Tag Archives: Fine Art and Artists

Solo Exhibition of International First-Class Artist Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang Astounded the World

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The solo art exhibition of the Honorary Lifetime Director of the International Art Museum of America (IAMA) caused a sensation in Thailand! The exhibition of the international first-class artist Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang organized by the Department of Culture of Thailand lasted for five days and the exhibition astounded the attendees and general public - including art critics, scholars, and dignitaries.

In San Francisco, a special gallery at the International Art Museum of America on Market Street is dedicated to exhibiting the artworks of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang.

The grand opening ceremony took place at 11 a.m. on January 23 and was attended by over 200 dignitaries, business leaders and celebrities.

Honored guests include Mr. Surasak Pimpasing, Executive Vice President of Narai Property; Sunny Chau, Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council; Mr. Jassim Ahmed, Ex Secretary General of the Islamic Financial Services Board; Dr. Jitti Tangsithpakdi, President of the Thai Chinese Chamber of Commerce; Dr. Shanghai Sodtivarakul, President of the Chao Chaw Association of Thailand; Professor Cao Yun-Hua, Head of Academic Affairs Division, Mahidol University, Center of Chinese Studies, Former Dean of Overseas Chinese College of International Relations, Jinan University, China; Hon. K. Taveechai Charoenbundit, Senior Judge of the Thai Supreme Court; Mr. Swang Vongsrirungruang, President of the Hang Association of Thailand; Mr. Somboon Suriyaburaphakul, Honorary President of the World Wong Clan Association; Mr. Zhen Miao-Jin, Chairman of the Thai-Jian Zhe Hu Commercial Association; Mr. Giang Yuen-Chin, Honorary Chairman of the Board of Directors, The Hakka Association of Thailand; Mr. Qi Xiaoyun, President of the Thai-Wenzhou Trade Association; Mr. Chen, Hann-Chuan, Vice President of the Thai-Taiwan Business Association; amongst others.

In appreciation of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang's extraordinary contributions to the arts, the New York Academy of Art specially presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Dr. Wang on January 22. The Academy recognized Dr. Wang for her distinguished talent and as an international first-class artist who is among the top of her field.

The ink paintings of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang are characterized by an out-of-this-world aura that she created effortlessly; the compositions are audacious and elegant, held together by the fluidity of the ink without a trace of the brushes. The artworks are of distinguished style and magnificent ambience filled with vivacious energy. Her super-realist techniques bring about an artistry that has never been achieved by any famous classical painters in the past.

In 2013, George Christophides, President of the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs, Centers, and Associations (WFUCA), led a group of experts to visit the International Art Museum of America in San Francisco. The group highly commended Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang's artworks that were on view at the time. On the spot, they conferred one of her artworks with the title "2013WFUCA,"and especially issued a Passport for Global Ethics to the International Art Museum of America.

On July 30, 2008, the United States Congress recognized Dr. Yuhua Wang as a "great artist and sculptor" and officially chronicled such recognition in the Congressional Record. The same record also mentioned that Dr. Wang "takes great pleasure in helping others, is a selfless person whose moral character is noble, and has made great contributions to the development of cultural exchange between the East and the West."

The artistic accomplishment of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang has been acclaimed by Professor Stephen Farthing, an art scholar of world authority, who remarked that "Dr. Wang's paintings may draw heavily on the traditions of Eastern art, but they present themselves as extraordinarily Western ideas and images." Professor Farthing has served as the Rootstein Hopkins Research Chair of Drawing at the University of the Arts in London, and is a member of the Royal Academy of Arts in the U.K. He also said that Dr. Wang's mastery is of exquisite magnificence and her paintings "reach across cultures to celebrate the space that exists intellectually and emotionally between representation and abstraction, between a fact and an idea."

Kang Wen, a renowned art critic, acclaimed that Dr. Wang's artworks are of the top quality in the free hand style of liberal expressivity. Kang said he was very pleased to have the opportunity to appreciate Dr. Wang's ink painting. He felt as if he had entered a colorful art sanctuary where he was able to leave the noise of the world behind and feel the clarity, peacefulness and serenity in his mind. He acclaimed that the art of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang has attained the style of ease, and is of the same level of achievement as Wu Changshuo and Qi Baishi.

Kang also recognized the art of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang as inspired by Bada Shanren, and commented that the excellence of Professor Wang's art does not lie in how the artist represents the form of nature, but in how she expresses her mind through the forms, and how the movement of the brush captures the spirit. Kang stated that the paintings express humanity's wishes for peace and happiness; praises to the qualities of freshness, transcendence, nobility and elegance; and gratitude to flowers, trees and plants in nature for their selfless beneficence.

Kang wishes that the art of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang will tour different parts of the world so that more people may appreciate the beauty of nature, the beauty of art, the beauty of life, and the beauty of character.

The solo exhibition of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang was organized by the Department of Culture of Thailand and being held ceremoniously at the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, between January 23-27.

The exhibition announcement was put on all the video walls outside of the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center for continual broadcast. The announcement and related information are published on the official website of the Department of Culture. Official notice has also been issued to all universities, informing them to display the poster of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang's art exhibition in their campuses. The Department of Culture also made arrangements for students from different schools to take turn visiting the exhibition so they may appreciate and learn from the art.

Website for IAMA San Francisco: https://www.iamasf.org

The solo art exhibition of the Honorary Lifetime Director of the International Art Museum of America (IAMA) caused a sensation in Thailand! The exhibition of the international first-class artist Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang organized by the Department of Culture of Thailand lasted for five days and the exhibition astounded the attendees and general public - including art critics, scholars, and dignitaries.

Related link: https://www.iamasf.org/

College and Career Expo: Dream It and Be It!

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is proud to present College & Career Expo: Dream It & Be It!

Thursday, March 22, 2019, 1 - 5 p.m.
Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education
928 Simpson St.
Bronx, NY 10459

The College & Career Expo offers students a chance to learn about higher education and careers they might be interested in. Representatives from several colleges will be present. They are eager to share their knowledge regarding the admissions process, and the joys and challenges of the college experience.

Additionally, career professionals will be on hand to provide expert guidance on potential career paths.

Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education strives to provide young people with meaningful experiences that will enhance their college readiness, as well as the tools to shape their futures. We are happy to host this event for young people throughout the community.

To attend, register by Friday, March 15, 2019 for the College & Career Expo: Dream It & Be It! on our website: http://bit.ly/expo032219

Questions? Contact Santiago Grijalva, College Bound Coordinator, sgrijalva@casitamaria.org (718) 589-2230 ext. 6010

Supported by NYC Department of Youth and Community Development and The Charles Hayden Foundation.

Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education is the first and oldest Latino 501(c)(3) charity in NYC, founded in 1934. The South Bronx-based community arts and educational organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages. Learn more: https://www.casitamaria.org/

Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is proud to present College & Career Expo: Dream It & Be It! The College & Career Expo offers students a chance to learn about higher education and careers they might be interested in.

Related link: https://www.casitamaria.org/

Grand Opening of Los Angeles Senior Artists’ Art Exhibit

COVINA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Senior Artists' Art Exhibit - Collection from the Treasure Chest, held by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum, had its Grand Opening at the museum on January 26, 2019. Senior painting artists from both the main-stream and Chinese societies in many cities, turned their rich live experiences into color brushes, and they sketched, outlined and drew their ideologies and expectations about mankind and the world into wonderful paintings, painting the splendid world in their eyes and showed the richness and colorfulness of the spiritual lives of theirs.

