully even than probably writing itself since human beings have proven to learn faster and be more attracted to visuals than words. I feel the power of art has always been underestimated and it has lately been used in more superficial ways and its true meaning has been distorted. Art is stimulating and thought-provoking; for this reason I believe the importance of art is high in times where we make use of everything but our minds.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
Mauricio: Success first comes when you find pleasure on what you're doing; when you strongly believe it will be meaningful not only to you but to someone else, and will thus create an impact on the viewers. It then comes when feel your work is appreciated and the effort, thought, and time you have put into it finds rewards on people giving you feedback and aligning their thoughts with yours as an artist. With this a bridge to dialogue will open and then this will finally accomplish the goal of employing art as a means of communication. With all these already achieved, an artist will see his effort and message reflected in shows outside his city as a consequence of firmly believing in his work and its quality; but no more than on the impact it can cause.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
Mauricio: Finding inspiration and motivation to keep on working on a profession that can be extremely rewarding yet having its ups and downs at times. Inspiration is not something you wake up with but when it's there it can be a powerful driving force that leads to mental expansion and brings meaning to your life. Another struggle than artist faces, for example in my case as an emerging one is to find dissapointment in so many doors closing in front you, talking about curators and galleries not even considering your work, when you feel your work is worth the exposure in front of varied audiences, but lacks the preference of the previously mentioned.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
Mauricio: I am an extremely sensitive and vulnerable person. I am also a person that is commited, passionate, and fully immersed in his profession as an artist; yet I have to admit I am one who finds delight in loneliness, keep to myself, and don't like talking if there's nothing relevant to be said. I believe the power to speak is a privilige we don't make good use of. However, I can be easy-going, laid back, and enjoy having conversations with people I can learn something from but can be easily upset when I find something unfair. My mind does not function normally sometimes and find myself doing a lot of things that I usually regret, though I always find a lesson to learn from these abnormalities in my life. I tend to always follow my own instinct and not the one perceived to be normal for a person my age and condition. I can be a bizarre man sometimes, really bizarre despite the concept people have about me. I don't think telling what my favorite type of music is relevant to I what I just said but I love listening to music that can mentally transport me out of the place I find myself physically in.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
Mauricio: I'm afraid of at some point of my life not reaching the goals I've set for my short and long-term future. Also, losing the desire and pleasure I find in doing what I do.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
Mauricio: I think the abuse of power of some of our leaders, either presidents, governors, mayors, or any kind of leader, is something that can potentially harm us and think is one the biggest examples of injustice we face today. I'm specifically worried about how the drug lords and industry is taking over a country like Mexico and how this is worsening the corruption that has always existed there.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
Mauricio: I think this will always be beneficial since it ill create a bigger artistic movement and will open more and bigger doors. I have always believed in how something will work better if it's done as a team effort and not individually. However, I also feel not all people are interested in doing something like this since every individual has his own interests and will always try to benefit himself before others. I also think people can be really apathetic in trying to help others succeed and only helping a few ones.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
Mauricio: Life and anything that can bring pleasure and satisfaction to it. Finding that your life has a meaning and becoming that person you desire to be. It is also important to find beauty in everything you do and realizing that life is a gift that was granted to you and that you're giving something back in the way you act and treat other people, and what you're leaving behind will only try to make this world a little bit better. Knowing that you lived life to its fullest and that you took advantage of everything around you to have made of this experience in earth the best it could have been. Thanking God for all this.
Many thanks of your time and reponses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
Friday, February 13, 2009
TAOB Interviews Marilyn Brown
MARILYN BROWN
website is: http://marilynbrown.com and http://artwanted/marilynsart.com
email: mjb62235@yahoo.com
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
Marilyn:
I was born in Milwaukee, WI but spent my entire childhood in Des Moines, IA. Summers were spent with aunt and uncles on the farms in mid state IA with many cousins my age. Since I was an only child this was a very pleasant time growing up. One of my aunts sparked my love for reading being an avid reader herself.
I had an older girlfriend who was very good at drawing and I loved to be with her and have her teach me drawing skills. I loved it so much that at the age of four, I drew with crayons on my bedroom walls. My parents didn't think I was much of a muralist and re papered the room.
