500 San Agustín

2007-06-07T20:39:00.000-07:00

JOIN US!
Friday, June 15 from 6 - 8 PM for our monthly Friday Happening!

The Laredo Center for the Arts invites the community to Laredo's very own Friday Happening on June 15, from 6 to 8 p.m. The evening will feature an Artist Reception, VOZ poetry reading, musical performance by Ambient Jazz Duo, and a special recognition honoring TexasTwo-Dimensional Artist Janet Eager Krueger.

Janet Eager Krueger was selected as the State of Texas 2008 Two-Dimensional Artist for her years ofexcellence and dedicated commitment to the arts in Texas. The LaredoCenter for the Arts will take this opportunity to congratulate JanetKrueger for all her efforts in continually supporting the local arts. Janet Eager Krueger's work is rooted in both theme and palette in South Texas. Her imagery includes the people and animals of the BrushCountry going about their business through the droughty, forbidden terrain, the small towns and border culture. Her take on the myth ofTexas resonates with love, humor, and a sense of mission: it is a witnessing of a world apart, and an attempt to reveal the universal nature of that myth. Her work is in many private and corporatecollections, including: the ATT Center, the Kronkosky CharitableFoundation, the Laredo National Bank, Texas A&M InternationalUniversity, the University of Texas at San Antonio, USAA, USAA Life, and Valero Energy. Krueger is also a founder and President of the Board of Directors of the non-profit organization Hecho en Encinal.

On exhibit, in the Goodman Gallery will be "Kindred Spirits" by mixed media artist Maureen T. Cole. Ms. Cole will be exhibiting twenty-two pieces that represent the image of home and the world as sacred treasures. To create her work, the artist uses simple everyday objects from nature like a child might find while walking across a parking lot such as a rock or a stick. These objects or treasures create the surface of Cole's work. Wood, grout, cement, and gesso are then used as adhesives for these objects that are often set apart from each other in niches, creating a sacred space. Jewel-like colored acrylics are then incorporated into the painting to express the artist's reverence and respect for the environment. The artist holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in drawing from Texas Tech University and a Master of Fine Arts from Texas Woman's University. She has exhibited extensively throughout Texas in solo, group and juried exhibitions.

The Lilia G. Martinez Gallery presents "Wax Games" by Sandi Miot. Sandi Miot is a prize-winning encaustic artist from Northern California. Twenty-five pieces of her artwork both rich in color and abundant in texture will be on display through July 26. Her work is known and collected both nationally and internationally and has appeared on the sets of popular TV shows such as "Friends", "ER", and CSI: Miami". She has studied and worked extensively in a variety of mediums, from clay and glass to oil, pastels, and watercolor, but she especially loves the ancient mediums such as encaustic and gold leaf. In her work, Miot includes subtle varieties of surface marks that contrast each other. She uses different textures that juxtapose each other such as smooth, silky waxes and rusted, pitted metals. These juxtapositions create a sense of order and disorder; chaos and plan. The obvious contrasts of concepts in her work are both fascinating and attractive to the eye.

Pincel, taller de arte infantil, will be exhibiting thirty mixed media paintings in the Community Gallery. All the artwork on display was created by children ages 5 – 11 and explore mixed genres such as landscapes, portraits, still lifes, animals, and religious iconography. In addition to the visual arts, the event will incorporate VOZ, open-mic poetry and a musical performance by Laredo's very own, Ambient Jazz Duo. Ambient Jazz Duo is comprised of Michael Yoder on bass and Rogelio Montemayor on trumpet. The chord-less jazz duo plays Bossa Novas, Medium Swing, Ballads, and original compositions byMichael Yoder. Their noir style is set to its bare essentials and is comprised of the trumpet that carries the melody while the bass has a supporting role.

At the reception we will be serving hors d'oeuvres by Ciao Bella catering and beer and wine thanks to generous donations from L&F Distributors, IBC Bank and Time Warner Cable. Free admission. Donations are accepted. This is also an excellenttime to sign up for a new membership or renew your LCA membership!

The Laredo Center for the Arts, located downtown at 500 San AgustinAve. in the old Mercado downtown, coordinates, promotes, encouragesand supports the arts in the Laredo and South Texas area. The Center, an independent non-profit organization, receives support from private and public sources including members, the City of Laredo, the Countyof Webb and the Texas Commission on the Arts.

For more information please call (956) 725 1715 or visitwww.laredoartcenter.org for the latest updates.

2007-05-04T14:43:00.000-07:00

Friday Happenings at the Laredo Center for the Arts are happening!

Patrons get a chance to explore the artwork by reading artist and artwork statements. Photo taken on April 13, 2007. Students are viewing artwork by Judi Krew.

What is a Friday Happening?
At the Laredo Center for the Arts we use the phrase "Friday Happening" to describe the monthly Artist Reception. Friday Happenings at the Center serve as an Open House for patrons, old and new to the Center, to take a closer look at the facilities (which are open to the public Tuesday to Friday 9 am - 5 pm and Saturday 10 am - 5 pm) and to experience the everchanging facade of the art world, first hand.

Friday Happenings also allow the staff and board of directors of the Laredo Center for the Arts to continue fulfilling the mission of coordinating, promoting, encouraging, and supporting the arts in the Laredo and South Texas area.

Mariachi Internacional from TAMIU filled the galleries with a lovely and breathtaking performance on Friday, April 13, 2007.

Please join us on May 11, 2007 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm for the next Friday Happening!

2007-04-06T13:52:00.000-07:00

The Laredo Center for the Arts will close its doors Friday, April 6, and Saturday, April 7, in observance of Easter weekend. Our regular hours will resume Tuesday, April 10, 2007 at 9:00 AM.

Due to to the Easter holiday hours, the Lilia G. Martinez Internship Program application deadline has been extended to April 10, 2007. If you have any questions or concerns please send an email to Maritza Bautista, LGM Internship Program coordinator at maritza@laredoartcenter.org.

Happy Easter!

