Men of Menil: Sumo

On Thursday evening, March 8, 2012, Men of Menil−the black-tie event for gentlemen whose contributions provide funds for the Menil Collection’s general operations and education and outreach programs−will feature a rare import from Japan: a demonstration of the sport and ritual of sumo wrestling.

Guests will observe sumo master rikishi (wrestlers) in a tournament performance, which will be presided over by a gyōji (referee), who will also officiate related ceremonies and rituals. This presentation of Japan’s kokugi (national treasure) will be only the fourth time in the past twenty years that professional Japanese rikishi have performed sumo live in the United States.

Each year Men of Menil presents a unique form of entertainment. For the inaugural gala in 2010, professional billiards players demonstrated their astounding skills, and sleight-of-hand artists conjured all manner of magic and marvels last year. This March, guests will be privileged to witness an evening of sumo, a rarefied and splendid melding of athleticism and cultural heritage. Four sumo wrestlers, dressed in traditional robes, will mingle with guests before dinner. Among them will be Waka (Keisuke Kamikawa), Noro (Takuji Noro), and Yama (Ryuichi Yamamoto)−all traveling to Houston from Japan−as well as Byamba (Byambajav Ulambayar, a former world champion who has appeared in more than twenty television shows and three films, including Ocean’s 13).

After dinner, the wrestlers will then enter a dohyō, or ring, assembled in the middle of the hall for the bouts, creating a spectacle like none ever before seen in Houston. One would have to travel to Japan to witness a sumo performance of this caliber, featuring athletes at their elite level. A fusion of art and athleticism, sumo traces its history to the seventeenth century, when it was devised as an entertainment or offering for the pleasure of Shinto gods to ensure bountiful harvests.

Men of Menil takes place in an extraordinary setting, inside the museum’s Richmond Hall annex, which houses a remarkable light installation by the renowned Minimalist artist Dan Flavin. Lead sponsor Gulf States Toyota and a group of distinguished guests have already helped raise more than $400,000 to date in advance of the event. Please join us for an unforgettable evening of superb cuisine catered by Jackson and Company, libations, and fine cigars, and witness this stunning exhibition of the art of sumo.

The Menil Collection opened in 1987 and is widely considered one of the most important privately assembled collections of the twentieth century. The museum’s holdings, ranging from the prehistoric to art of the present day, are housed in a modern landmark designed by the renowned architect Renzo Piano. In the quarter-century since it opened to the public, the Menil has established an international reputation for presenting acclaimed exhibitions and producing many scholarly publications; pioneering partnerships with other cultural and educational institutions across Houston, Texas, and the U.S.; and conducting groundbreaking research in the conservation of modern and contemporary art. The Menil charges no admission fees.

Sumo (相撲, sumō) is a competitive full-contact sport where a wrestler (rikishi) attempts to force another wrestler out of a circular ring (dohyō) or to touch the ground with anything other than the soles of the feet. The sport originated in Japan, the only country where it is practiced professionally.

Many ancient traditions have been preserved in sumo, and even today the sport includes many ritual elements, such as the use of salt purification, from the days when sumo was an important aspect of the Shinto religion. Even certain Shinto shrines carry out forms of ritual dance where a human is said to wrestle with a kami (a Shinto divine spirit).

Life as a rikishi is highly regimented, with rules laid down by the Sumo Association. Most sumo wrestlers are required to live in communal “sumo training stables,” known in Japanese as heya, where all aspects of their daily lives—from meals to their manner of dress—are dictated by strict tradition. Most elite wrestlers are highly trained athletes between 20 and 35 years old. There are no weight restrictions or classes in sumo, meaning that wrestlers can easily find themselves matched off against someone many times their size. As a result, weight gain is an essential part of sumo training.

The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk, the first fashion exhibition devoted to the French couturier, departs the Dallas Museum of Art after February 12, 2012. To offer visitors extra time to say “au revoir,” the DMA will extend the exhibition hours throughout the closing weekend. Friday, February 10, through Sunday, February 12, view the critically acclaimed international exhibition from 11 a.m. through 11 p.m.