This exhibit is a rare exchange in painting that is held for the seniors from different ethnicities in Los Angeles.

According to the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum, this exhibit showcases more than 60 paintings by artists from various senior centers and art organizations, including Pasadena Senior Center, the Palomares Artist Workshop, the Ray Tucker's Watercolor Art Class in La Verne, Mt. San Antonio College Older Adult School, Arcadia Recreation Center, Kinsley Manor and the Walnut Grove Art Association. Artworks by Ms. Wu Hua, a director of the Chinese International Calligraphy and Painting Artists Association, are also displayed.

The museum said that although there are many art exhibits in Los Angeles, those exhibit specifically held for seniors across different races and areas are very rare. No matter they are professionals or amateurs, it is obvious from the paintings on exhibit that these silver-haired folks live very spirited and invigorating lives. They transform their unique life experiences, their expectation about human kind and the world, and their ideals into paintings and show their hearts.

Seeing their paintings not only can move and inspire people, is significant in education for the mass in the society, but also can help to improve mutual understanding and integration among the various cultures and ethnicities. By holding this art exhibit, it is hoped that more seniors will attend such activities in the future.

Among the many community leaders, art experts and VIPs attending the opening ceremony are Mr. Aldo Ramirez representing State Senator Susan Rubio's office of the 22nd District, Councilman Dr. Allen Wu of City of Walnut, Dr. George Shannon, an associate professor of the USC's Davis School of Gerontology, Mr. Jim Berry, a faculty member at Caltech, Mr. Ray Tucker, an art teacher of the Mt. San Antonio College, and Ms. Wu Hua, Director of Chinese International Painters Association. State Senator Susan Rubio's office and Councilman Dr. Allen Wu each presented a certificate to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum.

Councilman Dr. Allen Wu of City of Walnut ceremony highly praised H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum for holding such a meaningful art event. "It not only enriches the cultural lives of the community but also brings Chinese art and culture as well as the elegance of art by the seniors to us," he said.

After the ceremony, all the visitors toured the museum and admired the great art treasures by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III housed in the museum. They were all in awe and could not stop saying: "It's so wonderful! I have never thought there are such world treasures which cannot be found in other famous museums! It is so worth it!"

The Los Angeles Senior Artists' Art Exhibit-Collection from the Treasure Chest is open for three weeks and will be closed on February 16, 2019. This is a public beneficial and free event. All is welcome to come and visit the exhibit.

The address of the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum is 170 E School St., Covina, CA 91723; the phone number is (626)281-6378.

Website: http://www.hhdcb3cam.org/htmlpages/2019SeniorArt/English/

About H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum:
H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum is remodeled from a 116-year old two-story historical building. It was formally opened on June 7, 2014. As an IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum not only promotes art and culture but also constantly concerns itself with disadvantaged groups in the society in order to contribute to the development of the community, improve social stability and increase fortune and happiness of families.

Since its opening, the museum has held many art exhibits and art contests for young students and autistic youths. Those events provide opportunities for the younger generations to present their own artworks, encourage students having talents and working hard to pursue artist development, and calls the attention by the society towards the various groups.

The Senior Artists' Art Exhibit - Collection from the Treasure Chest, held by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum, had its Grand Opening at the museum on January 26, 2019. Senior painting artists from both the main-stream and Chinese societies in many cities, turned their rich live experiences into color brushes, and they sketched, outlined and drew their ideologies and expectations about mankind and the world into wonderful paintings, painting the splendid world in their eyes and showed the richness and colorfulness of the spiritual lives of theirs.

Solo exhibition of international art master Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang is held at the Contemporary Art Center

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Rare Art, Inc. in Covina, California, announces the solo exhibition of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang, a noble international art master whose accomplishments has been appraised by the United States Congress and art scholars of world authorities, has been held world-wide - including China, San Francisco and currently in Thailand - in efforts to develop cultural exchange between the East and the West.

The artistic accomplishment of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang has been acclaimed by Professor Stephen Farthing, an art scholar of world authority; who remarked that "Dr. Wang's paintings may draw heavily on the traditions of Eastern art, but they present themselves as extraordinarily Western ideas and images."

Professor Farthing has served as the Rootstein Hopkins Research Chair of Drawing at the University of the Arts in London, and is a member of the Royal Academy of Arts in the U.K. He also said that "Dr. Wang's paintings very elegantly bring two forces together-the force that rejects perspective and the force of Photorealism."

The ink paintings of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang are characterized by an out-of-this-world aura that she created effortlessly; the compositions are audacious and elegant, held together by the fluidity of the ink without a trace of the brushes. The distinguished style brings about magnificent ambience filled with vivacious energy.

The paintings by Dr. Yuhua Wang are created from the foundation of Superrealism. Her art transcends the art of noble style and grand ambience. Such achievements have established Dr. Wang as an international master in the art world.

On July 30, 2008, the United States Congress recognized Dr. Yuhua Wang as a "great artist and sculptor" and officially chronicled such recognition in the Congressional Record. The same record also mentioned that Dr. Wang "takes great pleasure in helping others, is a selfless person whose moral character is noble, and has made great contributions to the development of cultural exchange between the East and the West."

In 2013, President George Christophides of the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs, Centers, and Associations (WFUCA) led a group of experts to visit the International Art Museum of America. The group highly commended Dr. Yuhua Wang's artworks that were on view at the time. On the spot, they conferred one of her artworks with the title "2013WFUCA," and especially issued a Passport for Global Ethics to the International Art Museum of America.

Event Information:

The solo exhibition of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang is co-sponsored by the Department of Culture of Thailand and Rare Art, Inc. Covina, California, in the United States.

The exhibition will be held January 23 through 27; open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please call +66 818378961 for further information.

Exhibition Venue:

Second floor, Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center, Department of Culture of Thailand, 84 Rachadamnoen Avenue, Khwaeng Wat Thep Maha, NAKHON 10200, Thailand. Tel: +66 2 4228827.

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*IMAGE FOR MEDIA: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0125s2p-source-of-life-300dpi.jpg
Image Caption: Artwork by Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang. All rights reserved.

Related information:
The IAMA SF in San Francisco has preeminent collection of the artist's works: https://www.iamasf.org/

Rare Art, Inc. in Covina, California, announces the solo exhibition of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang, a noble international art master whose accomplishments has been appraised by the United States Congress and art scholars of world authorities, has been held world-wide - including China, San Francisco and currently in Thailand - in efforts to develop cultural exchange between the East and the West.

Cuban Art Show in South Bronx Gallery – We Have Ire: Afro-Cuban in the United States

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education in partnership with Pregones Theater are proud to present "We Have Ire: Afro-Cuban in the United States." This exhibition and multi-disciplinary theater project will be produced by Cuban-American writer, performer, Doris Duke Artist and San Francisco resident Paul S. Flores, with collaborating Puerto Rican filmmaker and photographer Eli Jacobs-Fantauzzi. "We Have Ire" documents the stories of four Cuban artists, focusing on their influences and dreams.

The exhibition will be on view in the Casita Maria Gallery from December 13, 2018 to March 9, 2019. To kick it off, please join us for a Celebration and Artist Talk on December 13 from 5-8 p.m.