2007-03-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

2007-03-24T15:20:00.000-07:00

Saturday, March 24, 2007 from 1:00 - 3:30 PM

The Laredo Center for the Arts opened its doors today (literally) and invited the general public for the first Saturday Patio Spectacular. Activities on the patio included an Art Quilt Activity for children, music, and an information booth offering general information and a calendar of events of the Center's activities.

The Center is open and free to the public 5 days a week and admission is free. Visitors have the opportunity to view temporary, rotating exhibitions by student, up-and-coming, and professional artists in the Community Gallery, Laredo Art League Gallery, Rosalie Goodman Gallery and Lilia G. Martinez Gallery.

Children's activities are an integral part of the Center's success. It is the way we build a foundation for an appreciation for the arts in the children of the Laredo and surrounding communities.

The Center hosts temporary, rotating exhibitions in all media (2D and 3D) and display in the galleries between 4 to 7 weeks. Upcoming exhibitions include Youth Art Show (featuring the artwork by students in the Laredo Center for the Arts' outreach programs), Judi Krew (acrylic painting), Vidal M. Treviño (recent photography by journalism students), Maureen T. Cole (mixed media), Sandra Miot (encaustic), and Trautman Middle School (recent student artwork).

Monthly, the Center hosts a Friday Happening, our monthly artist reception with food and drink, that includes a VOZ Poetry Reading, a children's activity based on the artwork in the galleries, and music. Our next Friday Happening will take place Friday, April 13, 2007 from 6 to 8 PM. We hope to see you there!

For more information about the Laredo Center for the Arts please call (956) 725 1715 or send an email to info@laredoartcenter.org

Hours of Operation:
Tuesday to Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM
Saturday, 10 AM - 5 PM

2007-03-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

LILIA G. MARTINEZ INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Founded in 1993, the Laredo Center for the Arts coordinates, promotes, encourages and supports the arts for the South Texas / Laredo area. In collaboration with community groups, the Center presents a full array of exhibitions, classes, tours, performances and film. Admission is free.

Each year, the Laredo Center for the Arts will host one, nine-month internship for a college graduate and two, three-month internships for upper-level college students. The goal of the internship is to provide college students and graduates, who wish to pursue a career in the arts, the opportunity to learn and work in a dynamic museum setting. Interns will gain significant experience in one or more areas of specialization including work with outreach educational programs and temporary exhibitions.

College Graduate Internship (1 position available)
April 24 – January 25, 2008
Full Time Internship
Stipend: $10,800
Location: Laredo Center for the Arts
Required Education: B.F.A. or B.A. (Art, Studio Art, Art History or related field)
Application Deadline: April 6, 2007

Upper Level College Student Internship (2 positions available)
May 15 – August 17, 2007
Full Time Internship
Stipend: $2,700
Location: Laredo Center for the Arts
Required Education: 60 credit hours or more
Application Deadline: April 27, 2007

For more information on how to apply, please contact Maritza Bautista at (956) 725 1715 or by email at maritza@laredoartcenter.org

The Lilia G. Martinez Internship Program is supported by the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation.

2007-01-29T14:55:00.000-08:00

First Friday Happening at the Laredo Center for the Arts featuring VOZ Poets.

Laredo, Texas – January 29, 2007 -- The Laredo Center for the Arts invites the community to Laredo’s very own First Friday Happening on February 9, 6 to 8 p.m. The evening will feature an Artist Reception and VOZ Open Mic.

The Lilia G. Martinez Gallery presents “Elements from the Front Range Contemporary Quilters” a program of ExhibitsUSA, a national division of Mid-America Arts Alliance with The Texas Commission on the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts. The exhibition showcases 40 quilts which were created by internationally known Front Range contemporary quilters, one of the oldest art quilt guilds in the United States. Quilts will be on exhibit from February 3 to March 30, 2007. This project is supported by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts.

The Goodman Gallery presents “Deep Complex Complicated” a series of abstract oil paintings by Adrián Jesús Falcón. Music being the main inspiration for his paintings, the sounds and moods drive emotions to transform into an aesthetic form of art. The paintings are robust and filled with rhythm and movement. Falcón established a contemporary modern art gallery in Del Rio, Texas in 1999. He is a regional, national, and international exhibiting artist. Falcón’s artwork has been published in Gallery & Studio magazine and ARTnews magazine. His paintings will be on view until February 28, 2007.

Artwork by students from St. Augustine Elementary School will exhibit in the Community Gallery and Gloria Y. Rodriguez will exhibit her recent artwork in the Laredo Art League Gallery.

In addition to the visual arts, the event will incorporate an open mic poetry reading featuring VOZ Poets.

Admission is free.

The Laredo Center for the Arts, located at 500 San Agustin Ave. in the old Mercado downtown, coordinates, promotes, encourages and supports the arts in the Laredo and South Texas area. The Center, an independent non-profit organization, receives support from private and public sources including members, the City of Laredo, the County of Webb and the Texas Commission on the Arts.

For more information please call (956) 725 1715 or visit www.laredoartcenter.org for the latest updates.

2007-01-20T13:59:00.000-08:00

The Laredo Center for the Arts enters its fifteenth year in 2007. The Center has expanded programming in all areas including exhibitions, events, and education and hopes to continue growing this year in the areas of membership, volunteerism, and sponsorship. The Laredo Center for the Arts strives to coordinate, promote, encourage and support the arts in the Laredo and South Texas area.

EDUCATION
In the area of Education, the Center will maintain its traditional educational programming while pursuing new initiatives, some started in 2006. The education program partners with LISD in order to provide consistent TEKS based art classes to special education students. The After School Art at the Library continues an on-going partnership with the Laredo Public Library and is proud to announce sponsorship from Target stores which will allow for more supplies, exhibits, and activities for the young students.

The Center is seeking continuing sponsorship for other initiatives including:
- Exploradores de Arte at Salvador Garcia Middle School (UISD) and M.S. Ryan Elementary (LISD)
- The Laredo Center for the Arts Classroom Casita
- VOZ Literary Arts
- Exhibition Outreach & Tours
- Summer Arts Splash

Exploradores de Arte, an after-school program, provides quality art education experiences for local students. Exploradores works in partnership with the Laredo Children’s Museum, LISD and UISD. The program at Ryan elementary is currently funded by the Texas Commission on the Arts with support from LISD.

