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.

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

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!

Border Bandits

I got this notice from Las Comadres Listserve:

BORDER BANDITS broadcast in Rio Grande Valley delayed!!!

We just received word today that KBMH (Harlingen) has decided to postpone
tonight's broadcast of Border Bandits. According to their programming
manager, it will now air on June 7, at 7 pm. You may contact them at (956)
421-4111

"Texas Rangers and Border Bandits"
THE
SAN ANTONIO CURRENT

"The documentary offers a first-hand account of the killings."
THE NEW YORK TIMES

"Tells all our stories, even the parts we'd rather leave out."
THE SAN ANTONIO CURRENT

"There is nothing self-righteous or strident about its tone."
THE VALLEY MORNING STAR

"Blows the John Wayne mythos right the hell out of Dodge."
THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE

"Along the way Warnock, who isn't Hispanic, uncovered the bigger story."
THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS

Border Bandits sparks bill in the Texas Legislature!!!
Rep. Aaron Pena introduces legislation after viewing the documentary!!!
Read about it here
.
Border Bandits airs on Texas PBS stations

BROWNSVILLE JUNE 7, 7 PM
On May 16, 9:00 pm, there will be a state-wide broadcast of BORDER
BANDITS.

Listen to Austin radio station KUT's story on Border Bandits:
here!

View the trailer here.

Border Bandits Synopsis
From the producer of the award-winning PBS documentary Return to Giant comes a new look at a very old incident. In 1915 a group of Mexican banditos raided the McAllen Ranch, one of the largest in the area. The next day a group of Texas Rangers supposedly arrived and eliminated the perpetrators. However, the real story is not as tidy as it has been portrayed. Roland Warnock, a 19-year-old cowboy working on the Guadalupe Ranch near present-day Edinburg, witnessed two of these killings when he saw Texas Rangers from Company D shoot two unarmed men in the back and leave their bodies by the side of the road. The effects of these killings by the Rangers are being felt in south Texas some 80 years later. This single incident
brings into play much of the roots of the distrust between Mexicans and the Rangers, as well as the continued friction between Hispanics and Anglos in Texas.
An important and moving story, Border Bandits was produced and directed by Kirby Warnock, the grandson of Roland Warnock, and features the actual voice of Roland Warnock as he describes the events of 1915. In 1974, he sat down with his grandson and dictated the entire story to him on a reel-to-reel tape recorder for Baylor University's oral history program. The younger Warnock kept the tapes, then thirty years later digitized them and placed them in this documentary, with re-enactors portraying the events described by Roland Warnock. Unlike other documentaries that rely on voice talent to read letters or journals, Border Bandits contains the actual voice of the primary source of information, Roland Warnock, lending it an air of authenticity unmatched in most documentaries.
Re-enactment scenes were filmed at Old City Park in Dallas, and Warnock's family ranch near Fort Stockton, Texas. Narration for the film is provided by Jon Dillon, the well-known radio personality for KZPS, 92.5 FM in Dallas, Texas.
Because of its Hispanic influences, the film demanded Mexican-themed music, but the only problem was that Kirby did not speak Spanish and was not totally familiar with Tex-Mex music, save for the cojunto radio stations he heard growing up. Faced with this dilemma, he went back to his roots-rock and roll.
"I've always been a big fan of the Eagles' album, Desperado, so I contacted Don Henley and asked him if we could do a Spanish version of the title song. He gave us permission and basically said that it would be no problem for him to get us the clearances," recalls Warnock.
For the performers, he "stumbled" across The Ramirez Family, an all-female mariachi band from Odessa, Texas. "A close friend took me to lunch at a restaurant in Midland, and The Ramirez Family was performing there. I had never heard those Tex-Mex sounds coming out of a female band before, and I was immediately captivated." Warnock tracked down Betty Ramirez, the leader, and arranged for them to record "Desperado" in Spanish for the soundtrack. The result is a haunting score of a familiar rock standard, sung in Spanish by female voices.