Our audience can also see a live performance of excerpts of the We Have Ire theater project on Saturday, March 9, 2019 from 2 - 2:45 p.m., in combination with a Family Storytelling Workshop from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Throughout the "We Have Ire exhibition," a companion exhibition of paintings created by Casita Maria Summer Campers, entitled "REACH!," will hang in The Young Artist Gallery. The young artists used imagery of astronauts exploring the cosmos as a powerful metaphor that there is no limit to success-- we can all reach for the stars and beyond!

All events are free and open to all ages.

"The Casita Maria Gallery is a powerful teaching tool and welcoming space of cultural celebration for the Young Artists of Casita Maria, their parents and caregivers, and the community. Through 'We Have Ire' we are thrilled to share Afro-Cuban and Cuban-American stories through so many artistic disciplines," said Gail Heidel, Director of Creative Arts Programs, Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education.

Casita Maria Gallery, 928 Simpson St, 6 fl.
Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., (718) 589-2230

Artist Bios:

Paul S. Flores' deep dive into themes of transnationality and citizenship comes at a crucial time in contemporary history. Flores creates plays and oral narratives that spur and support societal movements that lead to change. Flores's last play "On The Hill: I Am Alex Nieto" brought together San Francisco communities that had been divided by gentrification and police violence. Flores' ability to paint a vivid picture of bi-cultural Latino experience is shaped by his personal background and experience growing up near the Mexican border. He began presenting spoken word as a founding member of Youth Speaks and Los Delicados in 1996.

He performed for the first time in Cuba in 2001 while working at La Peña Cultural Center, and has since presented multiple times in Havana, Mexico and El Salvador. His comprehensive body of work touches on the immigrant story in all its complexities: from the violent-forced migration, gang life, war, incarceration and separated families-to zooming in on intergenerational relationships and the struggle of preserving important cultural values. Paul Flores's newest play "Pilgrim Street" premieres September 13-16, 2018 at Z Space Theater in San Francisco. His next play, "We Have Ire," about Afro-Cuban traditions, immigration and artists in the United States, premieres in 2019. He is an adjunct professor of theater at the University of San Francisco.

Eli Jacobs-Fantauzzi is a graduate of UC Berkeley and received his MA degree from NYU Tisch School of the Arts. Eli is an award-winning filmmaker and currently directs FistUp TV, a production company that documents people's stories from around the world as a way to expand community awareness around issues of social responsibility and cultural identity. His work has circulated through the National Broadcast: Free Speech TV, Teaching Channel and PBS. He is the co-founder of Defend Puerto Rico, a multimedia project designed to document and celebrate Puerto Rican creativity, resilience, and resistance. Eli is curating his ninth Annual Fist Up Film Festival in the Bay Area, California. His dedication to his craft is deeply connected to his commitment to social justice and the belief in the transformative power of film.

About Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education:

CASITA MARIA CENTER FOR ARTS & EDUCATION is the first and oldest Latino 501(c)(3) charity in NYC, founded in 1934. The South Bronx-based community arts and educational organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages. Learn more at: https://www.casitamaria.org/.

About Pregones Theater:

Following years of enterprising activity on stage and in the community, Pregones Theater and Puerto Rican Traveling Theater recently merged into a single Latino arts organization with performance venues in The Bronx and Manhattan. The transformation builds upon congruence of mission, values, and programs, and sustained engagement of a growing network of diverse artists and audiences throughout and beyond New York City. Moving forward, Pregones/PRTT champions a cultural legacy of broad impact through (1) creation and performance of original musical theater and plays rooted in Puerto Rican/Latino cultures, and (2) presentation of other artists who share our twin commitment to the arts and civic enrichment.

Supported by: NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and NYC Department of Youth and Community Development

Learn more about upcoming events at: https://www.casitamaria.org/events.

Follow on social media at: @casitamariabx

Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education in partnership with Pregones Theater are proud to present "We Have Ire: Afro-Cuban in the United States." This exhibition and multi-disciplinary theater project will be produced by Cuban-American writer, performer, Doris Duke Artist and San Francisco resident Paul S. Flores, with collaborating Puerto Rican filmmaker and photographer Eli Jacobs-Fantauzzi.

Related link: https://www.casitamaria.org/

It’s a Femme-inist Future for the South Bronx!

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is proud to present Teen Leadership Summit: The Future is Femme-inist! The Future is NOW! Young women and femmes of color are leading the way as community culture workers. They are artists, activists, healers, and leaders. The Future is Femme-inist is a one-day Teen Summit celebrating young women and femmes of color across New York City, led by the SmART Leaders program at Casita Maria.

Join us Saturday, December 1, 2018, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education
928 Simpson St.
Bronx, NY 10459

The summit will provide a social justice oriented space and honor solidarity amongst and across all communities. If you identify as a young woman of color between the ages of 12-18, we invite you to register today and join us as we celebrate fierce sisterhood, participate in powerful workshops, and enjoy performances, singing, and dancing.

Keynote speech by Naiomy Guerrero and a live performance by Lah Tere!

FREE: Event, Workshops, SWAG and Food!

"The Future is Femme-inist Teen Summit encourages and develops our young people's sense of community, solidarity, and helps them understand their empowered place in the world," said Shakti Castro, Associate Director of Education Programs.

"The Summit gives our community the opportunity to witness the agency, creativity, and power our participants have," said Irisdelia Garcia, SmART Leaders Program Assistant.

ABOUT SMART LEADERS:

SmART Leaders is a year-long program for high-school aged young people who identify as young women of color. We are dedicated to building positive self-esteem and sisterhood among young women and non-binary femmes, specifically focusing on rediscovering our identities and social justice education through art-centered classes and workshops!

Whether you are interested in painting, photography, dance, music, or other art-based activities we provide you with a safe space to discuss topics that you are interested in learning about through artistic conversations and activities. SmART Leaders is dedicated to supporting you as you explore your power, raise your voice, increase your confidence, and grow your activism!

Supported by The New York Women's Foundation and Department of Youth and Community Development.

ABOUT CASITA MARIA CENTER FOR ARTS & EDUCATION:
Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education is the first and oldest Latino 501(c)(3) charity in NYC, founded in 1934. The South Bronx-based community arts and educational organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages.

Art by Sharon Lee De La Cruz
Graphic Design by Sarah Bernero

Register Today: https://www.casitamaria.org/events/

Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is proud to present Teen Leadership Summit: The Future is Femme-inist! The Future is NOW! Young women and femmes of color are leading the way as community culture workers. They are artists, activists, healers, and leaders.

Related link: https://www.casitamaria.org/

South Bronx Gallery Exhibits Solo Show of Mexico City Artist Jorge Tellaeche

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education, in partnership with The Consulate General of Mexico in New York, are proud to present "Forgotten" by Mexico City-based artist Jorge Tellaeche, on view September 13 - November 21, 2018.

Join us for a Celebration and Artist Talk on September 13 from 5-8 p.m. at the Casita Maria Gallery. The exhibition will include a collection of colorful small acrylic paintings on canvas, wooden sculpture, and an installation filled with organic forms that become totems, characters and alebrijes (mystical Mexican creatures) that reference pop culture and world social issues.

A companion exhibition of artwork created by Casita Maria Summer Campers titled, "Celebration of Nations" will hang in The Young Artist Gallery.

