THE ART REVIEW PART 5

I stop by the openning reception for Imagenes Studios: "Art Market" featuring artwork by local artist. Highlighting the show I thought, was the artwork of Toni Hudson who exhibited more than 20 paintings and several drawings all on the beuty of woman. Also exhibiting unfinished work or work in progress was Eduardo Ibarra famouse for unconventional artwork. Just recently Eduardos Cheeto Painting entry won the Carlos Gomez Art Educator Competition for one man show at UTB Richardson Gallery. At the "Art Market"Eduardo pushes once again with innovation and critical thinking artwork. In his lates work he modernizes the the conventional way of signing a painting by signing www.eduardo-ibarra.blogspot.com . The interactive painting subliminaly suggests to the viewer "search the signiture on the internet". The idea of bringing marketing techniques and present them as artwork I thought was very much worth mentioning.. Eduardo promises to push the limits in his upcoming one man show at University of Texas at Brownsville. Also exhibiting artwork is Lucy Quezada with a variety of ceramics and a series of colorful abstract paintings.. I encourage everyone to get out there and check out the art scene.

El Paseo Arts Foundation Call for Art

To all Rio Grande Valley artists:

CALL FOR ORIGINAL ART WORK

El Paseo Arts Foundation of the Laguna Madre is pleased to announce the arrival of the American Wind Symphony Orchestra aboard the "Point Counterpoint II,” for the start of their final tour the week of April 20th, which will end at Yale University in Connecticut later in the year. There will be a free concert during their stay in Port Isabel, and all rehearsals are open to the public. The ship also holds an art gallery which will feature pieces selected during the tour, one from each stop, for exhibit in the gallery.

One piece of art will be selected for inclusion in the ship’s gallery, and the jury for this selection will be appointed by El Paseo Arts Foundation. The purpose of this letter is to invite all interested artists to submit a work of art for inclusion in the gallery.

1. Only one piece of art from each participating artist may be submitted.

2. All media are acceptable: two- and three-dimensional work, such as paintings, photography, sculpture or ceramic.

3. Craft is not accepted.

4. Art pieces must be no larger than 4 x 8 feet framed, and must not be less than 2 x 3 feet for two-dimensional pieces, and 2 x 2 x 3 feet for three-dimensional pieces.

5. Artist must be able to manage his or her own work single-handedly. There will be limited assistance at the drop-off location.

6. Judging will be based primarily on work representative of the spirit and flavor of the Rio Grande Valley. The work chosen for this tour will be for sale until the end of the tour. If not sold, it will be returned to the artist. The ship’s gallery will receive 40% of any sale. All work in the gallery is insured.

7. The drop-off location will be the Treasures of the Gulf Museum at 305 Queen Isabella Blvd. (Hwy. 100) in Port Isabel. Parking and deliveries are at the back on Railroad St. The museum telephone is 943-7602. Delivery of art work must be made during museum hours, Monday, April 16th through Friday, the 20th. No work will be accepted before or after those dates.

8. The artists will need to remove their work immediately after a reception for artists on Sunday, April 22nd at the Museum. There will be a storage fee of $10 per day for any work not removed on time.

9. Please contact Kitty Ayers at the Purple Parrot Gallery, (956) 943-2004, drawon@aol.com, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, to register.

We hope to see your art – and thank you,


Kitty Ayers, Chair
Art Selection Committee
El Paseo Arts Foundation

"Callejon de las Calaberas"

On Saturday 3/24 after my visit to the new BMFA, I stop by to see what was going on at the Galeria 409. The dynamic "Wild Style" show was still up on display and Mark Clark working on his study (oil painting on board) that will represent and set the standard for the "Callejon de las Calaberas", a future mural project he hopes to complete with the help of local artist. The mural will run through the alley next to the galeria and will reflect on both the history of Brownsville and celebration of the dead.

Coming up at the Galeria 409 will be the work of commercial artist "Franchute":APRIL 5 to MAY5. The show will open Thursday April 5 with Reception at 6pm. You can check out the work of "Franchute" at www.franchutedeleon.com .

The Art Review Part 4

"What is art if not considered significant? The reality I have seen is that not all art is considered as art, for it is easier to misunderstand art than to take time to understand it. I am as guilty as any of this theory, but then again sometimes it takes more than a lifetime to understand art - Van Gogh art proved that theory."

I stop by the new BMFA to check out the 2007 International Art Show, in comparison I must say I thought the 2006 had a lot more spice to it, but may because the 2006 seem to have more entries. Don't get me wrong the show still had a lot to offer, 2 thumbs up, it was very well curated and installed.

My eye catchers of this show were Cris Leonard works which are 3 giant high color volume paintings of a cartoon style images of a mix of cat like animals and human like characteristics. You just can't miss Cris paintings imaginary creatures which have remain consistent in his work as far as I can recall since his Mesquite Review Profile. I got a chance to meet Cris at the 2005 Amigos Artist Art in the Park where we had a conversation on his inspiration. His application seemed also to remain the same from when I last saw his work, mix media-acrylic-oil and spray paint on canvas or plywood and or board-sometimes leaving the raw background expose. He had mentioned to me he pretty much uses anything on anything to create his works. One of Cris paintings I noted "Homage to Jorge" was priced at $1750 estmtd 4ft x 5ft acrylic on canvas, a price I think seems fair for his recognizable style and his established name as an artist in the Rio Grand Valley.

Other eye catching paintings for me were Dina Saldañas, Marylin Brown and Brian Paulsen.. Dina work which I have seen several times carry a suttle social message. In her entry she paints-3 minors sailing wildly with out a care to the distant background where she painted a deserted beach. Marilyn Browns entry I thought was very abstract and psychedelic. A swirl of color and shadow silhouette exotic flowers that seem transparent and push for double imagery into the unknown sensation of the viewer. Brians work is of the highest standards. His surrealistic, and psychological settings are well presented by his artistic skill and experience. In the drawing "Heart Warming Site" a half nude woman sits at what appears to be a hospital hallway. Her arms are raised and pierce into a heart which is connected to the electrical socket on the wall behind her. Gotta see more of this artist.....

There was an entry large size metal sculpture of a still life "fly" I thaught was of notice .

Last but not least I like to mention that I did think there was too many ribbons...in sense that for the amount of entries I think the judging should of been kept not by media category but by the the show as a whole.

Imagenes Call for Artists

BHA Gallery Talk on Women's Exhibit

Brownsville—The Brownsville Heritage Complex in historic downtown Brownsville, invites the public to a Gallery Talk on the second annual women’s exhibit, Between Myth and Reality: The Image of Women , in celebration of Women’s History Month. The Gallery Talk will be on Tuesday, March 27, 2007 at 11 a.m. at the Brownsville Heritage Complex.

The Gallery Talk will be included in the cost of admission to the Brownsville Heritage Complex: Free to BHA members, $4 for non-members. During the talk, participants will explore the contributions of women in art and culture. A discussion of the works featured in the exhibit, Between Myth and Reality: The Image of Women will be presented.

For more information please call 956-541-5560 or email info@brownsvillehistory.

Curator of Archives and Special Collections, Jessica Villescaz will lead the Gallery Talk. She is a Valley native completing her M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Anthropology at the University of Texas-Pan American.

Ms. Villescaz was curator of this year’s women’s exhibit, in honor of Women’s History month.

Brownsville Historical Association
1325 E. WashingtonBrownsville, TX 78520
(956)541-5560
www.brownsvillehistory.org

*Pictured artwork by Celina Hinojosa, artist whose work will be featured during gallery talk among other work by local female artists such as Nancy Schlight, Jessica Monroe, Celeste de Luna and more!

Check out WildStyle before it's Gone!

More Online Valley Art to Check Out!

Recently, I've learned of more online sites dedicated to local art and culture and highly encourage you to check them out and put them on your browser's favorite list.

Check out posts about local art and events by Mike Moody, editor of the soon to be launched V247 arts and entertainment online magazine. Read up on local events and Gallery 409's "Wild Style" art show:

http://valleywire.freedomblogging.com/

Thanks Mike for your continued support for local arts and entertainment!

Also, check out this aerosol stencil by The Art of Brownsville blogger Gabriel Treviño, currently on display at Gallery 409! I really like this piece!