Enjoy cocktails and dinner in the Atrium with Jean Paul Gaultier–inspired small plates from 5:00 until 10:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The DMA will present Jean Paul Gaultier on film beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday during the closing weekend. The films feature costumes designed by Jean Paul Gaultier or include interviews with the avant-garde designer. Stock up on Gaultier merchandise, including limited quantities of the exhibition catalogue and Jean Paul Gaultier by MIKLI eyewear, in the Exhibition Boutique and take The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier home.

Visit the exhibition during First Tuesday on Tuesday, February 7 for only $10 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.! General admission to the DMA is free throughout the day with special activities for our youngest visitors and their families. That evening, experience a one-of-a-kind musical performance ranging from Gershwin to Gaga during Fashioned Forward at the Dallas Museum of Art. Arts & Letters Live is pleased to host Ryan Taylor, the Director of Artistic Administration at the Phoenix Opera, as he conducts six musicians in response to Jean Paul Gaultier’s creative vision during an evening of musical selections spanning numerous time periods.

Artful Musings: Fashioned Forward

Inspired by the exhibition The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk

Tuesday, February 7; 7:30 p.m.

Horchow Auditorium

Using fashion icon Jean Paul Gaultier’s creative spirit as inspiration, six musicians respond to his collections in a one-of-a-kind, one-night-only performance with musical selections ranging from Mendelssohn and Madonna to Gershwin and Gaga. This marks the seventh collaboration with artistic programmer Ryan Taylor, who will create a multimedia extravaganza blending visuals of Gaultier’s work with musical and literary excerpts designed to resonate with the imagination of the celebrated French couturier, designer, and social provocateur.

Tickets: $37; reduced prices available for DMA members, students, and seniors. To purchase tickets online www.tickets.dallasmuseumofart.org/public or call 214-922-1818

6:00-7:30 p.m. Ticketholders have the opportunity to view the exhibition (included in admission to the performance) The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk.

Jean Paul Gaultier Film Showcase

Viewer discretion is advised due to adult content and language found in some of the films, which are specified below.

Horchow Auditorium

Free with general admission

Friday, February 10, 2012

Les Falbalas de Jean Paul Gaultier
Friday, February 10; 4:00 p.m.

Combining interviews with Jean Paul Gaultier, commentary by those close to him, and footage from family films, French filmmaker Tonie Marshall reveals the designer’s personal and professional world.

This film is not rated (59 minutes).

In French with English subtitles

The City of Lost Children
Friday, February 10; 6:00 p.m.

Costumed by Jean Paul Gaultier and set in a world where Cyclops, Strongmen, and other carnival characters navigate a treacherous society, one man is determined to save the children being kidnapped for their dreams by a scientist bound to steal them in hopes of living forever.

This film is rated R (112 minutes).

Truth or Dare
Friday, February 10; 9:00 p.m.

Jean Paul Gaultier was the fashion designer for Madonna’s 1990 Blond Ambition World Tour, and first-time filmmaker Alek Keshisian was allowed complete access, both on-stage and backstage, during the tour. The result is Truth or Dare, a fascinating look at one of contemporary music’s true phenomena.

This film is rated R (118 minutes).
Viewer discretion is advised due to brief nudity and strong language.

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Jean Paul Gaultier: The Day Before
Saturday, February 11; 4:00 p.m.

Granting journalists access behind the scenes of the fashion world, The Day Before films the intensity, stress, anxiety, humor, and joy of the thirty-six hours before a major fashion show.

This film is not rated (52 minutes).

In French with English subtitles

The Fifth Element
Saturday, February 11; 6:00 p.m.

From the streets of New York to distant planets, the strange universe of the 23rd century is dependent on the discovery of the fifth element. Starring Bruce Willis, Gary Oldman, and Milla Jovovich with costumes by Jean Paul Gaultier.

This film is rated PG-13 (126 minutes).

The Cook, the Thief, His Wife, and Her Lover
Saturday, February 11; 9:00 p.m.

Peter Greenaway’s extravagance in cinematography is matched only by the costumes of Jean Paul Gaultier in this lavish film. Starring Oscar-winner Helen Mirren, Michael Gambon, and Tim Roth, this film tells the story of love and marriage gone terribly awry over dinner.

This film is rated NC-17 (124 minutes).
Viewer discretion is advised due to nudity, strong language, and adult situations.

IDs will be checked for entry to screening.

Current employees of the City of El Paso, their spouses, or members of the Public Art Committee are not eligible to apply. The City of El Paso does not accept qualifications from undergraduate students for Public Art Projects.