I wrote my high school career paper on being an artist but was discouraged by my parents from that career. I was advised to do something practical, like studying to be a nurse, teacher or secretary. I went into nursing and became a RN. This was when nurses still wore white uniforms, shoes and caps and you could tell a nurse from a cleaning lady working in the hospital.
TAOB:Describe your art ?
Marilyn:
I have not had academic art training. I was only able to dive in headfirst into art when I retired at the age of 50 to raise a grandson. Then I became addicted and attended any class and workshop that I could find in the area. Myself and three friends started an Art Club where we could paint every week and hired a professional artist as our instructor.
I would now describe my art as being experimental and creative with a love for color and texture evident in most of my work. I enjoy the process of creating rather than worry about the product. My art is a playful experience rather than laboring to capture the exact predetermined subject. I want to let loose and let go and have my intuition lead my through the stages of creating a painting. I don't fear failures as they are learning experiences and some of my "failures" end up as successful paintings after being reworked or collaged.
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
Marilyn:
I feel that the art is the essential door to ones imagination. Art is a process of looking into oneself, art is an expression of the soul and not following the straight path of rules put upon you by others. It is your creation alone. I create because I was created. My art gives me freedom to be my own person. Art reflects the total of our society, the past, present and future.
TAOB:When was your first exhibit in Brownsville and how has the local art scene change to present day ?
Marilyn:
I think the first time I exhibited my work in Brownsville was in 1990 or 1991 at the Brownsville International Art Exhibit and I was pleasantly surprised to be awarded ribbons. I have exhibited there yearly every since then. I also have exhibited at the Harlingen Art Forum, Purple Parrot at Port Isabel, and at the South Padre Convention Center locally. I also had my works featured at the Albertine Art Museum in Metamora, Mexico.
Today there appears to be much more publicity and emphasis on the local artists. I am very pleased that he BV Herald has been doing regular feature articles on local artists. This was a rarity 10 years ago.
Our new Brownsville Museum of Fine Art is exposing the community to artwork they would not have the opportunity to see without traveling to Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Houston or Dallas. I am somewhat disappointed that more of our local artists have not become affiliated and actively involved with the new BMFA. It is no longer the group of little old ladies painting together but has expanded into a cultural jewel for Brownsville. BMFA has featured numerous local artists since opening the new facility three years ago.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
Marilyn:
Each person has a different definition of success. I feel success each time I feel a work of mine is worth framing. Others might only feel success if someone else admires or buys their work. I don't want to paint to please others, if others enjoy and like my work that is a bonus.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
Marilyn:
Disciplining oneself to make the time to create, setting aside time to be in the studio without interruptions. Many artists struggle with being "accepted" by their peers and the public but fortunately I don't feel this way, probably this is because as a retired person I don't have to make a living with my art. I can just hope to sell enough to replenish my art supplies, go to workshops and buy more art from others I admire.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
Marilyn:
I am not like any other "character", I am me. I like "oldies" from the 60-80's, soft rock, and classical music.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
Marilyn:
I am FEARLESS, I love to play with my art, it is never too late to have a happy childhood, to toss and splatter paint.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
Marilyn:
Immigration reform, we need to implement a new alien workers program.
The Border Fence: totally a farce in this area of Mexican and American neighbors.
Need to legalize drugs so the cartels and smugglers will be out of business as were the bootleggers when prohibition was lifted.
The economy: Not sure the stimulation plan will do much good. Limits should be set on all CEO's pay and bonus pay that are being provided money from the taxpayers. Our representatives in government should not receive raises in pay or perks during this serious recession.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
Marilyn:
We need more interaction between artists and artist groups in BV and less competition. A city wide Art Council to coordinate community art events would be great. We need spokesmen for the arts in our city government, doers not just talkers. We need local government support for art to grow in our area. If a River-walk ever comes to being, artists should be a part of the planning stage.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
Marilyn:
Peace among nations, tolerance of individual's ethnics, race and religion.
Alleviating famine worldwide
"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you"
website is: http://marilynbrown.com and http://artwanted/marilynsart.com
email: mjb62235@yahoo.com
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
Marilyn:
I was born in Milwaukee, WI but spent my entire childhood in Des Moines, IA. Summers were spent with aunt and uncles on the farms in mid state IA with many cousins my age. Since I was an only child this was a very pleasant time growing up. One of my aunts sparked my love for reading being an avid reader herself.