For more information on upcoming screenings, bookmark this site, or e-mail
kirby@bigbendquarterly.com

Read the story that inspired the film, from the book Texas Cowboy,
available
from Trans-Pecos
Productions, P.O. Box 4124, Dallas, TX 75208.

Read the story that
inspired the film

Get a sneak peak of the new website in development
here .


For Big Bend Quarterly's official website, click here.

Downtown Mural

I often pass by this mural in downtown Brownsville located on the corner of Elizabeth and 8th street. I am not sure who the artist may be but I have a hunch it may be Brownsville muralist Luis "Wichi" Guevera who has a few murals around town. I don't have my sources or facts confirmed, but I believe that a groups of artists tried to organize an art group in that building, thus the mural, which may be a collaborative mural.

The art group no longer functions at the buidling and I don't know if they are still working in the community. The space is actually for rent but the mural remains and it is in pretty bad condition (notice the peeling and gang tagging). I don't know why the mural is peeling since it is relatively new (not more than 8 years). It could be that the wall was not primed before the mural went on or that the paints used were not made to sustain extreme changes in humidity and temperature.

Besides the damage, the mural is beautiful and depicts a scene from historical photographs of Elizabeth Street. To see more historical photos of downtown Brownsville click here. Yet in it's sad state of neglect, the mural represents to me the current state of downtown Brownsville. While some areas have been renovated by the city, university, museums and a few philanthropic business people, downtown is still rather downtrodden with many buildings in neglect and decay.

I really think our downtown is a diamond in the rough that can make Brownsvillle shine even more if more of our citizens took time and interest to invest in it. As the second most historical city in Texas and the oldest city in the Valley, we should take advantage of making our downtown a city attraction, much like Austin, San Antonio and New Orleans have. The big problem that people say about downtown is the lack of parking. Yes, I have to admitt parking is not easy in downtown Brownsville but it's not that bad and you can find small parking lots scattered through downtown if you are willing to walk a couple of blocks. Hey, that's how parking worked most of the time for me in Austin and San Antonio. What would be perfect in downtown Brownsville is if someone would invest in building a parking garage or two.

So come on folks! Let's get things going in downtown Brownsville!

Take another look

On the same scavenger hunt, my cousin and I came by this palm tree near Americo Paredes Elementary on Paredes Line Road that had many stuffed animals attached to it. My guess is that a child was killed close that spot. My mother says a young boy was hit by a car when he was riding his skateboard, but my constant Herald and Google searches provided fruitless. I will keep doing more reseach until I find an actual news report. If anyone knows exactly what happened, your information would be most appreciated. I am also trying to keep my comp alive because I have once agian left my battery in McAllen so I have to pretty much end my research. :(

The tree caught my attention because usually the act of making a homage to the location of a death is something commonly practiced in the Rio Grande Valley. You see it often in Brownsville (crosses on the side of the road) and leaving toys (in the case of the death of a child). Just take a look of the pictures I took of the apartment where the three children were killed by their parents two years ago. But what really caught my attention was the location. This tree is in the newly developed, suburban part of town...but then next to this perfectly trimmed sidewalk with a red bricked fence is palm tree that suggests a culture of people that has deeper roots than that of the newly planted and manicured palm tree. I doubt you would find a community display like this common in Westlake of Austin or The Woodlands of Houston.

Take a second look

Yesterday my cousin David and I went on a Brownsville photo scavenger hunt of sorts. Imagine my suprise when we passed by the First National Bank to see a tag on the front column of the bank...but not just any tag..but an aerosol stencil tag a la Roy Lichtenstein.

This is the stencil as it can be seem from the corner 7th st. and Levee.


Here is a close up of the stencil.


David and I were arguing if the face was that of a woman or man. He insisted it was a man due to the short hair but to me the facial features are suspiciously feminine (check out the smokey eyes) if not atleast boy-ish. Now that I look at it more, the face sports a resemblance to Eddie Munster of The Munsters or even Speed Racer. Oh well, I don't know who this tagger may be but I was defintely suprised to see this style of graffiti in Brownsville.