About the Project

The City of El Paso Public Art Program is seeking artists or artist teams to create a series murals on west facing façade of the Police Department Headquarters building located at 911 N. Raynor. Four panels have been identified on Piedras Street, each measuring approximately 8ft by 12ft for the design and development of a series of murals. The commissioned artist will be required to gather research and present an original design reflective of the history of the Five Points area.

Application

All interested artists are encouraged to apply and review further details of the RFQ at www.callforentry.org and submit application by February 29^th by 5 o’clock pm.

For more information please visit www.elpasoartsandculture.org and click on the “Public Art” tab. For questions or concerns please contact Patricia Dalbin, Public Art Coordinator, at (915) 541-4894 or dalbinp@elpasotexas.gov.

The goal of the exhibit is to provide a unique collection that will appeal to a wide audience. The bikes can be of any make or model. Being in perfect condition is not important; being unique is.

A short list of what has been offered:

• 1939 Harley knucklehead
• 1942 WLA Harley war bike
• a Russian ice racer with spiked wheels
• 1954 British Maxey
• 1959 650 Triumph
• 1975 750 Ducati
• a Shovelhead blown fuel drag racer
• a 1964 Harley panhead
• and others

If interested, remember that the bikes will be on loan to the museum for a six-month period. Old posters, parts, books, advertisements, clothing are also being sought. For information contact Jim Murphy at 915-351-3588.

The El Paso Museum of History exists for the educational benefit of the community and visitors. It promotes the understanding and significance of the rich multicultural and multinational history of the border region known as the Pass of the North.

Marilyn Crying Dyptic by Russell Young, 2011 (image courtesy the artist)

Russell Young Retrospective
Goss-Michael Foundation
March 7 through March 31, 2012

The Goss-Michael Foundation will premiere a retrospective exhibition by prominent British artist Russell Young. The exhibition will open to the public on March 7 and continue through March 31.

The Goss-Michael Foundation, a nonprofit organization, exists to educate, engage and inspire audiences by presenting exhibitions of British contemporary art, as well as provide vast resources, educational programs and scholarships to aspiring artists.

Earlier exhibitions have featured Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst, Tim Noble and Sue Webster, Sarah Lucas, Marc Quinn, Nigel Cooke and Michael Craig-Martin.

It was 20 years ago that Russell Young first lent his eye to celebrity culture. That assignment was photographing Foundation co-founder and music icon George Michael for the sleeve of the album Faith, which won the 1989 Grammy Award for Album of the Year and sold over 25 million copies worldwide.

That job launched a career and soon Young was shooting musicians like Morrissey, Bjork, Springsteen, Dylan, REM, New Order, The Smiths, Diana Ross, Paul Newman and many other celebrities. The next natural step was directing music videos; Russell directed a hundred music videos during the height of MTV.

Ten years into his career, Young started painting, but his work remained private until 2003, when Young showed his first series, and first sold-out show of paintings, called Pig Portraits, about the glamour in the dark side of crime, fame, sex, drugs, rock and roll.  On the heels of the first series came Fame + Shame, a visual celebration of the inevitable fallout of resulting chaos that comes from the three decades of cultural excess.

Dirty Pretty Things is one of the first diamond dust prints he produced and reflects Young’s love for light after growing up under the leaden skies of Northern England. One of the most famous images is his Marilyn Monroe in Living Well is the Best Revenge.

In 2010, Young endured an eight-day coma, pneumonia and ARDS: all induced by the H1N1 flu virus. He emerged from his near-death experience with severe memory loss and an incredibly weak body. During his long recovery he began to examine his life and his surroundings in a whole new way. Young left the hospital and had to learn to breath, write, draw, think and walk for the second time in his life.

Young came again to paint. This time, freed from the domestication of the “picture world” as a feral boy, his art was filled with a new, rough energy of violence, sex and power. With the Helter Skelter series, Young learned to dance with this energy, crossing into the subconscious.

“My work is sort of a soundtrack to my life, loves, experiences and influences and my method of working is to search, destroy and create. The images of this series have been collected from newspaper cuttings, eBay, and long correspondence with police departments throughout the world or even given by celebrities themselves. The idea to create ‘anti-celebrity’ portraits was probably a reaction to my former career,” said Young. “However, they turned out to be even more beautiful and iconic. There is undeniably this attitude that is very real, in your face, a beauty that is hard to ignore. My art is a sort of soundtrack to my life, loves, experiences and influences. These would be my heroes that are missing from art history.”