Also check out the NikFix Webzine of South Texas at http://www.nikfix.com/. This is a very comprehensive site dedicated to our local skateboarding, roller blading, riding, art, photography and music scenes. Awesome site NikFixers!

The V247 Artist Profiles

TAOB Note: Keep an eye out for the launch of TheV247.com from The Valley Morning Star. The V will be the online source for entertainment news and views in the Rio Grande Valley. For now, check here for updates on the site's progress and area events at their MySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/thev247

If I had a time machine

So what would you do if you had a time machine? Something very noble or great in scope, such as preventing a war or tragedy, or would you go back to your past and rectify something you regret? As for me, what would I do? I would go back in time to visit meetings where bad decisions were made! Such as the meeting where Dell computer engineers thought that a slanted USB port would be a very cool thing...(not when you are bent over on the floor on your knees, blindly trying to shove your jump drive into the computer.) Or the meeting where the project planners of the Highway 77 construction/expansion decided to complete it in one whole phase rather than in sections (because waiting 15-25 minutes at every major Brownsville intersection simply trying to get across the highway from one side of town to the other is my preferred way to spend my time. Oh, and I just love the feeling of concrete barricades being 1-2 ft away from both sides of my car as I travel down a one-lane highway with some tailgater pushing me to do 70mph in a 55 mph zone.) I can already imagine myself going into some conference room going..."Nooooooooo, your making a bad decision!".

But the reality is, I don't have a time machine and until someone invents a working flux capacitor, I will continue to avoid crossing into North Brownsville until it is very necessary to do so and I will continue to seek computer monitors with the USB port on the side. However, beyond my sarcasm and humor, I am pretty serious about the way the highway construction being executed. Asides its inconvenience, some aspects of the construction are dangerous and the handling of the traffic flow could be better managed. (And you think with all this going on, people would talk less on their cell phones while driving!)

But the reality is, Brownsville is growing (have you seen the way houses are mushrooming all over the perimeters of the city?), and growth doesn't come without its pains. So while our leaders and developers concern themselves with the growth of our city, this Brownsville resident has one thing she wants to say: "Don't forget the rest of Brownsville!"

We need more restaurants, shopping and entertainment options in the older parts of town because being stalled at one traffic light for 15 minutes to go see a movie or to eat a tasty Italian meal is getting plain ridiculous. I miss the days when Brownsville had three movie theatres and had two malls. Options are what make consumers happy! So please get creative and think outside the box my Brownsville leaders and developers! And by thinking creatively, think of different approaches to stimulating economic development other than building one strip mall after another. Because while development is great, I would hate to see a mom and pop café get bulldozed to make room for a McDonald’s. Such cities like San Antonio, Austin, St. Petersburg have benefited and capitalized on the renovation and redevelopment of the older sections of their city, by empowering local businesses and focusing on their to local heritage and culture, all which has brought a sense of pride and identity to their residents. Brownsville is an incredibly unique and special city and should be treated as such during this economic and population boom. So I encourage everyone, and not just our leaders and developers to come back to our roots and to think of our older sections of town just as much as they think about the newer ones.

Arts Advocacy and Activism Part 1: Interview with TCA's Mia Andrade Buentello

The Art of Brownsville will be bringing posts in the next few weeks that focus on arts advocacy and activism. Part 1 is an interview with Mia Marisol Buentello-Andrade, Administrator of Community Development and Rural Services with Texas Commission on the Arts. Mia also manages the Texas Commission on the Arts Rio Grande Valley Satellite Office and has probably logged hundreds, if not thousands of miles in car mileage towards fullfilling her mission to assist in the development of the arts and culture all across South Texas. The Art of Brownsville asked Mia some questions about her work and thoughts on local arts and arts advocacy and here is her response.

What is the mission of Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) and the satellite office it established in the Rio Grande Valley? The mission of the TCA is to "create a receptive climate for the arts in Texas.." The main objectives for the RGV Office are to: increase awareness of the value of the arts and ensure that underserved communities have equitable access to the agency's programs and services. Provide technical assistance to arts and cultural organizations, educational institutions, and other units of government in underserved Texas counties including the South Texas border region.

What kind of services or programs does TCA and its RGV Satellite Office offer and who can access these services? Our services include providing assistance with the grant application process as well as compliance, and providing information and referrals to the public and local artists on TCA’s programs such as grant opportunities and other sources of funding for the arts. Nonprofit art and cultural organizations, entities of government, schools and colleges are also eligible for most of TCA's grant programs. Individual artists are able to seek opportunities listed on TCAnet, http://www.arts.state.tx.us/, as well as search information for funding sources, professional development, as well as information on employment opportunities. Our website has thousands of links from arts education to arts advocacy. TCA has made available a wonderful resource called, "Tools for Results Toolkit”. This toolkit offers how-to’s and templates on various topics such as Marketing, Fundraising, Exhibit Planning...and it is available for free.

As Administrator of Community Development & Rural Services for TCA, what are some projects or initiatives are you currently working on? What are some projects or groups you have worked with in the past and what impact did you observe that it had on their community? One of the initiatives is the quarterly ARTSMeet that I coordinate and the goal is to convene local arts administrators, arts advocates, and artists to encourage networking opportunities. A workshop is presented during this meeting in topics that the arts community deems important to their success. The topics have included: Marketing on a Shoestring Budget and Strategic Planning for Nonprofit Arts Organizations. More are to come, but will most likely be scheduled in the Summer. The initial ARTSMeet was successful in that a representation of the major arts organization across the RGV was present. During this initial meeting a dialogue was encouraged to get an idea of what the needs were. Of course, money is always the top resource; but there is much more that arts organizations could benefit from, mainly professional and organizational development.

What initially inspired you to pursue the work you do now and what keeps you motivated to continue your advocacy and activism for the arts and culture communities of the Rio Grande Valley? When I attend a local art exhibition, a performance, reading...I am inspired by the artists' passion to create and to witness those who attend these programs become aware of the depth of the talent that exists in the RGV. Many things motivate me in my work. My main motivation comes from building a working relationship with local arts organizations and artists that will lead to positive results such as assisting an organization through TCA's grants process or providing a local artist with information and resources that will help him or her find more success. My belief is that, if properly developed, the arts in the RGV can have a positive impact on our economy, education, and quality of life.

What are some things you wish members of the arts and culture communities in the Rio Grande Valley knew more about? What are some things you would like to see come from these communities? When I first started working at TCA, I learned so much from my travels to other cities and states, mainly learning about successful arts programs. This was my best education yet! However, there is a wealth of information on the internet and I encourage people to learn as much as possible from other communities that have successful arts programs. Collaborative efforts between arts organizations benefit our community and we need to encourage that. Become active participants. Learn why the arts should matter, it goes beyond a quality of life issue.

What advice do you have for anyone reading this blog who has an interest to become active in the local arts and culture scene? From your observation, what skills or knowledge have proven to improve an artist's or cultural activist's chance for success? My advice for becoming active in the local arts and cultural scene is to: 1.) Understand why the arts are important. 2.) Learn who's in your community, museums, theatres, arts festivals, etc. 3.) Learn about advocacy. An arts advocate does not necessarily have to be an artist. To be successful as an arts advocate means that you have taken the time to learn why the arts are important to the fabric of your community and conveying that to local leaders. Successful advocates have a plan and a common vision and have an ability to create dialogue.

What vision do you have for the future of art and culture in the Rio Grande Valley? What potential do you think it has? My vision is that non profit arts organizations will be able to expand their programs even more, especially to our schools. Artists will have venues to exhibit and a market to sell locally and that the arts will be an important part of our community. There is so much potential, but it begins one step at a time.

Thank you Mia for your time and we especially want to thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to our local arts and culture. Readers, we hope that you will learn more about the services and resources Texas Commission on the Arts offers and especially, take advantage of them. Please stay tuned to the second part of this series on Arts Advocacy and Activism.

Mia Andrade-Buentello can be contacted at 956.682.5336 * TOLL FREE 1.800.252.9415* mia@arts.state.tx.us .

Creative Conversations in Port Isabel

Do you have a passion for art and culture and want to voice ideas and opinions on how to make them more promiment in our local comminities? Then attend the Creative Conversations in Port Isabel tomorrow at 6pm. (read below for more info). You will learn a lot and have an opportunity to network and meet people from the arts fields or who have a passion for art and culture!