Does anyone have any clues to what this graffiti is about? Or could it be a UTB art student using up the last of their Spring semester supplies? Coming from an art school background I feel this tag has more artistic motive behind it than some territorial marker and has been made by someone with art background if not by an art student. For one thing, it brings fine art into question just by invoking a Pop Art style. What do you all think? I wonder if the bank has plans to remove it or if anyone has noticed it?

Hmmmm...

T3: Revenge of the Tlacuache!

CALL FOR ARTISTS:



Organizers of the Tlacuachismo are extending a call for works for yet another summer Tlacuache extravaganza. This year's exhibit will 'hang out' at the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center in San Benito, Texas. The exhibit will be up from June 13 - July 29, with a reception on Midsummer's Eve, June 21, from 7-9pm. Poets and writers will also attend to read works in the accompanying literary Tlacuachismo genre. The theme again is the opossum, or tlacuache, as found in post-modern and contemporary art.

This year's submissions will be juried by STC art instructor James Miller. Mr. Miller was last year's winner of the prestigious Tlacuache de Oro, for his work, Bad Opossums. The Tlacuache de Oro will then be passed to the new honoree for the best of show. Honorable mentions agian will be mentioned.

Works will be accepted by the jury from June 8-12. All pieces must be received ready to hang from the wall. Works should not exceed 3x4 feet in area, and a limited number of pedestals will be available for 3 dimensional work. Up to three works per artist will be accepted. Since the exhibit is organized independently, artists will be asked to donate a small enrty fee to cover the cost of postcards and other promotional information.

The make arrangements to submit work and fill out exhibit form, or if you have any questions, please contact Rachael F. Brown at rfbrown@southtexascollege.edu or (956) 316-3330, Dahlia Guzman at iamnotin@yahoo.com or (956) 383-1528, or Cristina Balli at nmcacsb@yahoo.com or (956) 361-0110.

Matamoros Exhibition: Christa Cowrie

El Museo Arte Contemporaneo de Tamaulipas presenta:


Christa Cowrie
Ecos de Mexico * Fotografia

Mayo - Junio 2005

Ave. Constitución y Quinta S/N. Col. Jardín C.P. 87330.
Tel. (868) 813-14-99  y 813-77-30.
H. Matamoros. Tam., México
http://mact.tamaulipas.gob.mx

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

Personal Note: I just went today on a whim walking from the Gateway bridge and I had a blast! The new Parque Olympico is so impressive with their new auditorio, infoteca and as well with the nearby museo. The modern architecture is so impressive! I don't think I have been so impressed since my visit to the Modern Art museum in Fort Worth and Matamoros impressed me more so because the buildings were nicely lit, airy, and a festive green and red whereas the museum in Waco sticks to this cold concrete grey (still impressive but not as fun!). The Christa Cowrie exhibition is impressive as well and I feel that she has followed in the foot steps of Manuel Alvarez Bravo by attempting to capture the spirit of the contemporary Mexican people. The first floor of the museum also has an exhibtion of prints which I assume may be on loan from UT-Pan Am. I really recommened that you all go to see the exhibitions! You won't regret it. Also take a walk over to the new auditorium and info center which is right behind the museum. It will be a monumental experience!

Casa de la Cultura de Reynosa Obra: Bajo Llave

Casa de la Cultura de Reynosa presenta

Una obra de teatro del grup Independiente "Loa" en la Casa de la Cultura.

Nombre de la obra:   "Bajo llave"
Autor: Bárbara Colio
Director: Eduardo Calderón
Estreno:  Jueves 19 de mayo a las 7:00 y a las 8:30 pm en la Casa de la Cultura de Reynosa.

Otras funciones: (other dates)
Viernes 27 de mayo a las 8:00 pm
3 de junio a las 8:00 pm
10 de junio a las 8:00 pm

La cooperación para entrar es de $ 30.00. (pesos)

CASA DE LA CULTURA DE REYNOSA, A.C.
Zaragoza y Bertha G. de Garza Zamora, Zona Centro
(3 blocks south of the McAllen-Reynosa Gateway Bridge)
Reynosa, Tam., México
Tel. (899) 922-9989
Fax. (899) 922-3188

*******

Personal note: I have been working with Casa de la Cultura and I cannot speak highly enough of them as they work hard to provide quality cultural arts programs and education for the Reynosa community. I am so impressed with their work and I know you will be too. I urge you to attend their theatre performance "Bajo Llave" (under locked key).