In addition to the images that will be seen in this retrospective, Young is also exposing his studio to the world through a 24-hour live webcam broadcast over the coming months. This performance piece will be streamed from his studio in California and can be viewed at www.russellyoung.com/cam.

Russell Young has risen to become one of the most collected and sought after artists of our time. Celebrities and the most discriminating collectors like Abby Rosen, the Gettys, Elizabeth Taylor, David Hockney, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, David Bowie and President Barack Obama have added Young’s works to their collections. His larger than life screen print images from history and popular culture are compelling, daunting, and undeniable.

Young is married to actress Finola Hughes and they have three young children: Dylan, Cash and Sadie.   He lives and works in New York and California.

The GMF is pleased to present this exhibition which will highlight Young’s most famous works including a number of pieces mentioned above.

The Goss-Michael Foundation

The Goss-Michael Foundation was founded by George Michael and Kenny Goss in June 2007. The Foundation offers the public a rotating schedule of exhibitions derived from Goss and Michael’s private collection of British contemporary art as well as other institutions. These exhibitions serve as a challenge to preconceived art notions and strive to set a new standard in artistic awareness by providing visitors with fresh and fascinating art experiences. Through these experiences, the Foundation hopes to generate new perspectives and conversations on the creative methods of contemporary artists. Locally, the Foundation is dedicated to contributing to Dallas’ thriving artistic community and enhancing the public’s familiarity and interaction with contemporary and emerging British artists. The Foundation fosters young artists in Dallas, and throughout Texas through numerous scholarships and art education programs.

The Goss-Michael Foundation hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm, Saturday 11:00am-4:00pm, Monday by appointment only. There is no charge to visit the Foundation.

Marilyn Crying Dyptic by Russell Young, 2011 (image courtesy the artist)

Chihuly at the Dallas Arboretum, May 5 through November 5, 2012

Renowned artist, Dale Chihuly, brings his dramatic sculptures and installations to the Dallas Arboretum May 5 – November 5, 2012. The award‐winning, 66‐acre garden will display Chihuly’s transformative contemporary glass sculptures and installations.

Chihuly’s monumental designs appeal to people of all ages and have been seen in more than 200 museums, gardens and other venues around the world. Presented by AT&T, and made possible by Bank of America, the Dallas Arboretum is proud to host Chihuly’s highly‐anticipated exhibition.

Inspired by nature, Chihuly’s spectacular installations will be specifically designed to respond to the vistas architecture and magnificent garden at the Arboretum. “AT&T is proud to support this world‐class exhibit at the Dallas Arboretum,” said Holly Reed, regional vice‐president, AT&T. “Chihuly at the Dallas Arboretum will provide a memorable educational and cultural experience not only for the children and aduls in North Texas, but visitors across the state and beyond.”

“Bank of America is dedicated to strengthening the surrounding communities we serve,” said Richard Holt, Dallas president, Bank of America. “We’re proud to partner with our fellow corporate citizen AT&T for this Chihuly exhibition at the Dallas Arboretum. This unique opportunity will not only bring a global cultural experience to the residents and visitors of Dallas but also provde significant economic impact that contributes to the local economy.”

Chihuly Nights, will be powered by Cirro Energy. The garden will feature illuminated sculptures and various dining options three nights a week. Extended garden hours until 10 p.m. will offer visitors many opportunities to see this exhibit. During the daytime, the Arboretum will offer educational materials, programs and classes for children and adults.

Supported by the Dallas Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and the Dallas Morning News, the Chihuly exhibit is expected to attract both local and out of town visitors during its six‐month run. American Airlines is the official air carrier of the 2012 Chihuly exhibit at the Dallas Arboretum.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is located on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake at 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, TX, 75218. The Arboretum is open daily from 9am until 5pm and 6 – 10 pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for Chihuly and concert nights. General daytime admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors 65 and older, $9 for children 3‐12, and free for Arboretum members and children two and under. On‐site parking is $10.

Evening admission for non‐members is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors 65 and older and $12 for children 3‐12 with reduced prices for members. There is no charge for parking during our evening events.