The Center’s Classroom Casita, located on the same block as the main building, hosts Saturday Art Classes. The Classroom Casita creates a flexible classroom / studio space for students of all ages to have a proper place to learn more about the visual and literary arts.

VOZ Literary Arts program begins its second year with a series of writing workshops (Feb. 1 & 8). The Center in partnership with Hecho en Encinal will provide outreach to students in Encinal for Hecho’s Prints & Poems program. VOZ will also continue its series of monthly readings, which will be scheduled during the monthly Friday Happenings at the Center. VOZ readings are a combination of open-mic literary readings and features poets, authors, and performers. It is an endeavor to find support to release a VOZ community literary journal and start a VOZ youth poetry slam team in 2007.

The Exhibition Outreach and Summer Arts Splash programs continue. Exhibition Outreach artist-instructors provide art workshops, lectures, and tours to interested patrons. The Summer Arts Splash program runs in partnership with the Laredo Public Library. The Center also partners with Laredo Parks and Recreation centers to provide field-trip tours to students who attend the Parks & Rec. summer recreation programs.

The Center continues to host Saturday Art Class for Kids (ages 6-12) three Saturdays a month during the regular school year. Two new classes, led by local artist Kimberly Walton: Advanced Visual Art Workshop for Children and Adolescents (ages 6-15) and Basic Acrylic Painting for Adults (ages 16 and up), will be offered beginning in February. The Advanced Visual Art Workshop will improve “realistic” technical drawing and painting skills while also encouraging self-expression in abstract forms. The Basic Acrylic Painting class is an ideal class for beginners or intermediate artists who want a structured approach to acrylic painting and seek to boost their confidence to paint and improve their technical skills.

EXHIBITIONS
In addition to its educational programming, the Center regularly hosts a variety of exhibitions with artwork by professional and upcoming artists in its gallery space. Included in the exhibition calendar this year is a program of ExhibitsUSA, a national division of Mid-America Arts Alliance with The Texas Commission on the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts, “Elements from the Front Range Contemporary Quilters,” one of the oldest art quilt guilds in the United States and a dazzling survey of some of the most innovative quilt work being done today. “Elements from the Front Range Contemporary Quilters” will be on view from February 6 to March 31 in the Lilia G. Martinez Gallery.

Other exhibitions include artwork by Adrian J. Falcon, Lari Gibbons, Judi Krew, Maureen T. Cole, Sandra Miot, Steve Liss, Angela Samila, students in the Center’s education programs, and members of the Laredo Art League. Our exhibition calendar will close with the presentation of our Fifteenth Annual International Juried Exhibition in which artists from all over the world are invited to participate.

For more information about the education or exhibition programming at the Laredo Center for the Arts please call (956) 725 1715 or visit www.laredoartcenter.org for the latest updates.

2007-01-16T12:37:00.000-08:00

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

This is a great opportunity for volunteer(s) to become familiar with and gain experience in a dynamic, nonprofit museum setting.

The Laredo Center for the Arts is currently seeking volunteers for the following positons:

TEMPORARY GALLERY ATTENDANT
Length of Assignment:
January 7 to April 7, 2007; needed Tuesdays through Fridays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (split shifts available)

Gallery Attendant will monitor Lilia G. Martinez Gallery during the "Elements from the Front Range Contemporary Quilters" ExhibitsUSA exhibition. He/She will greet visitors during regular viewing hours.

TEMPORARY GALLERY ASSISTANT
Length of Assignment:
January 18 to May 11, 2007; needed Tuesdays & Thursdays 12:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.

The main responsiblity of the Temporary Gallery Assistant will be to greet visitors, assist visitors in galleries, answer phone inquiries and take messages. Skills Required: Must have excellent communication skills and bilingual (English and Spanish).

For more information please contact Maritza Bautista, Gallery Coordinator
phone: (956) 725 1715
email: maritza@laredoartcenter.org

2007-01-09T14:56:00.000-08:00

THE LILIA G. MARTINEZ INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

The Laredo Center for the Arts is now accepting applications for the Lilia G. Martinez Internship Program. It is a 9 month internship position beginning March 22 for a college graduate.

Specifications:
Full Time College Graduate Internship
(March 22 to December 22, 2007)
Stipend: $10,800
Location: Laredo Center for the Arts
Required Education: B.F.A or B.A.
(Art, Studio Art, Art History, or related field)
Application Deadline: March 2, 2007

Candidates must submit resume, college transcripts, 1 letter of recommendation and a letter of interest with a focus statement (What knowledge and skills would you bring to the Center and what experiences would you like to gain? How would working at the Center benefit your long-term goals?)

Supported by the Guadalupe & Lilia Martinez Foundation

Request an application online:
Contact Maritza Bautista, Gallery Coordinator,
email maritza@laredoartcenter.org
or by phone at (956) 725 1715

Applications are also available at the Center (500 San Agustin Ave)

2007-01-04T22:08:00.000-08:00

BRUC FUGUE AT THE LAREDO CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Although the Laredo Center for the Arts will not be hosting a reception in January, stop by to check out BRUC FUGUE: MODELS by Murray and Megan McMillan. The show consists of 6 collages and will be on view in the Laredo Art League Gallery from Jan 6 - Jan 31.

Statement by Murray and Megan McMillan
Bruc Fugue is an audio and video installation that plays on the idea of a fugue,which has two disparate meanings, both psychological and musical. A dissociative fugue is a rare condition in which a person suddenly, without planning or warning, travels far from home or work and leaves behind a past life. In music, a fugue is a contrapuntal form in which a subject theme ('part' or 'voice') is introduced and then extended and developed through some number of successive imitations.

Bruc Fugue collages were created to complement the BRUC FUGUE video installation to be held at Sound Art Space from Jan 6 - Jan 31. Attend the opening at Sound on Saturday, Jan 6 from 7 - 10:00 pm for an opportunity to meet the McMillans and to experience a multifaceted installation (opening night will also include a performance component).