I had an older girlfriend who was very good at drawing and I loved to be with her and have her teach me drawing skills. I loved it so much that at the age of four, I drew with crayons on my bedroom walls. My parents didn't think I was much of a muralist and re papered the room.
I wrote my high school career paper on being an artist but was discouraged by my parents from that career. I was advised to do something practical, like studying to be a nurse, teacher or secretary. I went into nursing and became a RN. This was when nurses still wore white uniforms, shoes and caps and you could tell a nurse from a cleaning lady working in the hospital.
TAOB:Describe your art ?
Marilyn:
I have not had academic art training. I was only able to dive in headfirst into art when I retired at the age of 50 to raise a grandson. Then I became addicted and attended any class and workshop that I could find in the area. Myself and three friends started an Art Club where we could paint every week and hired a professional artist as our instructor.
I would now describe my art as being experimental and creative with a love for color and texture evident in most of my work. I enjoy the process of creating rather than worry about the product. My art is a playful experience rather than laboring to capture the exact predetermined subject. I want to let loose and let go and have my intuition lead my through the stages of creating a painting. I don't fear failures as they are learning experiences and some of my "failures" end up as successful paintings after being reworked or collaged.
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
Marilyn:
I feel that the art is the essential door to ones imagination. Art is a process of looking into oneself, art is an expression of the soul and not following the straight path of rules put upon you by others. It is your creation alone. I create because I was created. My art gives me freedom to be my own person. Art reflects the total of our society, the past, present and future.
TAOB:When was your first exhibit in Brownsville and how has the local art scene change to present day ?
Marilyn:
I think the first time I exhibited my work in Brownsville was in 1990 or 1991 at the Brownsville International Art Exhibit and I was pleasantly surprised to be awarded ribbons. I have exhibited there yearly every since then. I also have exhibited at the Harlingen Art Forum, Purple Parrot at Port Isabel, and at the South Padre Convention Center locally. I also had my works featured at the Albertine Art Museum in Metamora, Mexico.
Today there appears to be much more publicity and emphasis on the local artists. I am very pleased that he BV Herald has been doing regular feature articles on local artists. This was a rarity 10 years ago.
Our new Brownsville Museum of Fine Art is exposing the community to artwork they would not have the opportunity to see without traveling to Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Houston or Dallas. I am somewhat disappointed that more of our local artists have not become affiliated and actively involved with the new BMFA. It is no longer the group of little old ladies painting together but has expanded into a cultural jewel for Brownsville. BMFA has featured numerous local artists since opening the new facility three years ago.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
Marilyn:
Each person has a different definition of success. I feel success each time I feel a work of mine is worth framing. Others might only feel success if someone else admires or buys their work. I don't want to paint to please others, if others enjoy and like my work that is a bonus.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
Marilyn:
Disciplining oneself to make the time to create, setting aside time to be in the studio without interruptions. Many artists struggle with being "accepted" by their peers and the public but fortunately I don't feel this way, probably this is because as a retired person I don't have to make a living with my art. I can just hope to sell enough to replenish my art supplies, go to workshops and buy more art from others I admire.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
Marilyn:
I am not like any other "character", I am me. I like "oldies" from the 60-80's, soft rock, and classical music.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
Marilyn:
I am FEARLESS, I love to play with my art, it is never too late to have a happy childhood, to toss and splatter paint.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
Marilyn:
Immigration reform, we need to implement a new alien workers program.
The Border Fence: totally a farce in this area of Mexican and American neighbors.
Need to legalize drugs so the cartels and smugglers will be out of business as were the bootleggers when prohibition was lifted.
The economy: Not sure the stimulation plan will do much good. Limits should be set on all CEO's pay and bonus pay that are being provided money from the taxpayers. Our representatives in government should not receive raises in pay or perks during this serious recession.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
Marilyn:
We need more interaction between artists and artist groups in BV and less competition. A city wide Art Council to coordinate community art events would be great. We need spokesmen for the arts in our city government, doers not just talkers. We need local government support for art to grow in our area. If a River-walk ever comes to being, artists should be a part of the planning stage.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
Marilyn:
Peace among nations, tolerance of individual's ethnics, race and religion.