**************************************
Museums of Port Isabel
317 E. Railroad Ave. Port Isabel, Texas 78578 (956) 943-7602 http://www.portisabelmuseums.com/

For Immediate Release
Creative Conversation to be held in Port Isabel

Museums of Port Isabel and Cameron County Creative Alliance Connect Art Leaders to Make Dynamic Difference in Community Port Isabel, Texas—The Museums of Port Isabel, located at 317 E. Railroad Ave. in downtown Port Isabel, and Cameron County Creative Alliance, are partnering to host an Emerging Art Leaders creative conversation (cc) in Port Isabel, Texas.

Creative conversations bring together local emerging arts leaders to discuss challenges specific to their age group and experience and issues regarding the arts in their communities. Port Isabel's creative conversation will take place on Thursday, March 15, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. at the Treasures of the Gulf Museum.

After the creative conversation, attendees can network and mingle while enjoying the Museum's exhibits and displays at the Museums of Port Isabel and Port Isabel Historical Museum.

Creative conversations are free and open to all arts professionals with an interest in emerging leader issues.

The Treasures of the Gulf Museum is located at 317 E. Railroad Ave. South of Highway 100 on Tarnava Street across from the Port Isabel Lighthouse.

For more information please call Edward Meza at (956) 943-7602 or email at director@portisabelmuseums.com.

Gallery 409 "WILD STYLE" Exhibition and Opening

WILD STYLE
Art Show
at Gallery 409

Opening: Thursday, March 1st, 6:00pm
409 East. 13th St.
Brownsville, Texas
Free Admission!

Art to view: Tats, graff, sk8, surf, kartunz, jail art, sprary, choppaz y mas!

with music by Anything Goes

BHC's "History, Herstory and Heritage" this Saturday

Harlingen Creative Conversations this Thursday

What: Harlingen/San Benito Creative Conversation

Where: 115 E. Jackson Street, Harlingen,Tx

When: March 1, 2007 6:00 pm

D'Arte Center and Cameron County Creative Alliance Connect Art Leaders to Make Dynamic Difference in Community

Harlingen, Texas--D'Arte Center, located at 115 E. Jackson Street in downtown Harlingen, and Cameron County Creative Alliance, are partnering to host an Emerging Art Leaders creative conversation (cc) in Harlingen, Texas.

Creative conversations bring together local emerging arts leaders to discuss challenges specific to their age group and experience and issues regarding the arts in their communities. Harlingen & San Benito’s creative conversation will take place on Thursday, March 1, 2007 at 6:00 p.m.

After the creative conversation, attendees can network and mingle while enjoying the art displayed at D'Arte Center. Creative conversations are free and open to all arts professionals with an interest in emerging leader issues.

******TAOB Note: This is a follow-up to the Brownsville Creative Conversations held in October. This creative conversations is geared towards artists and arts professionals in the Harlingen/San Benito/La Feria metro area but all arts professionals and/or emerging arts leaders from Cameron County and the Rio Grande Valley are invited to attend. If you are looking for a forum to express your thoughts and opinions on the state of the arts in your community, then this is the meeting for you! A Creative Conversations for the Port Isabel/South Padre Island metro area will be held on March 15th and the Port Isabel Museums. More info to be provided soon.

UTB/TSC Vagina Monologues

The Art Review Part 3

Social Abstract Surrealist, Carlos Gomez is a true master of his own art. In his latest show " The hair of the Dog", a series of large size paintings clearly reflects his SAS style which he has remain true to for more than several years now on several of his art shows. His quality of work is high in definition, a combination of both his experience and talent. His choice of color, blend, contrast, space, light and shadow all balance the viewer at any distance to his chosen eye view, which may imply in some paintings his play at optical art. In this series, out door and desert like atmospheres, a passing cloud, a radiant sun or source of light, that doubles as a giant cooked egg, a set of rocks, a horse, a baboon, a man and his loyal companion the dog, to me all seem to questions the viewers thoughts of solidarity and or entrapment.. I also think the art is open for interpretation in the same sense we interpret dreams or ones views on life. In that sense it has the capacity to speak and questions the thoughts of a large audience without it ever adapting to the idea of it being simple decorative art.

Charro Days 2007 is here!

It's that time of year again! When the sight of Charros and China Poblanas walking along 7th street towards Washington Park is not an odd sight and Elizabeth Street is once again the scene of activity in Brownsville, Texas. What am I talking about, you say? Well, I am talking about Charro Days ofcourse!

If you are not from Brownsville, we highly encourage you to experience the events and activities occuring during this 3-day event being helf Feb. 22-24. (Though celebrating begins way ahead.)

To see a list of events and activities, please visit the following links:

http://www.charrodaysfiesta.com/

http://www.sombrerofestival.com/

Also, Matamoros simultaneously celebrates their Fiestas Mexicanas, so the fiesta is happening there too! For more information on our sister city, click here.

"The Hair of the Dog" A Two Man Show at UTB

The Hair of the Dog: A Two Man Show
by Carlos G. Gómez and Bret Lefler

Richardson Art Gallery
The University of Texas at Brownsville

80 Fort Brown

Brownsville, Texas

February 20 to March 8
Opening Reception: Tuesday, February 20th, 7pm

Gallery Hours: Monday thru Thursday 10:30am to 7pm
Admission $3.00

Student semester passes available for $5.00

TAOB Note: The Richardson Gallery is located in the attic of The Art Building at the original Fort Brown site of the UTB Campus, located between the Gymnasium and the Old Morgue and Gorgas Hall. (See pic below). Please go and support the UTB art community! To learn more about events at the Richardson Gallery and the UTB/TSC Art Department, click here.

The Art Review 2 1/2

Many thanks all TAOB readers for the comments, and feedback on "The Art Review Part 2", I see they are still on going. I can't wait to post The Art Review Part 3". The picture I have added to this post is a pastel, ink and marker drawing on paper I did recently. The work depicts a young girl focusing out into space, as if ignoring the viewer. Thick bold lines crudely drawn, overlapping and transparent to the smaller images. This artwork is open for interpretation as is all my other artwork..

Call for Artists from: New York, New York

Call for artist from: New York , New York

Local artist from Brownsville, Port Isabel, Matamoros to Harlingen and McAllen, aswell as all the other beutiful cities in the Rio Grand Valley and surrounding area, all you die hard artist out there wanting to give the New York audience a shot check out the following info.

Visit: www.agora-gallery.com for online application and more information.
Agora Gallery's 22nd Annual Juried Exhibition
The 2007 Chelsea International Fine Art Competition

*Exhibition - 15-20 Artists will participate in a collective exhibition at Agora Gallery 530 West 25th Street, Chelsea, New York City Exhibition - August 11 to August 31, 2007 Artist Reception - August 16, 2007

Contact Information:
Tel 212-226-4151
Fax 212-966-4380
Email info@agora-gallery.com
Gallery Hours
Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 6pm

Located in the heart of the Chelsea Fine Art District. Agora Gallery is a couple of blocks away from the also famous Mary Boone Gallery.

The competition is open to all visual artists 18 years or older working in any media with the exception of video art, film and performance art. The exhibition will take place in Chelsea , New York City. Agora Gallery will be donating it's share from all artwork sales to UNICEF - please visit http://www.unicef.org to learn more about the organization and how it is helping to improve the lives of children all over the world.

Juror: Tina Kukielski

Awards:
Cash - $1000 will be awarded to three (3) artists each receiving $500, $ 300 & $200 respectively
Internet Promotion - Six (6) artists will be awarded placement of 6 images on www.Art-Mine.com for a period of one year
Review by an art critic - One (1) artist will be awarded a one-page review with two (2) color images in ARTisSpectrum Magazine

Competition Calendar:
February 7th - Competition opens
March 8th - Submission deadline
April 15th - Results will be announced

Entry Fees: • Online submissions - $35 for up to 5 images, $5 for each additional image.

Commission structure on work sold:
The gallery's commission structure is 70/30, the artist receives 70% of the List/Retail price and the gallery receives 30% of the List/Retail price.
See website for more info.

"360° Love Exhibition" by Anahi Navarro at Tre Fratelli

From artist and photographer Anahi Navarro:

"I feel truly blessed to have the opportunity to do what I love, I feel blessed that you believe in me and trust me to capture those special moments.After so much work my new exhibit is finally here ! This time is all about love and the people we love.So for a very special month, a very special show for all of you... 360° Love is dedicated to you guys!