To learn more about Tellaeche's ideas and artistic process we invite young people aged 8-20 to Casita Maria on Saturday, September 15, 2015 from 10-11:30 a.m. for a free workshop titled EQUIPO, (Team in Spanish), where they will create their own alebrije.

This workshop is designed to empower young people through art making - reminding them they are unique and have the power to create.

The workshop is divided into four parts:
* Consciousness and Sharing
* Music and Individuality
* Decision Making
* Creativity and Problem Solving.

Through the exhibition and the workshop the artist will be exploring how as a people we have forgotten the importance of worth in our word and honor. Tellaeche feels that "becoming complacent with the times we have turned into a society of broken promises. In a time of apathetic fake news that pushes us to not care, we forget we are humans with rights and that we need each other. This show talks about the desire to reach abundance in love and apathy, remembering where we all come from."

"I can attest to Mexican artist Jorge Tellaeche´s creativity, talent and commitment to empower youth through art," said Diego Gomez Pickering, Consul General of Mexico in New York. "Therefore, it is an honor for the Consulate General of Mexico in New York to collaborate with Casita María Center for Arts & Education to present the exhibit "Forgotten" inviting us to reflect on who we truly are."

"We are all brought to this world to share our uniqueness," says Jorge Tellaeche. "Together as a community we are strong because in our diversity we create a rich picture full of colors and wonder. This collection of pieces are made to balance the conflicting times that we are living in where it seems ok to hate and oppress. It shows faces of different cultural backgrounds, even some made up (magical) to show that we are all the same. Also in this Utopia there are some creatures that in Mexico we call 'alebrijes,' they are a mixture of different animals that are meant to protect us and teach us about teamwork and consciousness."

Learn more about the show: https://www.casitamaria.org/programs/gallery/forgotten

About the Artist:
Jorge Tellaeche is a Mexico City-based artist whose work is honest and intimate. It touches on themes that are relevant to his surroundings, to evoke dialog and self-confrontation. His visual language includes painting, sculpture and murals. His murals have been commissioned by the likes of the Residence of the Ambassador in London, La Lomita in Valle de Guadalupe, and CUNY University in NY, as well as international brands like Adidas, W Hotel, and most recently, Lululemon.

Learn more about the artist: https://www.tellaeche.com/

About Casita Maria;
Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education is the first and oldest Latino 501(c)(3) charity in NYC, founded in 1934. The South Bronx-based community arts and educational organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages. Learn more at: https://www.casitamaria.org/.

About The Consulate General:
The Consulate General of Mexico in New York is the official representation of Mexico in the tri-state area. Its purpose is to protect, defend the rights and interests of, and seek the integration and empowerment of Mexican nationals living in the area. It provides various services such as: documentation (passports, consular ID's, birth certificates, dual nationality, marriage certificates, wills), protection for Mexican nationals, financial education. Information: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx/nuevayork/index.php/en/.

Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education, in partnership with The Consulate General of Mexico in New York, are proud to present "Forgotten" by Mexico City-based artist Jorge Tellaeche, on view Sept. 13 - Nov. 21, 2018.

Related link: https://www.casitamaria.org/

First and Only Company in Pensacola Earns B Corporation Certification

PENSACOLA, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- idgroup, a Pensacola-based brand transformation firm, has earned certification as a B Corporation, an acknowledgment of the company's commitment to social and environmental ethics, transparency and accountability. idgroup joins over 2,200 Certified B Corporations globally-including 18 others in Florida-that have met the rigorous standards that measure a company's impact on its employees, suppliers, community, and the environment.

The firm commemorated the certification by hiring world-champion sand sculptor Rick Mungeam to transform five tons of beach restoration sand into a symbol of corporate responsibility at their downtown Pensacola office.

To watch a video the creation of the sculpture, click here: https://vimeo.com/267527460.

"For almost 30 years, we've made impact on others a central part of the way we do business," says idgroup founder and president Dr. Mona Amodeo. "It's wonderful to have that commitment and impact validated by such a respected entity in business transparency, performance, and accountability."

Certified B Corporations are committed to using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. In addition to recognizing existing efforts, B Corp certification also provides companies with a community of like-minded business leaders with which to connect, and to continually progress and innovate. idgroup joins a diverse community of B Corporations with members including Patagonia, Etsy, and Ben & Jerry's.

B Corporations are certified by B Lab, a nonprofit organization that assesses and recognizes companies who are voluntarily meeting higher standards of business performance, transparency and responsibility.

"idgroup joins a robust community of Certified B Corporations redefining success in business, so that one day all companies compete to not only be the best in the world, but to be the best for the world," says Jay Coen Gilbert, Co-Founder of B Lab.

In addition to becoming a Certified B Corporation, idgroup also became a registered Benefit Corporation in the state of Florida in February. While similar in concept to a Certified B Corporation, a Benefit Corporation must legally adhere to requirements in three specific areas: accountability, transparency and purpose.

"We believe very much in the power of business-and brands-to change the world. And like many of our clients who are making a difference in their communities, we also sought to hold ourselves to a higher standard of operation," says Kris Poore, Chief Creative Officer at idgroup. "We chose to become a Certified B Corp in addition to registering as a legal Benefit Corporation because we believe in the power of brands as a force for good. By modeling ethical and progressive approaches to business, we hope to encourage others to do the same."

Earlier this year, idgroup was also recognized with a Fourth District American Advertising Federation's Angel Award, which recognizes firms throughout the state of Florida and the Bahamas for their contribution and work for public service initiatives and campaigns for non-profits. The firm was recognized for its 2016 rebranding and advertising work with local nonprofit Autism Pensacola, the fourth recipient of Brand on Us(TM), an annual grant which awards a deserving local nonprofit with a comprehensive rebrand worth over $150,000. Learn more about idgroup at https://idgroupbranding.com/.

Watch a video of the sculpture creation and idgroup's thoughts on becoming a B Corp: https://vimeo.com/267527460.

About B Corporations:

Certified B Corporations are leaders of a global movement of people using business as a force for good. They meet the highest standards of overall social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability and aspire to use the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. There are more than 2,000 Certified B Corporations in over 130 industries and 50 countries with 1 unifying goal - to redefine success in business.

About B Lab:

B Lab is a nonprofit organization that serves a global movement of people using business as a force for good. Its vision is that one day all companies compete not only to be the best in the world, but the Best for the World(r) and as a result society will enjoy a more shared and durable prosperity.

B Lab drives this systemic change by:
1. Building a global community of Certified B Corporations who meet the highest standards of verified, overall social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability;
2. Promoting Mission Alignment using innovative corporate structures like the benefit corporation to align the interests of business with those of society and to help high impact businesses be built to last;
3. Helping tens of thousands of businesses, investors, and institutions Measure What Matters, by using the B Impact Assessment and B Analytics to manage their impact -- and the impact of the businesses with whom they work -- with as much rigor as their profits;
4. Inspiring millions to join the movement through compelling story-telling by B the Change Media.

For more information, visit: https://www.bcorporation.net/, https://bimpactassessment.net/, http://b-analytics.net/ and http://benefitcorp.net/.

About idgroup:

idgroup is a brand transformation company with a fundamentally different approach to branding. Since 1989, we've helped leaders tear themselves away from routine thinking, to embrace and leverage branding as an engine for reinvention and innovation. We help engage their stakeholders in fresh, new perspectives to tell and live a vivid brand story, and- as a result-achieve brand clarity and elevate their brand's value and reputation. Learn more about us at https://idgroupbranding.com/.