Alleviating famine worldwide
"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you"
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
BMFA BUS TOUR TO MCALLEN ARTWALK 3/06
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact:Brownsville Museum of Fine ArtGene Allen, Trustee(956) 371-2070 Art museum hosts all-Valley bus tour The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art is hosting a chartered bus tour on March 6. Geared for art lovers of all ages, the tour will give participants the chance to experience the artistic offerings of the upper and lower Valley in a guided setting. The tour will begin at the museum at 4 p.m. with a tour of the BMFA 38th International Art Show. The competition will feature over 100 artists from throughout the Americas. Renowned Mexican artist Emilio Abugarade will judge the event. A collection of his work will be on display. A bus will depart the museum at 5 p.m. bound for the McAllen Art Walk, a self-guided tour of art galleries in one of the oldest areas of McAllen. Museum Trustee Gene Allen will provide an orientation en route profiling artists on display on the Art Walk. A wine & cheese gathering will take place in McAllen at The Art House courtyard at 8:30 p.m. featuring performances by professional flamenco dancers from Reynosa and the Valencia dance troupe. “This is a great opportunity for art lovers to mix and mingle,” Allen said. “It’s also a great way to experience the diverse art the Valley has to offer.” Tickets are available at the museum for $20. Reservations must be made by February 20. Museum admission fee is $5. For more information contact Gene Allen at (956) 371-2070 Barry T. HornBrownsville Museum of Fine Art660 East Ringgold StreetBrownsville, TX 78520956-542-0941 Office956-561-0110 Cell bhorn@brownsvillemfa.org
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS BMFA BUS TOUR IDEA - COMMENTS WELCOMED....
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS BMFA BUS TOUR IDEA - COMMENTS WELCOMED....
Sunday, February 08, 2009
TAOB Interviews Carlos G. Gomez
Carlos G. Gómez
http://us.mc355.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=ggomez5522@aol.com
http://blue.utb.edu/cgomez/old%20art%20page/new%20gomez%20site%202006.html
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood?
Gomez: I was born in Mexico DF in 1952, but I was raised in Brownsville. My first memories are of us living in a tool shed with a dirt floor, a tire rim to cook on and to keep a group of people most who I did not know warm . I remember two outhouses and many smiles from the adults. The rest varies from great times with immediate family to living in areas of Brownsville plagued with all sorts of crime and perversions. Eventually things got better as we moved around the Faulk area…I avoided trouble, worked hard in school and sports and here I am!
TAOB: Describe your art?
Gomez: Social- Abstract –Surrealism. To me people are the most important things in this planet, so I paint about society and its issues. I condense those issues and use specific iconography to say what I have to say. Life or what happens in life is “nutty”. Sometimes I can’t believe what goes on and what we do to ourselves…this is what I paint about. I have no time to paint pretty pictures or stuff that is trivialized or deals with pop culture. At my age I find that stuff boring and it contributes nothing to the evolution of art. That type of art is here today and gone tomorrow…just look at history.
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose?
Gomez: I really don’t think art is important. I think that we as individuals choose to make it important. I understand the historical aspect of art and how it helps define humanity, but if you think about it and I assume we are talking about Fine Art and not crafts, art means nothing to that guy who can’t pay his bills or a family where a TV provides release…what would they do with a dumb picture of a cow or dog? Sadly, my artwork only contributes to those who have a need to see art or want to see art. Even though I do target society in general, the reality is that I don’t have the desire to entertain people. My purpose is to educate, inform and expose.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from?
Gomez: First of all, I am not an artist, I am a painter. This is important to clarify and to answer your question correctly. Artist per say provide a service by entertaining society. Painters paint. As a painter success comes from reaching the goals that you set up for yourself. These goals can be anything, from exhibiting to selling to developing skills to producing work. Success for some is being accepted as a serious “artist” or being seen as one committed to his work. So success has many avenues and we or those who produce art define our content (success).
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis?
Gomez: Procrastination!
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you?
Gomez: My own, the stuff I rip out from my 5 guitars. My character is that of a sweet loveable Doberman who loves chorizo and who loves to go against the grain. I am stern but fair and respect those who are true…can’t stand hypocrisy and racist.