You are cordially invited to the opening reception given by Tre Fratelli.Some details:Thursday February 8th, 2007Opening 4:30-6:30pm.Location: Tre Fratelli (next to Circuit City) in Brownsville, TxExhibit will run through March 3rd, 2007.

For additional info call 956.266.1344 or email mailto:anahi@anahiphotoart.comWe'll be hanging out until late, the idea is for you to relax and enjoy the exhibit :) Can't wait! Hope to see you guys there!"

***********
TOAB Note: I hope that you may be able to attend Anahi's opening at Tre Fratelli or be able to see it sometime during it's exhibition. To me, her photography speaks of a great talent to capture special qualities in her subjects and scenes by utlizing great scope in composition, set-up, lighting and color, and just basically making her subjects comfortable enough so that Anahi is able to bring out the best in them. (In other words, I am saying I think her work is good). Above you will see an example of her work (funny that I would pick the shoes)...but if you wish to see more visit her website at http://www.anahiphotoart.com.

"Mixed Media Re-Mixed"

"Mixed Media Re-Mixed" art exhibiton at the Richardson Gallery at The University of Texas at Brownsville. The show will be on display through February 15, 2007. Don't miss the chance to see this great show!

Con Mi Gente's Coverage on Gallery 409

Click on the link below to watch Channel 5's "Con Mi Gente con Rick Diaz" news story on Brownsville's Gallery 409. Gallery 409 owner Mark Clark and artists Cande Aguilar and Oscar Alvarez were interviewed.

CLICK HERE to see Channel 5 news story on Gallery 409

Personal Note: I am so pleased to see Brownsville artists and a Brownsville art venue receive valley-wide television media attention. There are so many treasures in our city and the more often that they can be shared with people outside of Brownsville, the better! Thank you Rick Diaz and Channel 5 for your support!

I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE ? CONTEMPORARY STREET ART

Art by: EEKO_2K@hotmail.com

Location: Rockwell St. Brownsville Texas
If anyone out there has any pictures of contemporary street art, graffiti art, stencil, unusual: stickers or artistic urban visuals send them in so I can post. Email: brownsvilleartform@yahoo.com

The Art Review Part 2

"The Art of Living with Art" was I thought a great title for an exhibition that featured a small series of artwork by Eduardo Ibarra. In Eduardo's most standout art yet: a series of un stretched stand alone primed canvas, painted with the coloring of a bundle of flaming hot cheetos which were glued on to the canvas imitating vibrant strokes that resemble no image but evoke feeling and thought. The work is also signed flamboyantly below with oversize bold stick on letters across the canvas. To me this work is clever and a clear representation of art imitating art. This work truly challenges the viewer perspective as to what art is and what history and time has allowed it to be. The work is almost a parody of modern art and the myth movement of the end of the 2oth century artist in desperate attempt for their 15 minutes of fame. A movement that Eduardo might characterize as Egotism.

Gallery 409 "Wildstyle" Call for Art

Gallery 409 announces a Call for Art for its upcoming
"WILDSTYLE" urban art exhibition

Top quality art of the following kind is requested:

Surfboard painting
Skateboard art
Lowrider bicycle art

Entries from artists from the Rio Grande Valley and Tamaulipas Frontera region are preferred. For more information contact Gallery 409 owner Mark Clark at (956) 455-3599 or via email at markclark812@yahoo.com or galeria409@yahoo.com.

The Art Review

Cande Aguilar is a great modern artist. His paintings are both simple, complex and truly challenge the viewers thoughts. His expressive scribbling and neon presence slashed apart on over commercialized images, pasted and overlapping discarded materials displayed in a large size choice, to me clearly suggests that he is not afraid of the freedom of his artistic neo-expressionism. I can't say I truly understand the messages in his paintings if and when there is any as it may only be deciphered by the artist but I can say I am comfortable with them the way I am comfortable with a magazine on a coffee table , the cartoons on TV or a business signs piercing the sky next to the express way. His paintings also reflect the freedom of thought in a sense or idea of a painting not entrapping the viewer on a single image but to let the viewer wonder about.


Oscar Alvarez is in my opinion a great surrealist painter. His paintings are almost all consistent of a dream world that seems to question the viewer of its existence. Some of the images reflect a life of some animal human sort consuming or wanting to consume other life. The earthly tones and dreamlike haze to multiple overlapping imagery is cleverly compose and well balanced. Oscar is not a large scale painter and in a sense doesn't need to be, his style and technique will make the viewer feel a part of the world he has created....

Gallery 409 Opening Tonight: Oscar Alvarez and Cande Aguilar

Gallery 409
Two Man Show: Cande Aguilar and Oscar Alvarez
Reception & Opening
Thursday, January 18th 2007
6pm-9pm
409 East 13th street
Gallery 409 is located between Levee and ELizabeth street, one block from the Gateway Bridge.

The Brownsville Art Scene to Kick OFF 2007

On January the 18 and 19 the Brownsville Art Scene will kick off the year with three great art exhibition openings. On Thursday the 18th check out new artwork by Oscar Alvarez and Cande Aguilar at the Galeria 409. Opening reception for this exhibition will be held (6pm to 9pm) at the Galeria located 409 (East 13th st.) downtown Brownsville.

On Friday two openings back to back : Imagenes Arts Studio @ The Paseo Plaza will hold The Art of Living with Art, an exhibit of artwork by local artist, including the artwork of Lucy Quezada "a great up and coming artist who has done several murals in Brownsville including: the Greyhound Terminal Wall ", from Jan. 19 through 21. There will be a cheese and wine reception at 7 p.m. on Jan. 19, 2007. This event is free to the public. For more information, call (956) 574-0088.

Also the New Mick Reber exhibit at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art. The artwork of Mick Reber will be featured in a one-man show at 6 p.m., Jan. 19 at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art. Reber’s work has appeared in Art in America, Art News, Art Week, and other publications. He exhibits extensively throughout the U.S. and was one of 20 sculptors selected for the National Sculpture Traveling Exhibition across major U.S. museums and he is listed in “Who’s Who in American Art.”For more information contact the museum at (956) 542-0941.

Many thanks for to the Brownsville Herald for its publication these great events. From what I have heard from the Brownsville art scene the support is greatly appriciated.

No limits...and The end of 2006

"I am a big believer of the idea that art should have no limits and should exist with or without museums or galleries. The purpose of making art should be greater than where it is to be exhibited.
If art sells and you feel a success because it pays the bills or buys things, there should be nothing wrong with that, a plumber, carpenter or doctor will feel the same way for the work has served its purpose for its success."

A cold early morning, a day before new years eve I put my hands in my pocket as I stood proudly in front of my artwork at the 77 Pulga . I didn't expect a heavy flow of people but I felt compelled to be there one more time before the new years. Joe Saldana the front man for The Livends an already legendary band in the underground punk scene took time to chit chat. Turns out that Joe is also a painter and UTB fine arts graduate. Joe commented how Carlos Gomez :Chicano painter, professor and curator is his mentor and big inspiration to his art. During our talk I notice the flow of people began to increase. Joe went off with his business in search of old records and nostalgia, but before he left I told Joe I wanted to post an artist interview on TAOB blog. He agreed and exchange contact info and set a date for the near future.

Among the passers by, a gentleman by the name of Humberto Jimenez stop by to say hello. He said to be from Monterrey and a friend of Daniel Maldonado and had seen my artwork before which he commented that he liked. He also mentioned how he had currently finished several paintings and was in Brownsville to talk to Dr. R. Montalvo a great supporter of the Arts. In our conversation he mention how he had exhibited with Ray Smith "an artist just recently in exhibition at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts. It was nice to talk to him for he had plenty to say. As we talked crowd gathered again to check out my artwork. I had already sold a few drawings and had two great conversation I thought it had already been a good day.

A little later local artist and art teacher Eduardo Ibarra passed by with a quick stop to say hello. It was almost noon and I was already thinking about closing shop but it was kind of too early. A couple of more people stop by some of which had baught art from me before. They were interesting in aquiring one or two more. I was flattered and truly honored to have already a following.