The Difference Between Benefit Corporations and Certified B Corps: http://benefitcorp.net/businesses/benefit-corporations-and-certified-b-corps

idgroup, a Pensacola-based brand transformation firm, has earned certification as a B Corporation, an acknowledgment of the company's commitment to social and environmental ethics, transparency and accountability. idgroup joins over 2,200 Certified B Corporations globally-including 18 others in Florida-that have met the rigorous standards that measure a company's impact on its employees, suppliers, community, and the environment.

Related link: https://idgroupbranding.com/

National Infertility Week culminates with release of documentary film, ‘The Empty Womb’

SANTA FE, N.M. /ScoopCloud/ -- Award-winning filmmaker, Betsy Chasse, announces inaugural release of her eagerly anticipated documentary, "The Empty Womb," marking the end of National Infertility Week. A depiction of the griefs infertility, "The Empty Womb" film features humanitarian artist, Robbi Firestone, who shares her infertility/IVF journey through art; "The Empty Womb" museum installation.

The 18-minute film explores in detail the silent, raw emotions infertile women suffer after failed invitro fertilization (IVF) cycles.

Best known as the Co-Creator (Co-Director, Writer, Producer) of "What the Bleep Do We Know," Betsy Chasse created the category of Spiritual Cinema, crafting media inspiring transformation.

Chasse describes "The Empty Womb" as so: "It's not just about infertility; it invokes a rare exploration of truly authentic communication. Women are speaking up, exploring sisterhood, teaching girls to express true feelings. In the film, Firestone inquires, 'Since when did telling the truth become bravery?'"

"The Empty Womb" project initiates a worldwide movement to unleash the silent, isolating and secretive experiences resulting from infertility.

Firestone's artwork and Chasse's film screened March 2018 in parallel with the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women by Tess Caccitore's "GWEN."

Nation Infertility Week culminates as Firestone's work begins; in Delhi, India, she was conferred the prestigious Iconic Women Bettering the World for All award by WEF.

Firestone says, "Gender Officers such as Georgia Gage, Republic of Liberia, have expressed that girls as young as 11 are labeled infertile after months of marriage. Immediately divorced, she is stigmatized; cursed. Rejected by family and community, she is vulnerable and impoverished; easily absorbed into sex trafficking.

"United Nations NGOs don't represent her. In Ghana, Liberia, India, this child is an ignored 'issue' -- I wanted to be a biological mother. This work supporting infertile girls and women chose me instead."

At New Mexico Philharmonic's Arts and Music Festival Firestone discussed "Art as Alchemy," at the National Museum for Natural History and Science, April 2018. A licensed RScP, Firestone runs a desperately needed coaching business connecting mental health professionals (themselves biologically infertile) to infertile women.

To heal her own experience, Firestone constructed "The Empty Womb" art of her own IVF supplies. Syringes, bloody alcohol swabs, etc., are crocheted into "Baby Blankets," with titles inquiring, "Did Invitro Kill Your Marriage?" or "Are You Willing to Die for your Hearts Desire?"

Firestone's fierce, provoking, raw, despairing, enlightening museum installation, "The Empty Womb," is the first to tackle this timely topic.

Learn more: http://theemptywomb.com/.

Chasse and Firestone are brazen new voices giving rise to a global movement unleashing the silent conversation around women's infertility. Visit "The Empty Womb" Film here: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/theemptywomb.

Award-winning filmmaker, Betsy Chasse, announces inaugural release of her eagerly anticipated documentary, "The Empty Womb," marking the end of National Infertility Week. A depiction of the griefs infertility, "The Empty Womb" film features humanitarian artist, Robbi Firestone, who shares her infertility/IVF journey through art; "The Empty Womb" museum installation.

Related link: http://theemptywomb.com/

Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education produces the 1st Annual Young Artist Showcase ‘There’s No Place Like Home’

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is proud to present "There's No Place Like Home," the 1st annual Young Artist Showcase celebrating the greatness and self-expression found within all Casita Maria program participants. This multi-disciplinary exhibition will include over 200 artworks created during the 2017-2018 after school-year.

Enjoy video documentation of performances by Casita's Young Violinists, Musical Theater Makers and Choir plus Poetry Is Not A Luxury Teen Open Mic. Artwork explores self-expression, youth identity, culture, social justice, and activism.

Youth voice is a principle that Casita Maria embraces and practices, therefore program participants were invited to select the title for this year's showcase along with the artwork for the exhibition postcard. The young artists love that it has a direct connection to this year's youth musical based on the "Wizard of Oz"!

"This exhibition is a community celebration of youth voice and youth choice," said Gail Heidel, Associate Director of Creative Arts Programs.

According to a Casita Maria Parent: "Casita Maria ... teaches our kids values, about art, about music, about drawing...these activities keep kids away from trouble and teach them to know how much more they can do through art and music - they can speak out through painting, they can find a voice through writing poems, they can express themselves through art ... I feel safe when [my child is] here. [When] I am at work I know she's in good hands. For my daughter to be able to express her whole self through drawing, through writing, through poems and now with the piano it's priceless and beautiful! She is learning and enjoying everything she does here ... in here, she finds herself!"

"Art is healing, art inspires us; art helps us to feel resilient and alive. In this exhibit Casita Young Artists get to share what they can authentically create," said Vanessa Tricoche, Director of Programs.

Learn more at: https://www.casitamaria.org/.

About Casita Maria:

Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education is the first and oldest Latino 501(c)(3) charity in NYC, founded in 1934. The South Bronx-based community arts and educational organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages. It is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and Council Member Rafael Salamanca, New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, the Charles Hayden Foundation and the New York Women's Foundation, on behalf of The NYC Fund for Girls and Young Women of Color.

*Web Image caption: Samantha, 9th grade, Image credit: Argenis Apolinario.

Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is proud to present "There's No Place Like Home," the 1st annual Young Artist Showcase celebrating the greatness and self-expression found within all Casita Maria program participants. This multi-disciplinary exhibition will include over 200 artworks created during the 2017-2018 after school-year.

Related link: https://www.casitamaria.org/

The Historic Ali Cultural Arts Celebrates Black History Month: ‘Beans, Rice and Gumbo’ Art Exhibition by Adewale Adenle

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Historic Ali Cultural Arts (www.aliarts.org) in Pompano Beach is proud to celebrate Black History Month with an art exhibition by Nigerian artist, Adewale Adenle. Beans, Rice & Gumbo: Facts, Fictions and Frictions of Black History narrates the history of blacks from the pre-slavery era through the present day. The exhibition runs from February 1, 2018 through March 29, 2018.

"Adewale Adenle is a provocative artist, author and educator whose art captures your attention with its boldness," said Cherolyn Davis, program and facilities manager. "For this exhibit, he is showcasing many historical portraits that will open a dialog from various perspectives."

This exhibition critically narrates the history of Africans and African Americans in a visual journey that confirms, challenges and channels new thoughts and revelations in history. Adewale, working from historic photos and descriptions, depicts the rich history of Ethiopia, Egypt and other African lands and then takes viewers through the agony of slavery, the triumph of the civil rights movement into today's successes and struggles.