For detailed information about their progress and preparation for the Laredo shows visit the McMillan blog .

2006-12-15T08:38:00.000-08:00

Fourteenth Annual International Juried Exhibition

Participating Artists, Artwork & Awards:
Miguel Abugattas (San Antonio, TX)
“Form #3,” ceramics, 5 by 9 by 3 in., 2006

Michael Barringer (Lilburn, GA)
“Aurora Sapien (Migration Field),” mixed media, 30 by 20 in., 2004

Susan Case (Santa Fe, NM)
“The Reader,” found objects, paper, & cotton cord collage, 33 by 22 by 1 in., 2006

Lou Chapman (Forth Worth, TX)
“Border Parking, El Paso,” RA – 4 Holga camera print, 22 by 28 in., 2005

Diego A. Diaz (Laredo, TX)
“El Funeral de las Calacas,” acrylic on linoleum, 12 by 22 in. - Honorable Mention – 2006

Linda Frost (Santa Monica, CA)
“Lateral Vision,” giclee print, 18 by 36 in. - Honorable Mention – 2005

Robert Henry Graham (Blacksburg, VA)
“Victim of Catastrophe: The Wounded,” oil, 16 by 24 in. - Honorable Mention – 2005

Martín Guadiana Herrera (Monterrey, Nuevo León, México)
“Estampa II,” mixed media, 31 by 23 in., 2005

Dana Hargrove (Winter Park, FL)
“Hub Series 2,” acrylic on wood, 11 by 11 in., 2004

Passle Helminski (Erie, PA)
“Whisper,” fiber mobile, 15 by 14 by 10 in., 2006;
“Ascension,” mixed media mobile, 26 by 15 by 19 in. - Honorable Mention – 2006

Murray Hidary (Santa Monica, CA)
“Celeritas #3,” photographic print, 30 by 20 in., 2004

Maria Ellen Huebner (West Milwaukee, WI)
“La Familia – the woman,” mixed media photography, varies from 4 ft., 2006

Kucharski (East Bend, NC)
“Peaceable Kingdom Revisited,” mixed media, 36 by 48 in. - 2D Second Place – 2004

William LePore (Portland, OR)
“Conversations @ the White House #2,” acrylic, 12 by 12 in., 2005

Angel Olegario Luna (Yuma, AZ)
“Border Monster: Devil,” ceramics, 12 by 9 by 3 in. - 3D First Place – 2006;
“Border Monster: Spaniard Mask Man,” ceramics, 14 by 9 by 3 in., 2006

Dorothy Martin (Irving, TX)
“Souvenir Man,” watercolor, 9.5 by 11.5 in., 2005

Eileen Starr Moderbacher (Berkeley, CA)
“Gravity,” graphite, 30 by 22 in. - Honorable Mention – 2006

Gwenlyn Norton (Oak View, CA)
“Vigilant,” colored pencil, 12 by 16 in., 2005

Tony Ortega (Denver, CO)
“Speedy Saves the Days,” silkscreen on digital print, 13 by 17 in., 2006;
“Speedy and Sylvester on the Border,” silkscreen on digital print, 13 by 17 in. – Best of Show – 2006

Karen Parker (Statesville, NC)
“Systema Natura,” oil, 10 by 12 in., 2004

Nancy Parry (Ambler, PA)
“Kachina Tourists 1 & 2,” mixed media, 11 by 16 in. - 3D Second Place – 2005;
“Kachina Tourist 3,” mixed media, 18 by 4 in., 2006;
“Map of a Mighty Heart,” mixed media, 12 by 14 in., 2006

Terry Gay Puckett (San Antonio, TX)
“Dangerous Passage,” watercolor, 22 by 30 in., 2006

Kim Rootes (Spring, TX)
“Pacific Coast Quilt,” collage – folded and hung on dowel, 9.5 by 9.5 in., 2006

Mike Stephens (Corpus Christi, TX)
“Dust Bunny,” woodcut, 24 by 19 in. - Honorable Mention – 2004;
“Down the Drain,” woodcut, 24 by 30 in., 2005

Gary Sweeney (San Antonio, TX)
“Aquí Estoy,” mixed media, 30 by 31 in. - 2D First Place – 2006

Dr. Clarence Talley, Sr. (Prairie View, TX)
“Untitled,” beads on canvas, 30 by 40 in. - Honorable Mention – 2006

Jared Theis (San Marcos, TX)
“Polarity,” stained ceramics, paint & nails, 9.5 by 33.5 by 20 in. - 3D Third Place – 2006

Susan Thelwell (Hulls Cove, ME)
“Eochaidh’s Islands,” silver gelatin, 16 by 20 in., 2005

Howard Tran (Williamsport, PA)
“To-Tien #7,” mixed media, 12 by 15 by 9 in., 2006

Izel Vargas (Chapel Hill, NC)
“Nacion de Leyes,” collage and acrylic, 22 by 30 in., 2006

Felizitas Wermes (Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, México)
“Pasos del Destino,” porcelain, steel & sand, 25 by 20.5 in., 2006

J.G. Zimmerman (Brooklyn, NY)
“Untitled,” inkjet print, 45 by 30 in. - 2D Third Place - 2006

The Laredo Center for the Arts would like to thank Georgia Tambasis, juror for this year's 14th Annual International Juried Exhibition, for the difficult task of selecting and awarding the exhibition. We would also like to congratulate the artists for making this a great show!

2006-12-09T18:46:00.000-08:00

Michelle, one of the Center's contract artist leading a children's art activity during our monthly receptions.

2006-12-06T15:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from the Laredo Center for the Arts

2006-12-06T11:12:00.000-08:00

The Laredo Center for the Arts invites the community to its Crossing
Borders Open House reception on Saturday, December 9,
from 6 to 8 p.m. The evening will feature an Artist
Reception, Award Presentation for Crossing Borders,
the 14th Annual International Juried Exhibition and
our Annual Member Meeting.