As I waited for a pickup of my last sale, I was approach by a crowd. It was Marisela Cortez Executive Director of the Historic Brownsville Museum with family and freinds. She told me she had heard about me selling my artwork at the pulga . She looked delighted and please to talk for a good while. She mention how Cliff had recently visited for his plans to do a photo realistic painting of her. Cliff, an artist with plans to do a series of several photo realistic portraits of local art aficionados. It was a good conversation of the local art scene and and upcoming events. Before she left one of the person she with , a young girl, baught a painting acrylic on canvas titled: el padre, el hijo, el espirito santo which she said was a great painting a a bargain for the price. I left shortly after that thinking it had been a good year..........

Gabriel Treviño

This Friday: McAllen ArtWalk

TAOB NOTE: Douglas Clark Sculpture Studio (located at 700 N. Main Street in McAllen) is looking for musicians (acoustic) and any other performance artists (dance) who are interested in performing in his studio during the first Friday monthly Art Walks in McAllen. If interested in performing, please contact Virginia Haynie Gause (vgause@rgv.rr.com) – 956-358-3915 or call Douglas Clark’s answering machine at the studio at 956-682-9893. http://www.douglasclarkart.com/gallery.htm

D'Arte Center Benjamin Varela Exhibit

Who: “Varela: A Second Life” Art Exhibit/Reception
When: Reception: Saturday, January 6, 2007, 5:30-7:00 pm, exhibit will run throughout January.
Where: D’Arte Center at 115 E. Jackson in Harlingen, Tx.
Contact: Celeste De Luna @ litebluna@yahoo.com or (956)454-1809

D’Arte Center is pleased to announce the opening of a new art exhibit titled “A Second Life” by artist Benjamín P. Varela. Varela was born in Brooklyn, New York and lived and made his art in Wisconsin, Chicago, and currently in South Texas. In 1980s Chicago he was a member of the respected Mexican Printmaking Workshop during which he made large abstract prints (monotypes). Varela’s prints are in the collections at the Bronx Museum and The Museum of South Texas in Corpus Christi. He is affiliated with the Narciso Martinez Cultural Center in San Benito and co-curated the exhibit “Graphico Popular En Chicago” in June 2006. In 1999 he received his BFA in Kingsville and his MFA from UTPA Edinburgh in 2005. He is also a member of the Harlingen Art Forum and teaches art at UTPA and STC.

Varela is well known regionally for his unmistakable style of painting, using dots and patterns depicting a personal iconography based on his life and memories. Flying turtles,
“casitas” with faces, checkered horses, the sun, and moon are all part of Varela’s harmonious opera of imagery. The artist states “The mind produces images of our experiences, which gives energy to create the ideas in visual form. This is what I call the power of the image.”

An interesting aspect to this exhibit is the artist’s connection to Harlingen. Bill De Brooke, local Harlingen community leader and art collector has the largest collection of Varela’s work, a total of about 20pieces. DeBrooke will be lending D’Arte Center part of his collection for this exhibit. A reception will be held with artist January 6, 2007 from 5:30-7:00pm at D’Arte Center (115 E. Jackson St.) This will be followed by Varela giving a lecture on his work on January 22, 2006 at D’Arte Center at 6:30pm.

TAOB Note: Harlingen will be hosting its fourth artwalk on January 6, 2007 from 4:00-6:00 pm after Jackson Street Market Days. People can expect to see walk to 12 locations to see art, have refreshments, as well as a live band on the street.

D' Arte Center at 115 East Jacson will have maps to the Artwalk locations. Please contact Artwalk organizer Celeste De Luna at litebluna@yahoo.com or (956) 454-1809 for more information.

The Art of Living With Art: Call for Artists and Show

Meet Brownsville Artist Jose Martinez

TAOB: Tell us about yourself: where you are from and what your profession is.
Jose Martinez: My name is Jose H. Martinez and I have lived in Brownsville most of my life. I have been involved in education since I finished college in 1984.  I received a music degree from the University of Corpus Christi and worked as a band director at St. Joseph Academy for five years.  I have also been a classroom teacher at St. Mary's School, Burns Elementary and The Teen Learning Community. I have been an assistant principal for the last five years, four of those years at R.L. Martin Elementary and for the last year I have been an assistant principal at Gladys Porter High School.
 
TAOB: How long have you been painting, do you have any formal training or are you mostly self taught?
Jose Martinez: I have been interested in art all of my life but have never received any formal training.  Everything that I do, whether in woodwork or painting mediums, is self taught.  Whenever we travel, I always make it a point to visit any art galleries we can find.  I particularly enjoy visiting contemporary art exhibits.

TAOB: You are a great supporter of the arts and are in attendance at almost every local art exhibition. How do you feel about the Brownsville art scene?
Jose Martinez: During the last few years, I see more and more art activities being scheduled in Brownsville and I think that it is very exciting.  I think that we have so much talent here locally and am happy to see that more venues are being provided for local artists to exhibit their work.  I am particularly very happy with the new location of the Museum of Fine Arts on 6th Street.
 
TAOB: Where have you exhibited your artwork and how often do you get to exhibit?
Jose Martinez: I have exhibited some of my paintings at the International Art Show at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts, at the Amigos Artistas art exhibit and at the shows hosted by local artist Toni Hudson at Imagenes Art Studio. My main reason for not exhibiting more often is my lack of time.  I am usually very busy with work at school and with my involvement at St. Mary's Church.  I am also a licensed massage therapist in the state of Texas and that also keeps me very busy.
 
TAOB: Where do you paint and how do you go about executing a painting?
Jose Martinez: I am always working on a painting or two but it usually takes me from several weeks to several months to finish.  I only work on them when I have a bit of extra time and that doesn't happen very often.  I do most of my work during Christmas break, spring break or during the summer months. 

I don't have any particular place where I work at home.  Sometimes I set up in the dining room, or in the family room depending on the size of canvas I am using.  I don't think that I have developed any particular style but lately, I have been experimenting with abstract painting.  Faces and bodies have always come easy for me to paint and draw and it is very difficult for me to place paint on a canvas without trying to make it look like something or someone.
 
TAOB: Do you have a favorite artist, local or historical, that you identify yourself or your artwork with? And if so, why?
Jose Martinez: I don't have any particular favorite artist.  I enjoy looking at the work of many different artists but, like I said before, lately I really enjoy looking at the work by any of the modern artists.
 
TAOB: Are you currently working or making arrangements to participate in any art exhibitions in the near future?
Jose Martinez: I don't have any plans on exhibiting in the near future but, hopefully, with the work of organizations such as Amigos Artistas and The Art of Brownsville and with the opening of more venues, it will become easier for local artists to exhibit.
 
TAOB: Please elaborate more on the painting in the photo that is posted above.
Jose Martinez: The painting in the photo is entitled "Skin" and it's a 50"X 60" oil on canvas.  What I mean to say through the painting is that we pay so much attention to what we see on the outside of a person, but that beauty is only skin deep.  Ultimately, what matters is what is in the inside and the spiritual side of who we are.
 
The painting in the photo with me standing in front of it holding a candle is a 40"X 60' oil painting entitled "Beginnings".  The painting is now owned by Stefan Schmidt in Bavaria, Germany. The candle I am holding is the paschal candle for our church.  Every year I make and decorate the candle that will be used at the church during our Easter celebration.  It is also a candle that is used during funerals and baptisms at the church.

TAOB: Mr. Martinez, thank you for your interview and for your support of the Brownsville art scene. We wish you much success on your artistic journey and are happy to provide insight about you as an individual and as an artist to our blog readers. Many thanks once again!


Readers, Brownsville artist Jose Martinez can be contacted via email at Eljoeconsafos@aol.com.

Interview by Gabriel Treviño.

Gallery 409 Small Works Exhibition Opening

TAOB Note: Go meet local RGV artists as well as see TAOB team member Gabriel Treviño's work on display!

Guadalupe 2006 at NMCAC in San Benito

TAOB Note: Attend this one folks! The center is a gem and you'll always learn something new when you go El Narciso, or as many fondly refer to as "El Chicho".