"Through my portraits, I hope to take viewers back through history in a way that will provide new perspectives and open-up dialogues about important topics," explained Adenle, who is also an artist in residence at Bailey Contemporary Arts in Pompano Beach. "There has been a lot of misinformation and misinterpretation of the past, which I feel has led to a slave mentality that still pervasive today. I call it 'post traumatic slave disorder.' But if you take the time to explore history and connect to the past, I feel it will remove that mentality."

Adenle though his work, also imagines Dr. Martin Luther King and Malcom X speaking together. While this never happened, Adenle uses the image to express the different approaches to a similar goal.

"Art is an amazing way to present topics for discussion. We connect through art and we can heal from it as well," Adenle said.

About Adewale Adenle:

Adenle's paintings and drawings connect his background to observations intermingled with primary emotions and personal experiences that are basic to his growth, especially as they continue to influence socio-political discourse in his homeland (Nigeria) and intertwined with policies in his adoptive country, the US. He explores dual realities and logics in political constructs and systems, arriving at a three-dimensional work that vastly engages the viewer to unload and search for multiple logics in its interpretation. Within these dualities, he induces metaphorical slippages in relationships between objects and their context to form new meanings and expose contradictions in many conventional social structures.

Adenle has over 15-years of experience exhibiting his paintings and working as a political cartoonist/illustrator/art editor with various newspapers in Nigeria, the U.S and Great Britain. In the 90's, his acerbic socio-political cartoons and paintings were thorns in the flesh of dictatorial military regimes in Nigeria as the country was agitating for democracy.

He has won numerous awards and grants among which are the 2000 Reuters News Graphics Travel Award, which included an instructive participation at the Malofiej/ Show-Don't- Tell-workshops at the University of Navarra, Pamplona- Spain, and work experience at Reuters in London, UK. He has given lectures and workshops at Rochester Institute of Technology-New York, Amarillo College-Texas, Cartoonist Rights Network/State Department's Sponsored workshop in Douala, Cameroon, among others. From 2002 to 2004, 'Wale was a studio painter at Marcus Akinlana's WON Murals-New Orleans, where he assisted in executing several public projects including the murals for the Philadelphia International Airport, PA and Aurora Community Center, CO.

He is the author of "Mixed Feelings," a 15-year celebration/collection of his socio-political satire. Published in 1999, the book was collected by The University of California (Berkeley Library) for selected acquisitions in Africana Studies and catalogued at The Library of Congress, Washington, DC. His most recent public commission includes among others, "Congo Square" a 7ft x11ft cast bronze sculpture, commissioned by the city of New Orleans and installed at the Louis Armstrong Park.

The Historic Ali Cultural Arts:
353 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 -- 954-786-7876.

About Historic Ali Cultural Arts:
The Historic Ali Cultural Arts is located in the former home of the late Frank and Florence Major Ali, who had emigrated from Cuba and The Bahamas respectively. As the first African American business owners in Pompano Beach, Frank operated a barbershop and Florence, who was a skilled seamstress, cosmetologist and fashion designer, also operated her business in the building. This two-story property was built in 1933 and placed on the City of Pompano Beach Historical Register in 2016.

The City of Pompano Beach, Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency and the Rock Road Restoration Historical Group preserve the northwest corridor history and culture by telling positive stories of the African American experience through performing arts, visual arts and intellectual work that educates and celebrates all people of color throughout history.

More information: http://aliarts.org/.

About the Pompano Beach Redevelopment Agency (CRA):
A Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is a dependent district established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district. The CRA is governed by State Statutes, Chapter 163, Part III. The Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes.

More information: http://pompanobeachfl.gov/index.php/pages/cra/cra.

The Historic Ali Cultural Arts in Pompano Beach, Fla. is proud to celebrate Black History Month with an art exhibition by Nigerian artist, Adewale Adenle. Beans, Rice and Gumbo: Facts, Fictions and Frictions of Black History narrates the history of blacks from the pre-slavery era through the present day. The exhibition runs from February 1, 2018 through March 29, 2018.

Related link: http://www.aliarts.org/

BaCA Presents ‘Portraits’ by Photographers Keliy Anderson-Staley and Stephen Gaskins

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) in Pompano Beach is proud to present "Portraits" - a dynamic show featuring the works of one of the country's most esteemed photographic artists, Keliy Anderson-Staley, whose work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the Library of Congress. The exhibit will also include emerging Florida photographer, Stephen Gaskins.

The exhibit runs January 13-February 23, with the artists' reception on February 2, 2018. For more information, visit www.baileyarts.org.

"[Hypen] Americans" is a diverse collection of American faces made across the country. The title of the project refers to the hyphenated character of American identities (Irish-American, African-American, etc.) without labeling anyone's actual identity.

"We are thrilled to exhibit Keliy Anderson-Staley's '[hyphen] Americans,'" said Juliana Forero, Ph.D., BaCA's gallery curator. "What adds to the incredible nature of these photographs is Keliy's process, which adheres to techniques used in the 1800's."

This video explains the historic process:
https://vimeo.com/47263489

These portraits are all wet-plate collodion tintypes, made with chemistry mixed according to nineteenth-century recipes, period brass lenses and wooden view cameras. This nineteenth-century process was the first process widely used to make photographic portraits. The project draws attention to the fact that all portraits exist within a history of images, and that our perception of ourselves and our ancestors has always been mediated by photographic technology.

Keliy Anderson-Staley has exhibited her work at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, Morris Museum of Art, California Museum of Photography, Bronx Museum of Art, Akron Art Museum and Southeast Museum of Photography. Her work is in the collections of the Library of Congress, Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, Portland Museum of Art and Museum of Fine Arts-Houston.

She was a New York Foundation for the Arts Fellow and a recipient of grants from Puffin Foundation, Houston Arts Alliance and George A. and Eliza Gardner Howard Foundation. She received the Carol Crow Memorial Fellowship from the Houston Center for Photography and the Clarence John Laughlin Award from the New Orleans Photo Alliance. She is also an assistant professor of photography and digital media at the University of Houston.

Her images have appeared in publications including Tricycle, Hemispheres, Art and Auction, Conde Nast Traveler, Contact Sheet, Photo District News, Camerawork and New York Magazine. A book of her tintype portraits, "On a Wet Bough," was published by Waltz Books.

This exhibit also features emerging photographic artist, Stephen Gaskins, who will display a collection of stunning photographs featuring African American women.

Stephen Gaskins owns a portrait studio where he spends countless hours capturing and editing images of prominent members of the community. A graduate from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale in the Multi-Media Design program, he is a successful self-taught photographer who started exploring photography four years ago and who grew his skills with the daily practice on the photography workflow.

The exhibition is free and open to the public.

Bailey Contemporary Arts is located at 41 NE 1st St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060 | (954) 284-0141. Learn more at: http://www.baileyarts.org/.

*Web Image Caption: "Dulce" by Keliy Anderson-Staley.

Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) Gallery in Pompano Beach is proud to present "Portraits" - a dynamic show featuring the works of one of the country's most esteemed photographic artists, Keliy Anderson-Staley, whose work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the Library of Congress. The exhibit will also include emerging Florida photographer, Stephen Gaskins.

Related link: http://www.baileyarts.org/

BaCA Artists to Present at Superfine! Miami 2017

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) in Pompano Beach is excited to announce that their 10 resident artists will be presenting at Superfine! Miami 2017. The boutique contemporary art fair takes place December 6-10, during Art Basel, and features a hyper-curated exhibitor list.