2006-11-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

VOZ f. [pl.vo-ces] 1.The new monthly series of open-mic literary readings at the Laredo Center for the Arts to be held in conjunction with the opening receptions for the visual art exhibits. 2. A venue for writers in Laredo and the surrounding area to share their work with a receptive audience. (Readers are limited to 5 minutes. A sign-up list will be circulated at the beginning of each session. There will be featured readers at some sessions.)

2006-11-10T10:30:00.000-08:00

2006-10-31T12:10:00.000-08:00

Altars will be on view until Saturday, November 4, 2006.

2006-10-28T17:24:00.000-07:00

2006-10-28T12:58:00.000-07:00

The Laredo Center for the Arts annual Dia de Los Muertos Event @ the Laredo Center for the Arts. Saturday, October 28, 2006 from 1 - 7 PM. Free & Open to the Public. Altares, Arts & Crafts Booths, Food Booths, Activities for Kids, Chalk Art, Performances, and Peliculas de Muertos, the Center's very own film festival.

2006-10-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

Dia de Los Muertos

2006-10-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

The Center's Media Production Class at the Lamar Bruni Vergara Tech Rec Center.

2006-10-15T23:17:00.000-07:00

The Laredo Center for the Arts is currently accepting film submissions for its 2nd annual Peliculas de Muertos (Films of the Dead) short film fest.

Films will be screened Saturday, October 28 from 2 - 6 PM.

PELICULAS DE MUERTOS

THEME: Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) or related
DEADLINE: Saturday, October 21 by 4:30 PM
CATEGORY: Narrative, Documentary, Animation & Experimental
ENTRY FEE: Student $10; Regular $25 (Entry Free includes 1 year membership to the Laredo Center for the Arts)
- DVD format only
- Please test film before sending
- Films must be 20 minutes or shorter
- Open to anyone who wishes to enter
- Laredo Center for the Arts reserves the right to reject any film
- Entry Form available upon request

for more information contact Maritza Bautista at (956) 725 1715 or by email at maritza@laredoartcenter.org

Laredo Center for the Arts
500 San Agustin Ave
Laredo, Texas 78040
(956) 725 1715
www.laredoartcenter.org

2006-10-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

2006-10-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

Join us!

Thursday, October 19, 2006 from 6 - 8 PM for a night of Poetry & Art!

Featured in the Laredo Art Legue Gallery: artwork by Sylvia Castaneda.

"Rethinking the Print"
Professor Emeritus of the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Thomas Majeski, will be doing a Gallery Talk during the Opening Reception. Majeski has been exhibiting his work since 1968 nationally and internationally. Solo shows include Norfolk Art Center in Nebraska as well as the Centrum Frans Masereel in Kasterlee, Belgium. Majeski's artwork, "Rethinking the Print" (mixed media: monotype, relief, collage on board) will be featured in the Laredo Center for the Arts' Goodman Gallery from October 5 - November 18, 2006.

Ashland 147 by Thomas Majeski, collage monotype

2006-10-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

TO REQUEST AN ENTRY FORM FOR THE 2ND ANNUAL PELÍCULAS DE MUERTOS: SHORT FILM FESTIVAL SEND EMAIL TO info@laredoarcenter.org OR VISIT THE LAREDO CENTER FOR THE ARTS!

We look forward to your participation!

2006-09-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

JOIN US! Saturday, October 28 from 1 - 7 PM
DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS event
Doors Open at 12 PM

GUIDELINES & DEADLINES
For Reservation or Entry Forms Email info@laredoartcenter.org

PERFORMANCE
Individuals & groups are invited to perform!
- All types of performing arts are welcome: theater, dance, music, performance art & poetry reading
- Performances should be family friendly & should be no longer than 30 minutes
- RSVP; space & time is limited
- Performances will take place outside the Laredo Center for the Arts on a stage at 500 Flores
- Laredo Center for the Arts will approve all performances

CHALK ART
THEME: Tradition – Community & Family
SIZE OF AREA: 3 ft X 3 ft
SUGGESTED DONATION: General $25; Schools $10
- RSVP; space is limited
- Drawings will begin Saturday, October 28 at 11 AM
- Chalk Art will be on display Saturday, October 28 to Saturday, November 4

ARTS & CRAFTS BOOTH
RESERVATION: Individual $20; Commercial $100
DEADLINE: Thursday, October 26 by 7 PM
- Booth consists of 1 table & 2 chairs
- Set-up Saturday, October 28 at 11 AM
- All proceeds go to vendor

FOOD BOOTH
RESERVATION: $100
DEADLINE: Thursday, October 26 by 7 PM
- LCA provides electricity
- All proceeds go to vendor
- Must have own health permit
- Set-up Saturday, October 28 at 11 AM

ALTARES

THEME: Tradition – Community & Family
SIZE OF AREA: 7 ft by 7 ft
SUGGESTED DONATION: $15
RESTRICTIONS: No exposed flames (candles may be lit inside glass containers) & no lit candles may be left unattended. No staples / nails in walls.
RESERVATION DEADLINE: Friday, October 20 by 4 PM
SET-UP: Thursday, October 26 (9 AM to 8 PM) & Friday, October 27 (9 AM to 5 PM)
PRESENTATION: Saturday, October 28 (12 Noon to 6 PM)*
EXHIBIT: Tuesday, October 31 to Saturday, November 4; Open to the public during our regular business hours
*Please indicate on the reservation form if you would like to speak during the presentation; Presentation time is limited.

PELÍCULAS DE MUERTOS
THEME: Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) or related
DEADLINE: Saturday, October 21 by 4:30 PM
CATEGORY: Narrative, Documentary, Animation & Experimental
ENTRY FEE: Student $10; Regular $25 (Entry Free includes 1 year membership to the Laredo Center for the Arts)
- DVD format only
- Please test film before sending
- Films must be 20 minutes or shorter
- Open to anyone who wishes to enter
- Laredo Center for the Arts reserves the right to reject any film
- Entry Form available upon request

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION EMAIL info@laredoartcenter.org OR CALL (956) 725 1715

2006-09-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

2006-09-26T08:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from our Opening Reception which took place Thursday, September 14 from 6 - 8 PM.