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of?
Gomez: I am afraid of idiots, racist, hypocrites, bigots, back stabbers, lairs, and those who hide things.
TAOB: Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, which is of importance to you?
Gomez: That is easy, anything that keeps Chicanos, Mexican-Americans out of mainstream. Why aren’t we in the major museums, movies, TV, etc. Gee just look at the scene…something is wrong!
TAOB: Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not?
Gomez: Yes but only if that artistic community does not eat at each other…and only if there is patronage…equitable patronage.
TAOB: Besides family and art what else is important to you?
Gomez: Well first of all I would not put art in the same sentence with the word family, but to answer your question, truth. Truth to me is something I look for.
Oh by the way, I personally would like to thank you and the TAOB blog for essentially being the voice if not the only driving force behind listing what goes on in the art scene in Brownsville and for that matter in the valley. There is no other entity that promotes the way the blog does. If it were not for the blog many of the local artists would be invisible and much that goes on in the city would be unknown to most. Who else promotes local artist and profiles them. Each of the “established” or exhibition places cater to “their” click or hidden agenda and do not represent the Art of Brownsville or what is important to our culture. So thank you, Myra who started it all and all those who have worked or supported the blog. It is simply the most constant source of artistic dissemination in the city, and most important non-bias…thanks... Gabby
...cgg
TAOB:Many thanks Gomez for your time and responses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
TAOB INTERVIEWS CANDE AGUILAR
TAOB INTEVIEWS CANDE AGUILAR
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
CANDE: I was born in brownsville tx, seagulls begging for food, the sound of a shutting screen door, and conjunto music playing at sun set, memories of my parents dancing at the halls where my dad played conjunto music.
TAOB:Describe your art ?
CANDE: My art is being developed as we speak, its a pirate in the horizon, a door that you can see through and is always open, an art that wont give you the answer, but will get you closer to the truth.
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
CANDE: Art is important to human's sensitivity it brings people to there senses, whether you like it or not, it will give you something back, my art contributes to this by simply existing..
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
CANDE: Success comes from discipline, hard work, and the total dedication to the vision that inspires the artist to create it. An artist has to make his/her best effort to show the work.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
CANDE: An artist is a always a person first, we all know that, therefore any kind of life obstacle is a struggle, but when it comes to making the art itself, the biggest struggle for me is the detachment from the work as its being made, lets say, for example, if I draw or apply something that looks good and then the painting calls for me to paint over it, I have to detach myself from the hard work in order to let the painting reveal itself, when this happens the results are good and inspiring.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
CANDE: I would say that my favorite type of music is any kind of classical music whether its conjunto, jazz, classical, rock, latin jazz etc. (if I can listen to every single song on a cd, thats what I consider classical, at list thats how I can explain it)... The character that describes me is superman! at list in the eyes of my two little girls, I would hope that in my wife's eyes as well..
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
CANDE: artists that think their curators and curators that think their artists..
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
CANDE: I am hopeful that the economic state in which this country is in, will be worked out and solved by our elected officials, the president of the United States has been taking quick action in proposing plans that I feel will put people back to work, for example, money for the restoration of federal buildings, the rebuilding of roads and schools, in short, I think things will get better. I would like to see New Orleans rebuilt so that its people can return home to there families.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
CANDE: I think a community of artists would attract art lovers from around the world, that is if the artists are truly engaged in dialogue and the production of an art that corresponds with our unique place in this world.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
CANDE: Good health and a good conversation, its like good food, its important to me for people to go to my exhibits, coincidently I hope that all the bloggers can make it out to my exhibit, World Affair, this Thursday Feb. 5th at the International Museum of Arts & Science in McAllen TX..I had to plug the show, all the best and saludos to TAOB....
CANDE MANY THANKS FOR YOUR TIME AND SUPPORT..
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 3, 2009
Media Contact: Desiree Longoria, IMAS Marketing Officer, 956-682-1564, dlongoria@imasonline.org
World Affair at IMAS
McAllen- The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is pleased to announce Cande Aguilar’s exhibit opening World Affair on February 5, 2009. This exhibition presents works created with materials that puzzle but reveal contemporary human pattern, whether it is about spirituality, popular culture, or the environment. World Affair engages the viewer in a dialogue that transcends borders and oceans.