Back in the roll of things

Woweeee....

Sorry it has been a while since I last updated....it's like a ghost town here. Daily visits went down by 40% or so....so yeah..I need to update more often.

I decided to nix the whole having another blog idea because I won't be having much time to update two blogs. A lot of changed in my life in the past three weeks and things will continue to change in the next couple of months as well. Like for one, I am now returning to school to pursue my M.B.A. which 4 weeks ago was not an immediate goal. I need to return to school because I need a full-time student status to be insured under my father's plan so that I can receive medical treatment for the teratoma physicians found when the ER took a C-Scan after I had the accident on the freeway. But in light of the accident, I am actually looking forward to going back to school and working towards my dream of being a shoe designer and founding a company and eventually a foundation.

I am still working in McAllen, but by mid-summer I am coming back to Brownsville to take full-time classes at UTB and hopefully work a part-time job in my field. I have a busy schedule ahead for the first part of summer because I will be taking two online courses while I work two jobs in McAllen and get treated in Brownsville. But I know if I get myself organized I can do it! I really look forward to being back in Brownsville more often. I miss home so much. Even though the Upper Valley has afforded me so many good experiences, I still love coming back home. No place compares to my home!

Well, I must got to bed. I finally have a free Saturday just to laze around! Woo Hoo! My cousin and I will be going around Bville taking some pictures that I have been needing to take for a while now. I will share them as soon as I can. Then I am going to a graduation party in Harlingen that should be fun. The graduate is the son of one of two women who helped me on the expressway after the accident and now it is like we are family. They even came to my birthday party last week! (Yup, I am now 24 years old...but thank God I made it to 24!) Well, goodnight everyone and I hope you all have a great weekend!

Conjunto Celebration

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WHAT:

Conjunto Celebration:
Reconocimiento, Pláticas, y Música
A Community Residency Program

FEATURING:

Mario Saenz, Sr., renowned bajo sexto musician
Ernesto Guerra, acclaimed accordion player
Rosa & Joe Pérez, members of the popular duet Rumbo al’ Anacua
Roel Sandoval Flores, prominent Valley artist, songwriter, and instrument maker

WHEN:

May 9 to May 21, 2005

WHERE:

La Joya, Edcouch-Elsa, Peñitas, Palmview, San Benito, Santa Rosa, and El Ranchito

For schedules and more information regarding this event, please contact:

Amancio Chapa, Director Fine Arts Department La Joya High School
956-580-5160, a.chapa7@ljisd.esc1.net
Cristina Ballí, Director Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center
956-361-0110, cristinaballi@yahoo.com
or visit the Texas Folklife Resources website: http://www.texasfolklife.org

All events are free and open to the public.

From May 9 to May 21 Hidalgo and Cameron Counties will host an exciting cultural arts program that celebrates Mexican American culture, art, and musical traditions. The Community Residency event will include musical performances, workshops, exhibits, jam sessions, and public talks in the towns of La Joya, Edcouch-Elsa, Peñitas, Palmview, San Benito, Santa Rosa, and El Ranchito. This two-week-long event is presented and organized by Texas Folklife Resources, the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center, and the La Joya Independent School District, and is made possible in part through funding from national and statewide organizations including National Endowment for the Arts and Texas Commission on the Arts.

This extended Residency features several local artists. Bajo sexto musician Mario Saenz, Sr., accordionist Ernesto Guerra, artist Roel Flores, and Joe and Rosa Pérez from the popular duet Rumbo al’ Anacua will present and discuss the “Conjunto” tradition at schools, nursing homes, cultural arts centers, local restaurants, senior centers, and other venues. Through their performances these artists will help members of the community explore the meaning and symbolism behind Conjunto music, and the lessons of individual creativity, family unity, cultural identity, and community celebration embedded in the Conjunto tradition.