Miki Rodriguez explains her technique to a group of students. Rodriguez's work will be on display in the Goodman Gallery until Saturday, September 30.

To the right you can see Felizitas Wermes talking to some friends who traveled from Monterrey, NL Mexico to view her show.

"Sui Generis", collage paintings by Reuben Njaa, and "Songs of the Earth," sculptural ceramics by Felizitas Wermes, will be on exhibit in the Lilia G. Martinez Gallery until October 13, 2006.

Reuben Njaa talks to some of his students from Texas A&M International University.

2006-09-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

To learn more about our Educational Programs, please call (956) 725 1715.

2006-09-12T11:13:00.000-07:00

JOIN US THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 from 6 - 8 PM for our OPENING RECEPTION!!!

Laredo, Texas – September 2, 2006- The Laredo Center for the Arts invites the community to an evening of art and poetry for an opening reception Thursday, September 14th from 6 to 8 pm.

The Lilia G. Martinez Gallery presents a joint show featuring Reuben Njaa and Felizitas Wermes. Reuben Njaa who teaches photography at TAMIU, will be presenting a series of collage paintings titled “Sui Generis”. His work is inspired by the rich textures and surfaces of buildings and the “poster plastered graffiti covered walls.” Njaa’s work contains found objects that he calls “Junk Art.”

The Gallery also presents “Songs of the Earth”, a series of sculptural ceramics by Felizitas Wermes. Born in Munster, Germany Wermes currently resides in Mexico. Wermes’ work is inspired by the mountains of northern Mexico. Committed to painting, printmaking, and sculpture, Wermes has exhibited work before in the Laredo Center for the Arts and was recognized for 3D work in the 2005 International Juried Exhibition: Crossing Borders.

The Goodman Gallery presents “Residue” by local artist Miki Rodriguez who currently teaches art at San Agustin High School. Rodriguez has an MFA from Maryland Institute College of Art. Her exhibit includes the “Pond Series” which are six paintings that are recordings of Rodriguez’s surroundings. Rodriguez has been recognized in many galleries and won 1st prize for 2D in the Laredo Center for the Arts 2004 International Juried Exhibition.

In addition to the visual arts, the event will incorporate a VOZ poetry reading featuring poet Favian a local poet inspired by beat poetry.

The Laredo Center for the Arts located at 500 San Agustin in the old Mercado downtown coordinates, promotes, encourages and supports the arts in Laredo/South Texas. The Center, an independent non-profit organization receives support from private and public sources including members, the City of Laredo, County of Webb and the Texas Commission on the Arts.

For more information call (956)725-1715

2006-09-06T14:31:00.000-07:00

Join us for our September Opening!

Goodman Gallery
Artwork by local artist Miki Rodriguez.
You can view her show titled "Residue" until September 30.

Pond 2: Judgment, Oil on Canvas

Lilia G. Martinez Gallery
Joint show featuring collage paintings by Reuben Njaa and ceramics by Felizitas Wermes.

Reuben Njaa's series of collage paintings, titled "Sui Generis," will be on view until October 13.
Telic, Collage Painting

Felizitas Wermes' series' of works are titled "Songs of the Earth" and will be on view until October 13.
Sprout 2, hand-built clay forms, terra sigillata, burnished and reduction-fired

2006-08-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from the Memorial Benefit we hosted to honor the life and work by Chicano poet Trinidad Sanchez Jr. Friends and family of Trinidad gathered on Friday, August 25 to share their memories and tell the stories of how Trinidad inspired and encouraged their creativity.

He was an inspiration for many!

We at the Center, although we knew him for a very short time, are glad we were able to meet him.

VIVA TRINO!

Jesse G. Herrera

Randy Koch

Raquel Valles-Senties

Ernest Bevins

Lucinda Farrokh

Trino's Compadre, Pancho Mendoza

Regina, Trinidad's wife, shared memories, stories... but also told us about the things Trino believed in. She is grateful to her friends for all their support.

The following books can be purchased at our Gift Shop.
"Compartiendo De La Nada"
"Authentic Chicano Food is Hot! c/s"
"Why Am I So Brown?"
"Poems by Father and Son"

2006-08-23T10:43:00.000-07:00

BY TRICIA CORTEZ
LAREDO MORNING TIMES
8/23/06

To honor the memory and warm, generous spirit of Chicano poet Trinidad Sanchez Jr., the Laredo Center for the Arts will hold a special tribute this Friday at 6 p.m.“Viva Trino!” is free and open to the public, and is being organized by local poet Jesse G. Herrera and Chris Navarro of the arts center. People are encouraged to sign up and read a poem by Sanchez or one of their own.

Sanchez, a native of Pontiac, Mich., died July 30 in San Antonio at the age of 63.

He is best known for his bilingual poem and book, “Why Am I So Brown?” but perhaps he will be most remembered for his tireless visits to classrooms and writer groups where he passed on his love of poetry, peace, justice and Chicano culture.

“He’s a hero, a Chicano hero,” Herrera said of his close friend and mentor. “He had principles and was a decent man. He was very proud of being Mexican-American without being pushy or forcing it on you.”

Sanchez’s poetry, Navarro said, was able “to reach the common people, the working-class people, and those who are brown that wonder why am I brown.”

His last poetry performance was in June at the Laredo Center for the Arts for its monthly “Voz!” poetry readings, Navarro said.

Dora Flores, Laredo ISD teacher and co-founder of the South Texas Writing Project, said Sanchez always had a “warm, positive energy that made it a pleasure to be around him.”

He was humble and down-to-earth, and was “accessible. He was not one of those ivory tower poets,” she said.

When she first heard him read “Why Am I So Brown?” many years ago, Flores said she thought more Mexican-American youngsters needed to read and hear the poem.

“A lot of our kids have issues with their color and their race,” she said. “At the same time, many are ahistorical and know very little about their roots.

“If we don’t know who we are or where we came from, then how can we understand our situation on many levels, economically and politically?” Flores asked. “It feels like you’re living in a void. That’s why Chicano poets, like Sanchez, are so important.”