The works consist of large scale pure abstract and figurative mixed media paintings, works on paper, and assemblages, which reflect the colorful neighborhoods in the Rio Grande Valley. Admire the impressive body of work and meet the artist at the World Affair Reception Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 5:30 p.m.
World Affair will be on display at the International Museum of Art & Science through April 26, 2009. View the unique art form found only in the Rio Grande Valley.
###
Monday, February 02, 2009
MISSION STATEMENT- The Art of Brownsville
I have decided to have a mission for The Art of Brownsville Blog, a future, a purpose, for all the information that is being gathered in this blog..so that it does not just fade away into the oblivion..I have decided to write and publish(self-publish if need be) a book on the art of Brownsville to include artist, pictures, interviews, art reviews input on the history of art in Brownsville and its surrounding area of course, ... Don't ask me how or when, I have just recently decided this.. In order for this to work I will need your help, your interest to make this work.. Nothing will change in a sense I will continue to post as usual but with the intention that all this is for the purpose of gathering information on art happenings and artist, a reflection on life in the RGV as an artist..
Once I have enough info to produce the book , I will stop the blog writing and will archive all the blog info, perhaps in a time capsule.....
Hopefully when we are all long gone, and new generations come about, artist and the art scene we lived, will not be forgotten,, well, something of this sort...hopefully you get the idea for now.. So keep sending me your info, pictures brownsvilleartform@yahoo.com
Hey all great things exist only in its purpose.
gt -taob
Once I have enough info to produce the book , I will stop the blog writing and will archive all the blog info, perhaps in a time capsule.....
Hopefully when we are all long gone, and new generations come about, artist and the art scene we lived, will not be forgotten,, well, something of this sort...hopefully you get the idea for now.. So keep sending me your info, pictures brownsvilleartform@yahoo.com
Hey all great things exist only in its purpose.
gt -taob
WORLD AFFAIR -OPENS THURSDAY 2/05/09
WORLD AFFAIR - ART EXHIBITION BY CANDE AGUILAR
WHERE:INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS & SCIENCE
(CLARK GALLERY)
FEB. 5, 2009 - APRIL26, 2009
RECEPTION FEB. 5 FROM 5:30 TO 7:30PM
WHERE:INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS & SCIENCE
(CLARK GALLERY)
FEB. 5, 2009 - APRIL26, 2009
RECEPTION FEB. 5 FROM 5:30 TO 7:30PM
TAOB Interview with Paul Valadez
Interview with Paul Valadez
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
Paul: I was born in San Francisco, California I grew up 80 miles due east in the central valley in the medium sized city of Stockton just south of Sacramento.
My father had a real nice car that he bought used for a song ( a 1951 Jaguar). My father decided to sell the car and that helped him to get the down payment to purchase the home I grew up in.
I remember my family struggling through layoffs and economic down turns to hold on to that house.
We did not have any extra money but we were not poor because we had a house.
I remember my mother making me lunch at home, I could run home have lunch and run back to school and that was wonderful.
I remember taking a ride in a Viking ship an artist friend of my father made.
my childhood memories that are most vivid have to do with visiting relatives and taking day trips to San Francisco. ( I remember staring at hippies from the back seat of Chevys )
TAOB: Describe your art ?
Paul: In a single sentence my art work is what I find interesting at the moment.
To physically describe it I would have to explain that my work is firmly rooted or based in a printmakers practice.
I took a lot of printmaking courses and I considered myself a printmaker for years before I focused on painting. That said I hope that you can see a real graphic quality in my art work.
My aesthetic is one of surface and texture over fool the eye realism. Instead of my paintings functioning as a window you look through It might be better to describe my work as a wall.
And on that wall is a sign, ultimately I guess I am sort of a sign maker.
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
Paul: art enriches peoples lives, art functions like music for the eyes.
Art duz not cloth, feed you, or give you shelter but it can entertain, enrage, bore, scare, disgust , bring joy and a million other things, ultimately it enriches ones’ life.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
Paul: success comes from the criteria that you as an individual assign to the idea of success.
For example if success is millions of dollars, then there are a great many successful artists to be sure but the vast majority of artists would be failures.
On the other hand if success is pleasing a friend with a work of art that you made, then there are millions of successful artists.