About the Artists:

Mario Saenz, Sr. and his group, Los Gavilanes de Mario Saenz, achieved great popularity in the late 1950s and went on to produce four hit albums, seven hit 45’s, and nine CDs. Mr. Saenz has made tremendous contributions to the musical traditions of the Valley including conjunto, corridos, rancheras, and boleros.

Ernesto Guerra is known across the Rio Grande Valley as one of the most talented accordionists in the conjunto and polka music traditions. His extraordinary skill has earned him the nickname of “El Sicodélico.” In 1959 he formed his own group, Conjunto del Valle, which launched Mr. Guerra on a productive recording career.

Roel Flores has established himself as a recognized visual artist and musician in South Texas. Both his art and his music deeply reflect the experience of migrant farm workers. The public can view his art on display at the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center on May 21 for the final event of the Residency Program. In 2000, Mr. Flores’ artwork brought him recognition when the Smithsonian Institute exhibited his work in the Washington D.C. National Mall Folklife Festival. Subsequently, his work went on tour as part of the “El Rio” traveling exhibit, also produced by the Smithsonian Institute.

Rosa and Joe Pérez are educators, cultural activists and self-taught musicians. Their duet, “Rumbo al’ Anacua,” blends the style of old música ranchera, contemporary pieces of original folk music, and blues, all of which reflect the rhythm of life in deep South Texas. This dynamic couple also produces and hosts North of the Border, a public radio program of Mexican roots music and socio-historical commentary. In addition, Joe and Rosa coordinate a monthly writers’ forum. For the Residency Program, they will conduct creative writing exercises on community histories and traditional song writing with local students.

The Gran Celebración or final event for this Residency will take place on Saturday, May 21, at the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center in San Benito from 3:00 to 8:00 pm. We invite the community to join us for a full day of spirited performances, public discussions, cultural activities, workshops, and art exhibits.

The extended event in the Rio Grande Valley is one of several Community Residencies scheduled throughout Texas for spring of 2005. These Residency Programs aim to raise the visibility of the extraordinary local talent that exists in rural communities throughout Texas and to educate the public about Texas folk traditions. Texas Folklife Resources is a statewide non-profit cultural organization that serves both Texas folk artists and their audiences by helping to present and promote a diverse and living artistic heritage for all Texans.

For a schedule of events for the Cameron and Hidalgo Counties Community Residency Program, please contact Amancio Chapa at 956-580-5160 (a.chapa7@ljisd.esc1.net) or Cristina Ballí at 956-361-0110 (cristinaballi@yahoo.com), or see the TFR website at www.texasfolklife.org. For more information on Texas Folklife Resources, contact Michelle Wibbelsman at (512) 371-9128 (mwibbelsman@yahoo.com) or Nancy Bless at (512) 441-9255 (texasfolklife@bizaustin.rr.com).

Cristina Balli
Director of Programming & Development
Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center
P.O. Box 471
225 Stenger Street
San Benito, Texas 78586
(956) 361-0110

RGV Center of Fine Arts Acting and Directing Classes

Rio Grande Valley Center of Fine Arts presents:

Acting and Directing Classes with Pedro Garcia


Drama Coordinator, Pedro Garcia, has been a stage performer and film actor since 1987, and has appeared in over fifty plays, and several films. His movie credits include: Living the Life, Pain Flower starring Jesse Borrego, Mad Love starring Drew Barrymore among others. He is a member of the Screen Actors Guild, and Co-founder of Teatro Nuestra Cultura.

The Drama Department is offering acting and directing classes for amateurs and professionals. Instruction will be based, in part, on the teachings of Constantine Stanislavski.