Randy Koch, a writer and director of the Writing Center at Texas A&M International University, said Sanchez “was warm and congenial.”

“Overall, he will probably be considered a minor poet, and I don’t think his poetry will be a lasting literary accomplishment, but the primary thing his poetry did is that it encouraged people to say something about their lives and who they were,” Koch said.

Koch, who met Sanchez several years ago at a poetry reading at Raquel Valle Senties’ home, later invited Sanchez to the Voices in the Montes writers series at TAMIU in 2005.

Students responded to Sanchez’s words and his poetry performances with “very strong emotions,” he said.

Talking to students and taking young artists under his wing were among his primary loves.

“It probably contributed to the financial problems he ran into in the end, but he cared about giving back in that way,” Koch said. “He was doing what he loved.”

Sanchez suffered from two major strokes before he died. He had no health insurance, and his medical bill reached $600,000. All donations at the Friday event will be turned over to his wife, Regina, who is expected to attend.

“I try not to think that he’s dead,” Herrera, the poet, said. “I know he’s gone but I don’t let myself think too deep on that. He influenced many people. His spirit and his work will live on.”

(Tricia Cortez may be reached at (956) 728-2568 or by e-mail at tricia@lmtonline.com)

2006-08-22T08:58:00.000-07:00

The Laredo Center for the Arts would like to invite artists 18 and older to submit artwork that explores themes of cultural, geographical, and / or artistic borders.

Deadline to submit slides is September 1, 2006 (postmark).

Visit our website for more information:
www.laredoartcenter.org

2006-08-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

The Laredo Center for the Arts and the Director of the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra, Brendan Townsend, would like to invite you to attend a very special event!

Event: A SUNDAY MUSICAL AFFAIR (featuring Brendan Townsend / Mary Grace Carroll and Friends in Recital)
Date: Sunday, August 27
Time: 4:00 PM
Price: $50
All proceeds will benefit the Laredo Center for the Arts!

If you cannot attend "A Sunday Musical Affair" and would like to make a contribution please call the Laredo Center for the Arts at (956) 725 1715. Another way you can help the Center support its mission is by becoming a member. Visit the Membership page on our website for more information: www.laredoartcenter.org/membership.php

MISSION: The Laredo Center for the Arts coordinates, promotes, encourages and supports the arts in the Laredo / South Texas area.

HERE IS A MESSAGE FROM LPO DIRECTOR BRENDAN TOWNSEND:
Dear friends and colleagues;

Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without. ~Confucius

With that in mind, and because money is the breath of life which the Laredo Center for the Arts cannot do without, I wish to invite you to attend a recital and reception at the Laredo Center for the Arts on Sunday August 27th , 2006 at 4:00 pm. Tickets cost $50 and all proceeds will go to support the ongoing operations of the Laredo Center for the Arts.

As a musician, an artist and a member of this community I feel very passionately that the arts community – of all types shapes and sizes – must band together to raise the general awareness of our missions, of our organizations, or our roles within the city and the beauty and sublimity we bring to the lives of those around us by what we do. We cannot live in a vacuum and all of the arts must work together to build a community spirit that fosters and promotes artistic accomplishment. This is why I volunteered my services to the Center for the Arts to help them raise the funds to continue the vital work being done to promote these ideals within the city.

On Sunday August 27th , 2006 we will perform a program entitled “Brendan Townsend / Mary Grace Carroll and friends in Recital” bringing together some of the finest talents in this city to put together a program of chamber music that is sure to please all tastes. There will be light refreshments available and the proceeds will be sure to benefit the Laredo Center for the Arts and promote a spirit of cooperation across the broad spectrum of artistic endeavors. I urge you to contact the Center at (956) 725-1715 to purchase your tickets, or contact me directly.

I look forward to bringing you great music and hope you will take some time on Sunday, August 27th to join Mary Grace and I at the Laredo Center for the Arts at 4:00 p.m.

2006-08-10T08:08:00.000-07:00

2006-08-10T08:06:00.000-07:00

Here's what you will see in our galleries this month:

2006-07-25T22:47:00.000-07:00

The Laredo Center for the Arts, the TAMIU Department of International Student Services and the Laredo Public Library invite you to the Summer 2006 Film Movement finale!

Thursday, July 27 at 7 PM in the TAMIU Bob Bullock Hall, Room 103 (BH-103).

Admission is FREE! Must be 17 or older.

For more information call (956) 725 1715 or (956) 326 2282.

THE LAREDO CENTER FOR THE ARTS COORDINATES, PROMOTES, ENCOURAGES AND SUPPORTS THE ARTS IN THE LAREDO / SOUTH TEXAS AREA.

2006-07-18T20:24:00.000-07:00

SUMMER 2006 FILM MOVEMENT SERIES

FREE Admission! Must be 17 or older. Films will be screened in the TAMIU Student Center Auditorium (SC - 236). Bonus short film will be screened after the feature film.

Thank you TAMIU Dept. of International Student Services and Laredo Public Library!

THIS WEEK Thursday, July 20 at 7 PM:

2006-06-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

Our Summer 2006 Film Movement Series will be starting next week on July 6 at 7 PM. Admission is FREE. The films will be screened at Texas A & M International University. The films will be screened in TAMIU SC-236. You must be 17 or older to attend.

2006-06-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

Here's some information about our upcoming workshop with Jerry deCaire

2006-05-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

Spring 2006 Film Movement Series

JOIN US FOR THE GRAND FINALE OF THE SPRING 2006 FILM MOVEMENT SERIES!!!