It doesn't feel like Brownsville, BUT IT IS

"It doesn’t feel like Brownsville", is the comment I received from various people at The Art of Brownsville Mixer at Gallery 409 this past Saturday. The atmosphere that evening was elating as folks enjoyed the eclectic sights and sounds. For one thing, Gallery 409 is an impressive space with its historical and architectural presence. The view of the downtown Brownsville skyline from the 2nd floor is also probably one of the best views in Brownsville. There was also a show by Chicano artist Paul Valadez on the 1st floor and a photography exhibition by Robin Dru Germany and Karen Sanders on the 2nd floor. Guests also got to enjoy conjunto music by accordionist and artist Cande Aguilar and punk and rock music by local bands The Winos and ANYthing Goes.

Perhaps we may have channeled the hip and trendy Manhattan atmosphere or the underground and bohemian culture of the Austin art scene, or perhaps we may have channeled what we have always been, Brownsville! It may not feel like Brownsville, but pinch yourself again, because I assure you it is!

Gone are the days of moping that Brownsville doesn’t have this or doesn’t have that, yes, yes…if you work and/or live in Brownsville, then at some point (and probably various times) you have found yourself in frustration over limited resources. I am not saying that we already have everything we need, because we don’t...but what I am saying is that we should stop moping or pointing fingers, put our egos aside, and get things moving and wisely use the resources we already have to create more opportunities and bring more into and out of our community! (Phew! Did you get all that?).

I may sound like a broken record, but I truly and passionately believe that Brownsville’s strongest resources are its arts, culture and people. And yet, we don’t maximize on them! We have a rich history, and yet we have a neglected downtown with so many buildings (too many abandoned and left to decay) craving for renovation and the vigor of their former lives. We have so many talented people, yet few venues for them to exhibit their talents. We live in a multi-cultural and international area of constant cultural exchange and commerce and yet, we have low retention and academic performance rates in our schools and one of the lowest per capita income rates in the nation. Sometimes I fear, that what we deem as weaknesses should be viewed as strengths or opportunities.

The days of moping are over, because we are obviously a different Brownsville from the Brownsville of 10 years ago and even the Brownsville of 5 years ago. The Arts and Culture scene has grown tremendously. We now have the new and beautiful Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, the Children’s Museum of Brownsville, the Costumes of America Museum, the Historic Brownsville Museum, the Brownsville Heritage Complex, four Art Galleries (Richardson, Breeden, Imagenes and Gallery 409) the Camille Playhouse Theatre, great Fine Arts and Entertainment programs at UTB/TSC and BISD, the Latin Jazz and Cine Sol Festivals, more entertainment venues in town, and just so much more….

Our options and opportunities have increased and with the Cultural Mitte District initiative coming into fruition, I am eager to see more eyes turn back to our roots, to Downtown Brownsville! To see the El Jardin Hotel and the Capital Theatre alive and thriving once more! To see parking garages erected to help ease the parking situation. To see families at Washington Park and the upcoming Linear Park, walking, having picnics, to see children playing. To see more buildings renovated and turned into businesses, into offices, into homes, into hip apartments or lofts, into schools, into more galleries and museums…into whatever great potential downtown Brownsville has…and trust me, it has a lot! If you don’t believe me, just refer to the response by the Art of Brownsville mixer guests, “It doesn’t feel like Brownsville”.

Whatever it felt like, it felt good. And trust me, that feeling was Brownsville. Let’s make Brownsville shine, its beautiful art and culture and its people!

Above Art: "Browntown", 2006, Oil on Canvas by Cande Aguilar. View Cande's artwork on display at Tre Fratelli Italian Restaurant for the month of December. 3001 Pablo Kisel Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78526, (956) 574-9888

Fashion and Art Show with ELY GUERRA in concert

BMFA Ribbon Cutting and Open House

UTB Senior Art Show

MANY MANY THANKS!

TAOB wishes to extend our sincerest gratitude to all those who contributed to and attended our Third Anniversary Mixer at Gallery 409 last night. This event was TAOB's first official event coordinated as a group and we are very happy with its success!

Special Thanks go to:

Mark Clark and Gallery 409

Our musical acts:

Cande Aguilar
(watch Cande perform at The Valley Choice Awards this Wed., Dec 6th at The Dodge Arena)
The Winos
(visit band member Arnie G's website by clicking here)
ANYthing Goes
(watch and cheer on ANYthing Goes at the S.P.I. Christmas Rockfest Battle of the Bands)

The Brownsville Herald

And to all of our food and wine donors!

Pictures will be posted soon! Meanwhile, please check out an article about The Art of Brownsville by Brownsville Herald Life and Arts editor and writer Mike Moody. (also check out Mike’s blog Gold Teeth.)

Click here to read The Herald’s TAOB article: Bloggers Support Local Art Scene

A Most Recent Loss in our Community

JUAN RAMIREZ GARCIA

Juan Ramirez Garcia, known as a beloved father, teacher, and ardent supporter of the arts, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2006, at the age of 61.

He is survived by his father Jesus Garcia, Sr., of Kingsville, Texas, his daughter Nora Michelle (Miki) Garcia of Santa Barbara, Calif., his son, John Michael Garcia of Brownsville, his sisters and brother, Mary (Don) Nicholas, Jesus (Sylvia) Garcia, Jr., Elena (Eliseo) Comino Cuellar, all of Kingsville, Texas and Margarita (Baldomero) Alvarado of Mathis, Texas. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Garcia, originally from Kingsville, Texas, graduated with a Master’s Degree in Art with a Minor in Education in 1977 and later received a Professional Life Principal Certificate in 1980. He served in the U.S. Army from 1970-1971.

Most recently, Mr. Garcia served as the Specialist for Fine Arts for the Brownsville Independent School District since 1992. Previous to that Mr. Garcia touched many students’ lives through his 23-year teaching career at elementary, middle school and high school levels, particularly as the Department Head of Art at Pace High School. Since 1984, Mr. Garcia had been a respected Instructor of Art Education at the University of Texas, Brownsville.

Locally, as well as nationally, Mr. Garcia was a passionate advocate of arts education in public schools. He was an active member of the National and Texas Art Education Association as the Regional Representative, garnering numerous honors such as Outstanding Art Educator/Supervision (1997). He was a member, juror, panel member, and/or advisor to the Rio Art Association, Texas Educational Theater Association, Association of Texas Professional Educators, Texas Education Agency for Assignment to the Fine Arts Essential Knowledge and Skills Clarification Team, and Texas Commission on the Arts Education Advisory Panel, among others.

Here in Brownsville, Mr. Garcia was actively involved in the Brownsville Art League, Brownsville Childrens’ Museum, Odyssey of the Mind, Destination Imagination, and a valued Board Trustee of Amigos Artistas, the non-profit arts organization which promotes the visual arts (with an emphasis on Latino and Latin American art) and involves youth in artistic endeavors.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Amigos Artistas at 1424 W. Price Road, No. 227, Brownsville, TX, 78520 (info@amigosartistas.org).

See the BISD Memorial Page by clicking here.

Art Education and You

El Taller de Frida
Originally uploaded by artofbrownsville.

On November 1st, I went to a Day of the Dead art exhibit opening by El Taller de Frida, a Matamoros and Brownsville based art school for young children. I was so outstanded by the creativity and the overall work by these young artists who painted skeletons in scenes or portraits of significance to the child. For example, some skeletons were portrayed as ballerinas, princesses, and baseball players. In the picture, you will see El Taller de Frida art student Beatriz Rodriguez standing next to her painting with a skeleton painting in a garden, a scene that references a special family memory. The exhibit was also well excecuted and impressively displayed and I was so happy for the children who received an opportunity to be recognized for their talent and work by their family, friends and the public.

The exhibit was a great experience, yet my favorite thing about the exhibit was the that I took my niece and nephew with me. Albeit, they are at the young ages of almost-two and four, I wanted to take them with me to begin exposing them to art. It's never too early to expose your children to the arts and even better, to encourage them to participate, be it in the visual or performing arts. Overall my niece and nephew had a good time and we also had an opportunity to play in the museum and spend quality time together.

This may not be on the minds of all parents or families, but making art an intregal part of a child's life will set an valuable impression on their development. Here are some facts about art education as provided by Americans for the Arts:

Did You Know?