For more information and other events, call 214.515.6500 or visit the Arboretum’s website at www.dallasarboretum.org.

Annie Lee: A Texas Farewell at Laura Moore Fine Art Studios

Annie Lee: A Texas Farewell
Laura Moore Fine Art Studios
February 11 through March 7, 2012

Laura Moore Fine Art Studios is excited to announce the 3rd exhibition with world-renowned artist Annie Lee.  Lee will be in attendance on opening night, Saturday, February 11, 2012, from 7-10 p.m., with the exhibition Annie Lee: A Texas Farewell featuring over 18 of her new acrylic paintings. The art in the exhibition focuses on everyday details from years gone by and solitary figures on the walk of life.

Lee’s often humorous, satirical style of painting has been termed Black Americana. She names Will Smith, Bill Cosby and Eddie Murphy as just a few of her notable collectors. Lee has been painting for over 60 years and with her first show in Chicago that sold out in 2 hours to single paintings selling for as much as $20,000, Lee is a true treasure in today’s art world. Lee has been living and painting in Texas for the last 6 years and now intends to return to Las Vegas where she once owned a 10,000 square foot art gallery.

“Mentor, art world navigator, savvy entrepreneur, advisor, humorist, neighbor and friend are just a few words that come to mind when I think of Annie,” Moore says. Moore states she has certainly enjoyed Lee’s time in North Texas and feels honored to know and to have painted alongside Lee.

The exhibition Annie Lee: A Texas Farewell is but a small outpouring of our well wishes towards Lee and her new endeavors. Come out on opening night and help give Lee a Texas sized sendoff. Annie Lee: A Texas Farewell opens on Saturday, February 11, 2012, from 7-10 p.m. at Laura Moore Fine Art Studios, 107 S Tennessee in historic downtown McKinney. The exhibition will be on display through March 7.

Gallery Hours are Monday through Saturday 1-5 p.m., 2nd Saturday 1-10 p.m., or by appointment. Free admission. 214.914.3630. www.lauramooreart.com

Art to Heart, works by Artists’ Showplace gallery owners that celebrate Valentine’s Day, will be featured in the gallery’s February exhibition.  The show runs February 3-25, with an opening reception on Friday, February 10, from 6 to 9 p.m. that is free to the public, with wine and hors d’oeurves. 

Artists’ Showplace is located at 15615 Coit Road, Suite 230, in the southwest quadrant of Spanish Village at Coit and Arapaho. Regular gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Artists’ Showplace also has workshops held throughout the year given by internationally renowned artists and offers weekly art lessons in its fully equipped classrooms.

What:

Art to Heart by Artists’ Showplace gallery owners

Where:

Artists’ Showplace gallery
15615 Coit Road, Suite 230

When:

February 3-25, 2012

Reception:

Friday,  February 10, 6-9 p.m. – free to the public

Gallery Hours:

Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Phone number: 972-233-1223.
www.theartistsshowplace.com

End of Day, Palo Duro Canyon (The Wagon) by Reveau Bassett

Dallas Fine Art Auction (DFAA) brings together three prominent members of the Texas, Western, and American art scene; David Dike Fine Art, Debbie Leeuw Fine Art, and Dallas Auction Gallery. Dallas Fine Art Auction presents a premier Western and Texas fine art auction annually. The DFAA partnership began in 2010 with a goal to provide both collectors and artists excellent service, personal attention, and scholarly knowledge about Texas and Western art. The annual auction will be held at Dallas Auction Gallery on Saturday, January 28, 2012.

The inaugural auction in 2011 proved DFAA to be a major player in the Texas and Western Art Market. An audience of roughly 500 people with another 200 online and phone bidders confirmed that collectors are hungry for good art and willing to pay strong prices for fresh, new to the market, quality artwork. Both collectors and consignors appreciated working with an efficient and reputable auction house.

The auction weekend is full of exciting events including a cocktail preview party on Friday evening and a live auction on Saturday at 2pm. Some of the most famous names in early Western, Texas and American art will be available at auction on January 28th, 2012 at 2pm. The second annual sale will include works by artists like Sydney Laurence, Robert Wood, Reveau Bassett, William Lester and Otis Dozier. Dallas Fine Art Auction is open for preview Monday- Saturday from 10-5 p.m.