Schedule for Drama & Directing Workshops:

Children's Acting workshop:

DATES: Saturdays, May 14 through July 2, Eight-week workshop
TIME: 9:30 am - 11:00 am
AGES: (Ages 8 - 13) 15 students maximum, 8 students minimum
PRICE: members $120, non-members $144


Acting for Beginners:

DATES: Monday's and Wednesday's, May 15 through July 4
Eight-week workshop
TIME: 9:30 am - 11:00 am
AGES: (Ages 14 and above) 15 students maximum, 8 students minimum
PRICE: members $240, non-members$288
DESCRIPTION:Acting students who are beginners will learn stage directions, voice projection, articulation, learning lines and the basics and disciplines of acting including an awareness of the senses and being in character.

Advanced Acting:

DATES: Monday's and Wednesday's May 16 through July 6 Eight-week workshop
TIME: 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
AGES: (Ages 14 and above)
15 students maximum, 8 students minimum
PRICE: members $240, non-members$288
DESCRIPTION: Acting students who are more advanced and gearing themselves to a professional career will learn the methods of acting including character and script analysis to present a more believable and natural character. This class also includes improvising, and voice and body language.


Play/Film Directing:

DATES: Saturdays, May 14 through June 18, Six-week workshop
TIME: 1:30 pm-4:00 pm
AGES: (Ages 14 and above)15 students maximum, 8 students minimum
PRICE: members $150, non-members$180
DESCRIPTION: Directing students will learn the basics of directing and producing a play/film, to include, choosing the right script, production meetings, scheduling rehearsals or shoots, budgeting, auditioning, directing actors, understanding the script, blocking, and working with the rest of the crew including the publicity department.

*Each class will culminate with a public viewing of some of the works that will be established from the workshop, and each participant will receive a certificate of achievement and attendance upon successfully completing the workshop.

For more info visit: www.rgvcofa.org

A Family Day with artist Vincent Valdez

The Rio Grande Valley Museum in Harlingen presents:

"A Family Day with Vincent"

Saturday, May 14th 
  12-4 pm

Rio Grande Valley Museum
499 Loop at the corner of Boxwood & Raintree
Across the loop from TSTC (Texas State Technical College)

An exhibit of exquisite, larger than life charcoal drawings by San Antonio artist Vincent Valdez chronicles the drama & excitement of a boxing match. On closer examination, the images parallel the life of Christ as seen in the Stations of the Cross. From either view, the work presents a striking look of the struggles in man's life and demonstrates the talent & insight of this outstanding young artist.

Mr. Valdez will visit the valley to meet with the community and to promote the exhibit on Saturday, May 14th in a cooperative effort between TSTC and the Rio Grande valley Museum. This event, "A Family Day with Vincent" promises to be memorable experience for all ages. 

Visitors will  have the opportunity to ride a trolley  from RGVM to TSTC and view the "Stations" exhibit. Activities at the RGVM will include a chance for young visitors to draw with the artist, who works with children in San Antonio. A film discussing Vincent's life and work will run continuously in the RGVM media theater. A reception hosted by the RGVM Association and the Narcisso Martinez Cultural center will begin at 2:00.

In addition, a bilingual comedy troupe, "Teatro Liberdad" from PSJA Liberty Middle School, will perform in the courtyard of the museum during the day. Tours of the historical houses featured at the RGVM, and an exhibit featuring the Nature of the Valley will round out the family day!

The public is invited free of charge. (Visitor may park at the RGVM parking lot and ride the trolley to TSTC from 12:00- 2:30). Reception from 2-4 pm.

The First Border Post

From the Brownsville Historical Association:

You are cordially invited to attend a reception and book signing for Mr. Carl S. Chilton's new book, Fort Brown:  The First Border Post.

Date:    Sunday, May 15, 2005  Time:  2:00 p.m.
Place:  Brownsville Heritage Museum, 1325 E. Washington Street,
Brownsville, Texas,  (956) 541-5560.

Mr. Chilton will speak about Fort Brown and will be available to sign books
Refreshments will be served. Please join us!

Books are $24.95 plus tax = $27.01  If you are a member, please ask for your discount! No purchase necessary to attend!
Feel free to call the museum Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 4:00 for more information

--

Brownsville Historical Association
1325 E. Washington St.
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 541-5560 (956) 541-5524 Fax
Museum hours: Tue-Sat. 10-4