Young people who participate in the arts for at least three hours on three days each week through at least one full year are:

4 times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement
3 times more likely to be elected to class office within their schools
4 times more likely to participate in a math and science fair
3 times more likely to win an award for school attendance
4 times more likely to win an award for writing an essay or poem

Young artists, as compared with their peers, are likely to:

Attend music, art, and dance classes nearly three times as frequently
Participate in youth groups nearly four times as frequently
Read for pleasure nearly twice as often
Perform community service more than four times as often

Still not convinced? Take a look at these Art, Ask for More Campaign ads:
Ad #1, Ad #2, Ad #3, Ad #4(español)

I am also happy with the attention and support Art Education has been receiving in our community. Such as The Herald's recent coverage of the UTB/TSC student art show and of the St. Mary's and Stillman Middle School students who won at state-level art competitions. At the Brownsville Museum of Art you will also find a gallery soley dedicated to exhibiting children's art. There are also more art classes available to children through the museum or through schools like El Taller de Frida and other private and home-based teaching initiatives. We can also count on our public and private school art teachers to bring art education to our children in school, if not in the classroom, then by displays in the hallways and after-school art clubs.

Yet like all things of value, their appreciation begins at home and most importantly with you. What are you doing to bring art to the children in your life? Art is more than just extra-curricular or extra "fun" activities. A society that makes art an intregal part of their way of life makes for a much richer culture. Same goes for people. People who make room for art in their life most likely are more well-rounded individuals with open minds to the world around them. Many children in Brownsville do not have opportunities to travel outside the Valley or visit museums very often. By bringing art into their lives, you bring the world to them, a way to express their individuality and to grow confidence. So next time you hear about an art exhibit, a play, a musical event or any cultural event, take the kids. You won't regret it and your children will greatly benefit from it.

Matamoros Artist Mario Jimenez Diaz

Artist Mario Diaz
Originally uploaded by artofbrownsville.

T.A.O.B entrevista Mario Jiménez Díaz, pintor actualmente radicado en Matamoros, con dos exposiciones en la ciudad de Brownsville, una de manera colectiva en la galería "409E" y otra individual en el restaurant "Tre Fratelli"-(inauguración sera el prox. 16 de Nov de 4:30 a 6:30 pm).

*Cuéntanos que te inspira a pintar?
El motivo de mi pintura son los recuerdos; desde pequeño siempre me gusto poner mucha atención en el ambiente que me rodeaba para registrar todo en mi mente y no olvidar los detalles de momentos importantes, por lo tanto creo que somos el resultado o la consecuencia de esos momentos y de sus recuerdos.
En mis pinturas plasmo momentos cruciales en mi vida así como el de otras personas cercanas; imágenes algunas mas claras o nítidas que otras pero saturadas de color y de elementos que agregamos a lo largo de los años y que originalmente nunca estuvieron presentes.
Eso, mas la fuerza y el impacto que los colores causan al espectador.

*Que educación formal tienes en las artes o has aprendido solo?
Obtuve mi título profesional como Licenciado en Artes Visuales con especialidad en Producción audiovisual y fotografía en la Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León en el año de 1998.
Originalmente el proyecto estaba enfocado a la fotografía y video experimental pero por azares del destino lleve el proyecto a pintura, obteniendo las bases de alumnos y egresados de la misma carrera para posteriormente aprender a base de pruebas y errores, y de mucha insistencia en lograr mis objetivos.

*Tienes una exhibición en Galería 409 y una Tre Fratelli, cuéntanos un poco sobre obras de arte que preparaste para estas dos funciones y si fue difícil en cuestiones de los requisitos que las galerías te hayan pedido?
En el caso de la exposición “Passers By” en la Galería 409E, un grupo de artistas y yo trabajos en conjuntos y formamos el colectivo “La Azotea”. Después de concretar el tema (el fenómenos de la migración hacia los EUA específicamente en la frontera Matamoros – Brownsville) y las características de la exposición, platicamos con el dueño de la galería, Mark Clark, quien nos dio completa libertad para generar la obra, ya que conocía nuestro trabajo previo.
En el caso de la exposición “Inside looking out” en Tre Frattelli, estoy exponiendo de manera individual algunas de mis pinturas realizadas del 2003 a la fecha.
En ambos casos hubo total disposición y apoyo por parte de los responsables lo cual confirma mi idea de que espacios donde exponer siempre existen, es cuestión de uno como artista buscarlos y ofrecer su trabajo.

*Cuando abrió la exposición "PASSERS BY" en 409 te gusto el ambiente de la Inauguración y si miras o sientes que hay un gran interés en el publico?
Desafortunadamente el día de la inauguración llovió mucho por lo cual notamos una baja afluencia de visitantes pero posteriormente platicando con Mark me comento que ha tenido un gran número de visitantes. Creo que con la apertura de espacios culturales las personas están cada vez mas interesadas ya que se puede ofrecer mayor propuestas artísticas para los diferentes tipos de públicos y esto también tiene como consecuencia que los artistas tengamos cada vez que prepáranos mas y ofrecer un mejor trabajo en busca de la aceptación de los espectadores.

* Que pintor famoso viviendo o en la historia te identificas tu mas con y porque?
Actualmente estoy muy influenciado por un grupo de artistas, músicos y pintores que radican en la ciudad de Monterrey, México y que traen unas propuestas muy interesantes llenas de reflexión a los tiempos que nos toco vivir pero también con un sentido del humor muy especial, como son el caso de Jorge Najera, Ismael Merla, Ernesto Falcón, etc.
Pero al pintor que mas admiro y que considero que es uno de los pintores mas importantes de nuestra época es el pintor austriaco Gottfried Helnwein (www.helnwein.com) entren a su página y verán porque.

*Cuando pintas, pintas en privado o compartes tus ideas con alguien?
Dado a que siempre e pintado por las noches, por lo general pinto solo, salvo algunas ocasiones en las que me acompaña mi esposa; de esa manera me concentro mejor ya que me distraigo muy fácilmente. En cuanto a la planeación de los proyectos siempre e sido muy abierto con las personas que me rodean; muchos de ellos conocen cuales son mis siguientes proyectos y constantemente ayudan a aterrizar muchas de las ideas.
Creo que mientras mas receptivo se predisponga uno a estar a los estímulos exteriores, será mayor la información con la que contemos para poder traducirla y poder generar productos artísticos de calidad.

* Que precio o valor personal les das a tus obras, o de que forma les mides el nivel de su importancia?
En mi caso el precio de las obras es directamente proporcional al grado de diversión que obtuve al realizar la pieza. Se escucha medio extraño pero es la verdad, mientras el lazo afectivo sea mas fuerte con la pintura, mayor será su precio. Y el valor afectivo se debe a múltiples razones como pueden ser el grado de reto que me represento, el estado de animo que tuve durante la producción, mi situación afectiva, hasta lo bien o mal que me haya caído la comida, las cervezas o los cigarros mientras pintaba cada uno de mis cuadros.

*Que te gusto o te dio interés de The Art Of Brownsville BLOG ?
A principios de año, recién regresando a mi ciudad natal Matamoros después de 14 años de vivir en Monterrey me puse a investigar en Internet espacios en la ciudad de Brownsville donde pudiera exponer mis pinturas, así encontré el sitio TAOB y me ha servido muchísimo para conocer el ambiente artístico y cultural de Brownsville y mantenerme actualizado de los eventos de esa ciudad.
La verdad, viviendo en Monterrey, pensé que no había tantos espacios ni artistas en Brownsville como ahora me doy cuenta existen y esto gracias a la información que encuentro en TAOB.

Saludos cordiales desde Matamoros y espero contar con su asistencia el proximo 16 de Nov. a las 4:30 en Tre Fratelli.

State of Art

Word is, a sort of Renaissance is in the works in Brownsville. If people are talking like this, great! But this concept is nothing new. It's been on the hearts and minds of many people and, it's already in progression. If you look at the Italian Renaissance, it's beginnings were in the guilds, where simple craftsmen, masons and carpenters were empowered creatively to enhance their surroundings and thus enhance the quality of life and bring Italy out of the Dark Ages! Ofcourse, they had benefactors such as the church and private commissioners who knew how to harness the power of art to influence people. Today this would be called Marketing. And don't you find some interesting similarities between the rise of interest in our local architecture, history and culture and a similar interest by renaissance Italians to revive neo-classical elements in their architecture and culture?