To me I am somewhere in between those two opposite poles.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
Paul : the same struggles that everyone faces, for many its making a living and paying the bills.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
Paul : it is easier for me to describe the music I dislike, basically any type of music that is over produced and over hyped and or aimed at tweens and teens.
The character that describes me? my wife thinks sluggo from the comics I would think of more in the line a cross between Zorro and Mr. Magoo
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
Paul: I have so many fears I used to write them upon my studio wall and before I moved here it was a fear of Texas.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
Paul : I have no views on politics I blissfully skip through life trying not to care.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
Paul: I suppose perhaps if we get a enough of them we can entice a larger art supply store or at least some used music/book stores to set up business in the valley.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
Paul : food and film but not necessarily in that order, food, friends, film and felines.
Paul , Many thanks of your time and reponses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
TAOB READERS... MORE INTERVIEWS TO COME.....Artist Interviews by Gabriel Trevino.
TAOB: Where were you born and what do you remember most about your childhood ?
Paul: I was born in San Francisco, California I grew up 80 miles due east in the central valley in the medium sized city of Stockton just south of Sacramento.
My father had a real nice car that he bought used for a song ( a 1951 Jaguar). My father decided to sell the car and that helped him to get the down payment to purchase the home I grew up in.
I remember my family struggling through layoffs and economic down turns to hold on to that house.
We did not have any extra money but we were not poor because we had a house.
I remember my mother making me lunch at home, I could run home have lunch and run back to school and that was wonderful.
I remember taking a ride in a Viking ship an artist friend of my father made.
my childhood memories that are most vivid have to do with visiting relatives and taking day trips to San Francisco. ( I remember staring at hippies from the back seat of Chevys )
TAOB: Describe your art ?
Paul: In a single sentence my art work is what I find interesting at the moment.
To physically describe it I would have to explain that my work is firmly rooted or based in a printmakers practice.
I took a lot of printmaking courses and I considered myself a printmaker for years before I focused on painting. That said I hope that you can see a real graphic quality in my art work.
My aesthetic is one of surface and texture over fool the eye realism. Instead of my paintings functioning as a window you look through It might be better to describe my work as a wall.
And on that wall is a sign, ultimately I guess I am sort of a sign maker.
TAOB: Why do you think art is important and how do you feel your art contributes to that purpose ?
Paul: art enriches peoples lives, art functions like music for the eyes.
Art duz not cloth, feed you, or give you shelter but it can entertain, enrage, bore, scare, disgust , bring joy and a million other things, ultimately it enriches ones’ life.
TAOB: As an artist where do you think success comes from ?
Paul: success comes from the criteria that you as an individual assign to the idea of success.
For example if success is millions of dollars, then there are a great many successful artists to be sure but the vast majority of artists would be failures.
On the other hand if success is pleasing a friend with a work of art that you made, then there are millions of successful artists.
To me I am somewhere in between those two opposite poles.
TAOB: What is one of the struggles you think an artist faces on a daily basis ?
Paul : the same struggles that everyone faces, for many its making a living and paying the bills.
TAOB: What is your favorite type of music and what type of character would you say describes you ?
Paul : it is easier for me to describe the music I dislike, basically any type of music that is over produced and over hyped and or aimed at tweens and teens.
The character that describes me? my wife thinks sluggo from the comics I would think of more in the line a cross between Zorro and Mr. Magoo
TAOB: As an artist what can you say you are afraid of ?
Paul: I have so many fears I used to write them upon my studio wall and before I moved here it was a fear of Texas.
TAOB:Tell us your view on any particular political issue local, state or federal, that is of importance to you?
Paul : I have no views on politics I blissfully skip through life trying not to care.
TAOB:Do you believe in a community of artist to be beneficial, why or why not ?
Paul: I suppose perhaps if we get a enough of them we can entice a larger art supply store or at least some used music/book stores to set up business in the valley.
TAOB:Besides family and art what else is important to you ?
Paul : food and film but not necessarily in that order, food, friends, film and felines.
Paul , Many thanks of your time and reponses on this TAOB Blog Artist Interview....
TAOB READERS... MORE INTERVIEWS TO COME.....Artist Interviews by Gabriel Trevino.
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