"We are thrilled that BaCA will have a booth at the upcoming Superfine! art fair," said Juliana Forero, Ph.D., BaCA's gallery manager. "This event provides a platform for local, national and international visitors to learn about BaCA's programming and the great work that we are doing in Pompano Beach. It is also a tremendous opportunity for our artists in residence to reach new audiences and expand their network."

Artists participating include: Adewale Adenle, Missy Pierce, Cindy Trezona, Jinx Remover, Cherie Saleeby, CHNK, Galen Todd Traxler, Sandi Lazar, Heather Sisk, Samantha McInnis. BaCA's Artists in Residence are a diverse group of international, national and local artists who form a dynamic community within BaCA's walls.

During Superfine!, 46 international exhibitors ranging from top global galleries to Miami-bred independent artists will feature over 800 new works (70 percent priced accessibly between $200 and $4,000) as part of the only fair curated to provide both value and cutting-edge artwork under the same roof.

Superfine! Miami 2017 will kick off with a Midnight Vernissage starting at 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 6 and will open to the public for a locals' reception and concert the evening of Thursday, December 7. Tickets start at $10 for single day admission, $35 for all-access passes, and $50 for Midnight Vernissage passes (which include all features of all-access passes).

For tickets, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/superfine-miami-2017-tickets-34833027523

For more information about BaCA, please visit: http://www.baileyarts.org/.

About Superfine!:

Superfine! is a curated, boutique contemporary art fair. We humanize the art world by carving out a nice where passionate, professional artists and their champions meet eager collectors, one-on-one. Each fair is a fun and accessible environment built for bringing joy and excitement to the collecting experience. Through a hyper-curated exhibitor list, we consistently deliver high-quality, well-priced artwork directly to you.

About Bailey Contemporary Arts:

The mission of the Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) is to cultivate, incubate and nurture a vibrant visual arts community that enriches Pompano Beach and its goal of being a nexus of art, creativity, diversity, and inspiration. Serving as an incubator for artistic innovation and education, the staff of BaCA amalgamates emerging local and national artists with industry professionals to elevate the creative process.

Located in the historic Bailey Hotel building, which was, at one point, the center of a thriving downtown in Pompano Beach. Built in 1932, the historic Bailey Hotel is the second oldest remaining building (right behind the old Farmer's Bank building next door), and is part of the longest contiguous collection of historic buildings in Broward County.

Bailey Contemporary Arts is located at 41 NE 1st Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33060. For more information call 954-284-0141

About the Pompano Beach Redevelopment Agency (CRA):

A Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is a dependent district established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district. The CRA is governed by State Statutes, Chapter 163, Part III. The Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes.

Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) in Pompano Beach is excited to announce that their 10 resident artists will be presenting at Superfine! Miami 2017. The boutique contemporary art fair takes place December 6-10, 2017 during Art Basel, and features a hyper-curated exhibitor list.

Related link: http://www.baileyarts.org/

Bailey Contemporary Arts Presents ‘Spiritual Vessels’

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bailey Contemporary Arts (www.baileyarts.org) newest exhibit "Spiritual Vessels," features the paintings of Tony Khawam and the clay ceramic sculptures of Jeff Whyman. Khawam's new collection, "Syria- Aleppo Urban Landscapes," presents a semi-abstract vision of Syria's war-torn cities. Khawam invited Whyman to partner with him on this exhibit as he felt a spiritual connection between their works. The exhibit will run from December 1, 2017 through January 5, 2018. Visit the website for information about the opening reception and artists' talk.

Khawam stopped painting in 2001 after the events of 9/11, but picked up his brush again in 2015 having been influenced by the Syrian crisis that ravages his birthplace of Aleppo, Syria.

"My primary focus is of my birthplace, the city of Aleppo, with urban scenes of collapsed apartment floors, fallen balconies, curved rooftops and punched holes in the building facades," explained Khawam, whose family immigrated to the US in 1976 and became a naturalized citizen five years later.

"Viewers at first glance experience both the sadness of the scene and a hopeful feeling," explained Juliana Forero, Ph.D., BaCA's gallery manager.

Khawam accomplishes this paradox by using a colorful palette to paint the neighborhoods by deconstructing the painting with the single stroke method. This allows the work to appear intact while at the same time viewers see the tragic reality of haunting, disturbing scenes. It also offers viewers a unique vision of his application and method, which is evident in the contemporary art direction of his paintings.

Khawam's aim is not to focus on the politics of the conflict, but instead to raise awareness in the hope of changing the perception from destruction - of haunting and disturbing scenes to hopeful, colorful neighborhoods that are filled with life. "The presence of people is felt without showing human suffering and offers a glimpse of hope for residents to return and rebuild," continued Khawam.

"Syria - Aleppo Urban Landscapes" paintings series are best viewed as collage paintings of six or more to form one artwork so the viewer can fully experience the depth, sensitivity of the subject and the method of painting up close to examine the expressionist fractal patterns of layered accumulation of brush strokes.

Khawam met Whyman during the latter's solo exhibition at Rosenbaum Contemporary Gallery in Boca Raton and felt an instant affinity for his work.

Master artist Jeff Whyman has been exploring the expressive possibilities of clay and steel sculpture for more than four decades. He studied with legendary Peter Voulkos who was a leader in both breaking the boundaries between the fine arts and crafts and in creating large scale abstract expressionistic ceramics. Whyman uses clay to form the basic shape of a pottery, then he starts adding different shapes of clay and other materials with rapid execution and full energy to finish the process by glazing the ceramic sculpture.

"Jeff has figured out how to create contemporary works of art from an ancient craft and uses it to create contemporary signature style ceramic sculptures. His application and rapid execution of the materials to build a sculpture is similar to my techniques of applying expressionist strokes to construct and deconstruct to create a fragmentation but yet intact paintings," said Khawam. "Jeff's work reminds me of the sculptures I grew up seeing in the national museums of Aleppo and Damascus."

Bailey Contemporary Arts is located at 41 NE 1st Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33060. For more information call 954-284-0141.

More information: http://www.baileyarts.org/.

Bailey Contemporary Arts newest exhibit "Spiritual Vessels," features the paintings of Tony Khawam and the clay ceramic sculptures of Jeff Whyman. Khawam's new collection, 'Syria - Aleppo Urban Landscapes,' presents a semi-abstract vision of Syria's war-torn cities. Khawam invited Whyman to partner with him on this exhibit as he felt a spiritual connection between their works. The exhibit will run from Dec. 1, 2017 through Jan. 5, 2018. Visit the website for information about the opening reception and artists' talk.

Related link: http://www.baileyarts.org/

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Scheduled to Honor Veterans at Clarke County Freedom Rock Dedication

MURRAY, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Clarke County, Iowa's favorite daughter, Governor Kim Reynolds will join hundreds of community members, leaders and veterans in a ceremonial dedication of Clarke County's Freedom Rock. On Saturday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., the latest installment by Freedom Rock painter, Ray "Bubba" Sorensen, will be the site of a Veteran's Day celebration and dedication. Those in attendance will hear from Governor Reynolds, along with local leadership, military officials, and community members from throughout south-central Iowa.

The dedication ceremony will be held at the recently constructed Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall, located at the Murray Cemetery off Highway 34 and County Highway R16.

Jason Gibbs, member of the Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall Committee said the program should last about 30 minutes, and guests are invited to lunch at the Murray High School following the program.