Bidders are welcome to bid live, by phone or absentee bidding and live online at www.liveauctioneers.com. To view the entire catalog please visits our website at www.DallasFineArtAuction.com or call 214-653-3900 to request a catalog.

Mount McKinley by Sydney Laurence

David Dike Fine Art was established in 1986 in the Arts District of Uptown Dallas. Still currently located in the Arts District, the gallery specializes in late 19th and 20th century American and European oil paintings with an emphasis on the Texas Regionalists and Texas Landscape painters. The gallery strives to provide both new and mature collectors with an immense compellation of traditional and some non-traditional works. David Dike is a past-president of the Dallas Art Dealers Association and has been a member of the New England Appraisers Association of America and the Fine Art Dealers Association for over fifteen years. He has contributed to numerous Texas art symposiums, retrospectives and exhibitions across the state. David has contributed to the following books on Texas Art: Dictionary of Texas Art, by Paula and Michael Grauer in 1999 and Texas Painters, Sculptors and Artists, by John and Deborah Powers, 2001. He is recognized nationally as an authority of Texas Art and has joined forces with Dallas Fine Art Auction to share his knowledge.

Dallas Auction Gallery is a family-owned and operated international antiques and fine art auction house. The Gallery offers only the highest quality antiques and fine art, as well as impeccable client service and effortless, seamless transactions for both buyers and sellers. DAG’s highly trained auction specialists provide full-service estate consignment management and professional promotion and marketing, all designed to maximize values with the utmost integrity and personal service. Both buyers and sellers appreciate the Gallery’s hands-on approach, simplified fee structure, and ability to handle estates of any size. The company recently launched Dallas Auction Gallery Appraisal Services for clients and estate planners interested in appraisals conducted by our expert staff, each of whom is a member of the International Society of Appraisers (ISA), the worldwide standard of appraisal excellence. Scott Shuford, the president of DAG states that “ Dallas Fine Art Auction is way to showcase Texas and Western art through various fields of expertise and offer valuable service to artists and collectors.”

Debbie Leeuw carries on the legacy of “Passion for Art” that Bill Burford started with Texas Art Gallery in 1964. Texas Art Gallery closed its’ doors in 2009, but Debbie Leeuw Fine Arts remains dedicated to bringing together artists, artwork and collectors. Debbie Leeuw strives to give special personal attention to quality artwork as well as have first class customer service, setting her apart from the crowd. Debbie Leeuw is known for her commissions, consulting, referrals and buying of 19th and 20th century American and European oils, watercolors and bronzes with emphasis on western and impressionistic works. Debbie Leeuw’s passion for artwork is not only what she is well known for, but also what makes her successful with every endeavor she completes. She joined Dallas Fine Art Auction to contribute her proficiency of western art.

Rainy Day in Spring North of San Antonio Texas by Julian Onderdonk, 1919-1921

1000 Yard by Eric Villarreal

Cuentos de la Ciudad: The Art of Eric Villareal
Artes de la Rosa
Opening February 10, 2012

As part of it’s 2011/2012 Season of art, entertainment and culture, Artes de la Rosa Cultural Center for the Arts is proud to showcase the artwork of Eric Villarreal in the exhibit, Cuentos de la Ciudad. The exhibit will open on February 10^th starting at 6:00 pm with a light reception. Eric Villarreal will be on hand to discuss his artwork and meet and greet the public.

The Artes de la Rosa Gallery is located at 1442 N. Main St., Fort Worth, TX  76164. For more information please call Producing Director Mark Alcala 817-735-1117 or visit www.artesdelarosa.org.

About the Exhibit

Exploring the world of his childhood, Artist Eric Villarreal offers a vivid yet moody view of the community he grew up in. Depicting images of ‘el barrio’ with vivid color and strong imagery, he unfolds breathtaking stories that serve as testemant to the lives surrounding all artists.

From the Artist

Growing up, there weren’t any galleries or museums to expose me to the great artists of the past and present. I relied mainly on television and movies to expose me to artistic visions and style. Media has had a great impact on how I perceive the world. Therefore, it is only natural that it extends to my paintbrush as well. Recently, I have simplified the backgrounds and concentrated more on the figure itself. My aim is to set the mood between art and viewers, allowing the audience to reach their own conclusions to the story that is untold. My paintings are not only my observations on the world, but a testament of my life and the people I surround myself with.

Ghost of a Good Thing by Eric Villarreal