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...