Thursday, May 4
FREE Admission, Refreshments & Popcorn
Must be 17 or older
Show begins at 7 PM

"CAMPFIRE"
Drama-Hebrew / Foreign / Israel

From the director of Time of Favor (winner of six Israeli Academy Awards, including Best Picture, 2000), comes Campfire, a story of one woman’s personal journey, but also a portrait of a movement that has forever affected millions of lives in the Middle East. The year is 1981. Rachel Gerlik, a 42 year-old widowed mother of two beautiful teenage daughters, wants to join the founding group of a new religious settlement in the West Bank. The problem is that the settlement’s acceptance committee won’t approve her unless she remarries and demonstrates that she and her daughters can meet the group’s religious and ideological standards. When Tami, her youngest daughter, is accused of seducing some boys from her youth movement, Rachel is forced to weigh her allegiances. Only Yossi, a 50 year-old bachelor and the new man in Rachel’s life, can show Rachel that living as an outcast is not as bad as it seems.

BONUS SHORT FILM TO BE ANNOUNCED

SEE YOU THERE!

2006-04-26T07:34:00.000-07:00

Spring 2006 Film Movement Series

Thursday, April 27
FREE Admission, Refreshments & Popcorn
Must be 17 or older
Show begins at 7 PM

This week:

"DRIFTERS"
Drama / Foreign / China / 120 min
Directed by Xiaoshuai Wang

Would-be immigrant Er Di is back in China, expelled from the United States for working illegally. While in the U.S. he had fathered a child, and when his American-born son comes to China for a visit, Er Di is barred from seeing him. At the same time, Er Di becomes involved with the beautiful member of a touring Shanghai opera company. Caught between his past and his future, his son’s culture and his own, Er Di seeks bonds with both.

BONUS SHORT FILM:
"Robot Boy"
USA / Directed by Ted Passon / 18 min

A young boy is born to two very particular parents who improve his less-than-perfect human parts with robot parts and a remote control. He spends all of his time mowing his parents' lawn until he meets a friend with an unusual escape plan.

2006-04-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

CALL FOR COLLEGE ARTISTS!!!
Salsa, the 2nd Annual Collegiate Juried Art Show will take place May 4 - May 25, 2006 in the Lilia G. Martinez Gallery at the Laredo Center for the Arts.

AWARDS
One $250 cash prize will be awarded by the Laredo Art League to the Best of Show. Accepted entries will also be eligible for 1st, 2nd & 3rd prizes in 2D, 3D & Media Art categories.

ELIGIBILITY
Open to college students enrolled between Spring 2005 & Spring 2006. Only original artwork completed in the last year and not previously shown at LCA may be entered. Artwork will hang in the Lilia G. Martinez Gallery.

Students are allowed to submit no more than two (2) pieces for a non-refundable entry fee of $15. Work can be no larger than 4 ft X 4 ft.

Salsa entry fee includes:
1.Membership for one year to the Laredo Center for the Arts (O’Keefe level)
2. "Constructing Collective Memory," Fred Spaulding workshop fee

The following media categories will be accepted: ceramics, digital media, film and video, drawing (includes pastel and ink), mixed media, painting, photography, jewelry, printmaking, sculpture, and installation.

All artwork must be ready to hang/present and those requiring protection must be covered with plexi glass. Screw eyes and wire must be attached. Gallery stretched canvas accepted (needs not be framed). Work must be ready to hang. LCA reserves the right to reject artwork.
Installation must be presented with photos.

Artist Reception: Thursday, May 11 6 - 8 PM

Deadline to submit artwork: Saturday, April 29, 2006 at 4 PM

2006-04-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEK

Thursday, April 20
7 PM
FREE Admission, Refreshments & Popcorn!
Must be 17 or older

"ROADS TO KOKTEBEL"
Drama/Foreign/Russia
105 min

A father sets off from Moscow with his 11 year old son for his sister's house in Koktebel by the Black Sea. With no money nor means of transport, they drift through the expansive and mesmeric landscapes at the mercy of chance. The father is content to drag his feet, stopping occasionally for the odd job to raise money while the son impatiently dreams of reaching the coast. For the father, the journey is an attempt to restore self-respect, to piece together his broken life and win back the trust of his son. For the boy, the mythic costal town holds the key to a new life and emancipation.

BONUS SHORT FILM:
"THE BOX MAN"
Stop Animation/USA/5 min

A dreary city sets the scene for this tale of paranoia. A pedestrian encounters a box on the street. In the box is a man, peeking out through a small, rectangular slit. The pedestrian becomes consumed by this box man. Watching him constantly until it escalates into a violent conclusion...

2006-04-12T13:16:00.000-07:00

We've recently exhibited artwork by
Ron Gershman

Temptation

and

work by

Kimberly Walton

My Journey Home IV

2006-04-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

Film Thursdays at the Laredo Center for the Arts!

FREE Admission, Refreshments and Popcorn!
Must be 17 or older
Show begins at 7 PM

This week:

"Agata and the Storm"
Romantic Comedy/Foreign/Italy

Synopsis:
A swirl of pop-art color, madcap magic, and the bittersweet call of life and love. Director Soldini pays careful attention to his cast of characters in this ensemble comedy, creating suspense, laughter and tenderness. When Agata (Licia Maglietta), the popular bookshop proprietor and dispenser of sunny wisdom in the form of books is suddenly wooed by a man almost half her age, her electricity hits high-voltage. Yet it is Agata’s joy and magnetism in the face of life in all its irony that eventually offers the eye of the storm.

Bonus Short Film:
Jesus Henry Christ (USA)

It tells the story of a free-thinking 10 year-old named Henry who attends a Catholic school, where he is punished for expressing his beliefs. Through his suffering, Henry saves his classmates from the tyrannical new headmaster.

2006-04-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

VMT Arts Festival
April 8, 2006

2006-04-08T11:06:00.000-07:00

2006-04-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

Fred Spaulding working on his sculpture
*photo by la_b.

2006-04-08T07:48:00.000-07:00

artwork by Fred Spaulding
*photo by la_b.

2006-04-07T14:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to 500 San Agustin!

The staff and friends of Laredo Center for the Arts have created this space to offer timely information and pictures about the happenings here at the Center. Tomorrow we look forward to the annual VMT Fine Arts Festival featuring performers from the Vidal M. Trevino Magnet School, student artwork, a community mural and sidewalk chalk art. We'll be here from 8 AM - 3 PM. Hope to see you soon.

2006-04-07T14:20:00.000-07:00