Ofcourse today, we are not in 15th century Italy and artists have more resources and options available to them. An artist does not have to hope for a Lorenzo de' Medici to scoop them under his wings. (Though, wouldn't that be nice?) An artist can have two art agents, be represented by three or five galleries and work on commissions for various benefactors and not just one. Though, what artists are limited by are by the number of locations they can pursue such a career. New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and in closer proximity Houston and Mexico City come to mind when considering such locations.

So my question is, can Brownsville become the place to support artists and their careers? Or are local artists fated to continue their art as an after-five pursuit until our city can develop into a busy urban metropolis like Houston or San Antonio?

Personally, I think we don't have to wait. Look at how small towns like Marfa, Texas and San Miguel de Allende have been able to develop into thriving artist colonies where people travel from all over the world to be inspired. Isn't that the initial pull to art in the first place, a desire to be inspired and to be creative? If we keep our goals on that simple notion, we will realize that Brownsville is not such a dry well after all and that we already have the resources to develop our Florence. Mostly, we just need the drive and ganas to make it happen!

Day of the Dead Art Exhibit at Children's Museum

The New BMFA Grand Opening

The Art of Brownsville extends the warmest of congratulations to The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art for the Grand Opening of their new 17,000 sq. ft facility in downtown Brownsville! Be assured that we and all artists in our community and friends outside the community are proud of this exciting development in Brownsville and in our region!

We also want to extend our sincerest gratitude to the Browsville Museum of Fine Art staff, board and supporters for all their work in bringing to fruitation this wonderful dream, which has been accomplished through years of hard work, dedication and a lot of heart!

Congratulations once again and many times over and we look forward to the many more exciting developments that will come from your museum ahead!

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Readers: The Brownsville Museum of Art will be open to the public Sunday, October 22nd from 1pm-5pm, free of charge! Please visit, bring family and friends and get a first hand look at the new facility and the exhibits such as the world premiere of "Ray Smith: The Painting of Territory". The new BMFA is located in downtown Brownsville at the intersection of 7th and Ringgold Street, adjacent to the Gladys Porter Zoo. The best route is to take the 6th street exit going south on US77.

Local Art Scene, now the land of opportunity

Ever hear the old saying, "well you have to leave the valley to get recognized as an artist"? Is that actually true and to what extent? Brownsville and the rest of the RGV now has several museums, galleries, festivals, organizations and media that support the arts (see TAOB links and calender). Why would any artist want to go anywhere else? It is now up to the artists to take advantage of the resources Brownsville and the rest of RGV has to offer.

Musicians, not to be set apart from visual artists, from garage band acts to Classical or Conjuto, also now have a variety of bars, nightclubs and festivals to play or perform their music. Musicians should feel welcomed to play at art exhibitions. The mixture of music and art is the best combination you can possibly have.

Get started. Now artists also have the power of the mighty Blog and My Space. Artists can simply load there artwork into these cyber spaces and make their artwork available to the Brownsville Local Art scene and to the rest of the world. Visit one of our two Brownsville's' public libraries in case you don't have access to the Internet..

Ever hear the old saying, "el que no ariesga no gana"?

-Gabriel Treviño

New Member of TAOB Team

Hello Folks,
Please give a warm welcome to The Art of Brownsville's newest team member Gabriel Treviño. Gabriel is one of Brownsville's most active artists and recently exhibited at UTB/TSC's Four Emerging Artists Exhibit. He also has a blog of his own which can be visited by clicking here. You can also find Gabriel on most Sundays at the 77 Flea Market bringing his art to the masses. Below you will find Gabriel's first post. Keep an eye out for more posts and developments for the blog! -Mayra

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TAOB always on the Rise!

Hello readers of TAOB, its a real honor to be allowed with the privilege of being a new contributing writer to TAOB. The local art scene is definitely on the rise. There is so many art happenings going around, listing them is already a challenge. My goal is to assist Mayra as much as I can in her efforts and contributions to the local art scene managing this great blog she has created for all of us. I feel I share the same goals and dreams like so many of you of wanting to enrich the community with a thriving art scene we all can enjoy and share.

I want to begin by reviving the interest in creative conversations in this blog by talks of our culture, critics, feed back on local artist artwork whether performing artist or visual artist, feed back on what we may need in our community to expand our art scene, share conversations with artist, if you went to an art happening share your story , tell us about what you saw, what you liked, what you didn't like,tell us if you felt the prices of the art was too high or too low or if you thought it was a fare price, tell us if you saw a musician or talked to a poet, what did you think and why,tell us about your art teacher or professor and if they have inspired you to continue in the arts, and if you are a teacher or professor in the visual or performing arts tell us what inspired you to go teach the arts, remember TAOB readers ideas may be the best contributions and or donations too. "Submit your ideas, feedback, story on comments icon below."

Here is one of my stories:
One of my inspirations in the arts is Carlos G. Gomez MFA , Artist , professor at the UTB. I was inspired by his accomplishments as an artist. Just looking at his resume for me was inspiring by setting a high standard. At first glance when I began painting I knew I had a long way to go, but yet through his accomplishments I was inspired of how far an artist can reach. Although I may never reach his level of accomplishment I have definitely been ispired to try...

Gabriel Treviño

Creative Conversations

EMERGING ARTS LEADERS
CREATIVE CONVERSATIONS

WHEN: Thursday, October 5th, 2006
WHERE:
The Brownsville Heritage Complex
1325 East Washington Street
Brownsville, Texas
TIME: 6:30 pm
INFO: (956) 541-5560 or info@brownsvillehistory.org
REGISTER: http://www.AmericansfortheArts.org/sc/creativeconversations


Hosted by the Brownsville Heritage Complex, the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center and the Cameron County Creative Alliance in partnership with Americans for the Arts

BMFA Call for Volunteers

The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art will be celebrating the the grand opening of their new facility. They need members to help greet the public on Sunday, October 22nd from 1pm-5pm. If you can help us for two hours or four hours, please email Marilyn Brown ASAP. Thanks Folks!

UPDATE: Empty Bowls Event by Food Bank of RGV

Participating Artists: If you wish to be included in the homage to the contributing artists (see picture example), please turn in your donated art, art bio & a photo to Alicia Nevárez-Warner by Oct. 9. Alicia can be contacted at 956-227-2884 or aliciaw@foodbankrgv.com

****INFO ABOUT EMPTY BOWLS EVENT****

The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley is looking for help in Cameron County. As a non-profit that serves Cameron, Hidalgo, Willacy and Starr County, The Food Bank would like to extend a partnership where joint efforts can produce major results for the hungry in our community.

Empty Bowls (www.emptybowls.net) with its unique showcase of local cuisine and art is slated for October 19 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.. This season, University of Texas Brownsville President Dr. Juliet Garcia has offered to host this spectacular event at Jacob Brown Auditorium.

It is such a simple idea, but it builds partnerships, community and helps feed the hungry. Local students and artists create and donate small cereal-size bowls (usually ceramic and useable for eating--but most media is welcome). Larger bowls and art pieces have been used for a silent auction in the past. Local chefs, restaurants and food distributors donate a simple meal of soup, salad, drinks and dessert. Tickets are sold and guests enjoy a meal with many choices of soup, salad and dessert entrées to sample. The highlight of the event is that each ticket is good for one selection of an amazing array of original art, a bowl that will remind each person that there are always Empty Bowls in the Rio Grande Valley.

Like most non-profits, the Food Bank is limited on staff and help. We also know we will need help from community members who care about meeting the basic needs of the hungry in our Valley. Committee members are sought to help with all aspects of this event. The event benefits the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley, Inc.

Imagenes Art Studio "Autumn Art" Exhibit

What:
Imagenes Art Studio & Paseo Plaza presents
"Autumn Art" Fine Art Exhibit - FREE TO THE PUBLIC
"Come and enjoy new art by new artists in all medias from around the
Valley."

When:
Wine & Cheese Reception - Friday, October 20th, 7-9 p.m. Meet the artists!
Exhibit dates: October 20th - October 22nd

Where:
Paseo Plaza Shopping Center
1805 E. Ruben Torres Blvd
Brownsville, TX 78526
Call: 956-574-0088 - For More Information

How: Artists may sign up online at www.imagenesstudio.com and click on call for
artists to fill out the rsvp form. Also view our quaterly art exhibit video
photo presentation on the same page. Deadline for artists is Friday, October 13th