Seating will be limited, so guests are encouraged to arrive early, use the shuttle services available from Murray, Osceola, and the Bunn Manufacturing locations and to bring their own lawn chairs.

About the Clarke County Freedom Rock:

Sorensen began painting the original Freedom Rock, located north of Greenfield, Iowa, in 1999 after being inspired by the movie "Saving Private Ryan."

His original rock, which was painted with a new design each Memorial Day, quickly garnered local, regional and national recognition. Sorensen soon decided to spread the message of the Freedom Rock by committing to painting a Freedom Rock in each of Iowa's 99 counties and beyond. According to TheFreedomRock.com Web site, the Clarke County Freedom Rock is 67th of 68 current honorary displays.

Since Sorensen designs each rock to represent the military members and history of each county, Sorensen and the Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall committee started conversations in the fall of 2015 to brainstorm ideas and themes for the rock being dedicated on Saturday.

"That usually means finding specific veterans," Sorensen said while working on another Freedom Rock in Cresco. "We landed on killed in action. That's why the front side of that (rock) is a gold star family member clutching a flag that was given to them and the ghost of the fallen soldier touching her."

The front face of the Clarke County Freedom Rock also features a quote from Abraham Lincoln.

The back face of the Clarke County Freedom Rock, facing the Honor Wall, features illustrations of Maxton Daniel, Raymond Harris, George Horton, Herschel Oehlert and Bert Keeler - Clarke County residents who were killed in action.

The west side of the rock features a large red bull logo, signifying the 34th Infantry Division, which Highway 34 is named after.

"There was a guy from Garner, Iowa, driving by and he saw that red bull's face," Gibbs said. "It's got great history. This guy's dad was in the 34th Infantry Division. That was something Bubba added and thought would be appropriate. I'm so glad he did. That's a big deal to tens of thousands of people."

The Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall:

Constructed behind the Freedom Rock is the Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall, which gives individuals the opportunity to have a veteran's name engraved into plaques placed on the wall. To date, the Honor Wall has plaques representing over 450 veterans from Clarke County and surrounding areas. The Honor Wall is not limited to veterans who lived in Clarke County.

Gibbs said the committee wanted to give everyone an opportunity to have their veteran recognized on the wall, especially since there will be people from all over the country visiting the Freedom Rock and Honor Wall.

Plaques for the Honor Wall can be purchased by contacting Gibbs at 641-414-1117.

Governor Reynolds and Clarke County:

Iowa Governor, Kim Reynolds, has a special connection with the community in Clarke County. A southern Iowa native, Reynolds started her political career serving four terms as the Clarke County Treasurer before moving on to the Iowa Senate representing district 48 in 2008. In 2011, Governor Terry Branstad hand-picked Reynolds as Lieutenant Governor where she served until Branstad's departure in 2016.

For more information on the Clarke County Freedom Rock Project and the Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall, contact Jason Gibbs Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall Committee at 641-414-1117.

Learn more about Clarke County at: http://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Drone Video footage of the Clarke County Freedom Rock site can be found at: https://vimeo.com/241939685

Video and photos provided by Andrew Clark and SPOKE Communications, LLC.

Clarke County, Iowa's favorite daughter, Governor Kim Reynolds will join hundreds of community members, leaders and veterans in a ceremonial dedication of Clarke County's Freedom Rock. On Saturday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., the latest installment by Freedom Rock painter, Ray "Bubba" Sorensen, will be the site of a Veteran's Day celebration and dedication. Those in attendance will hear from Governor Reynolds, along with local leadership, military officials, and community members from throughout south-central Iowa.

Related link: http://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Venice Art Center Exhibition Sponsored by Mahle Cool Air

VENICE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Mahle Cool Air and Heating was a sponsor of the Venice Art Center's monthly exhibition featuring works from local artists.

Founded in 1958 by the Venice-Nokomis Art Association and located directly on Venice Island, the Venice Art Center has grown from humble beginnings to now include a permanent gallery, cafe, and offers art classes for both adults and children in a wide variety of mediums. Venice Art Center class subjects include classes on watercolors, oils, acrylics, photography, ceramics, sculpture and jewelry making.

With the works of more than 100 professional artists on display, the Venice Art Center further encourages community engagement by hosting monthly exhibitions and receptions. These exhibitions feature art by many of the area's top local artists related to a theme.

Drawing crowds of art enthusiasts from all around southwest Florida including Sarasota, Englewood, and North Port, the exhibitions offer participants exposure to a wider audience and the chance for the public to become more involved with local arts.

The past month's exhibition theme was entitled "H2O: The wetter the better," and displayed many beautiful works including those of winning artist Kitt Moran.

Denny Mahle, owner of air conditioning repair company Mahle Cool Air, had this to say about sponsoring the event: "The Venice Art Center is a truly unique community arts resource and our area's residents are fortunate to have such a high quality arts center located right here on Venice Island. With the weather so hot this month the theme could not have had a better name!

"All of us at Mahle Cool Air are proud to have sponsored the Venice Art Center Exhibition. We had phenomenal turnout for the reception where we enjoyed the multitude of amazing paintings and pictures. Congratulations to this month's winning artist Kitt Moran, and we look forward to serving our community by keeping our customers cool and comfortable no matter how hot it get outside."

About Mahle Cool Air & Heating:

Mahle Cool Air and Heating is a family owned and operated HVAC company in Venice, Florida. Mahle Cool Air is a Bryant Factory Authorized dealer with technicians with over 28 years of experience. All of Mahle's technicians are NATE Certified and specialize in residential AC repair, new unit installation and maintenance plans for residents in Sarasota and Charlotte Counties including, Sarasota, Venice, North Port and Englewood. Mahle Cool Air and Heating strives for great customer service, competitive prices, and offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.

For more information visit our website at: http://www.MahleAirConditioning.com/.

Mahle Cool Air & Heating
850 Commerce Dr.
Venice, FL 34292
941-584-6300

Twitter: @MahleCoolAir

Mahle Cool Air and Heating was a sponsor of the Venice Art Center's monthly exhibition featuring works from local artists. Founded in 1958 by the Venice-Nokomis Art Association and located directly on Venice Island, the Venice Art Center has grown from humble beginnings to now include a permanent gallery, cafe, and offers art classes.

Related link: http://www.mahleairconditioning.com/

Pompano Beach’s Bailey Contemporary Arts and Ad Visual Arts Academy in Tehran Present ‘Frontier’ Global Exhibition

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bailey Contemporary Arts (www.baileyarts.org) in Pompano Beach is proud to collaborate with Ad Visual Arts Academy in Tehran, Iran for a global exhibit of ceramic and mixed media works that explores the idea of "Borders" versus "Frontiers." The first "Frontier" exhibition was held in Khaneh-Honarmandan, Tehran, one of the most prestigious art centers in Iran. In addition to the Iran-based exhibit, four international curators were called to collaborate and invite artists in their country to hold exhibitions.

Sarah Benichou of Bailey Arts was selected and has organized a prestigious array of artists to present. The exhibit will open September 1 and run through September 19, 2017.

"We are so honored that BaCA was chosen to be included in this outstanding global exhibit," said Benichou. "I was asked by the Academy to put together an exhibit that shows how artists understand and grapple with the notion of 'limitations,' be it physical or geographic borders, or material and medium.

"Focusing on the characteristics of ceramics, the show looks to address the concerns of the contemporary world, and how we are being limited, and at the same time challenged, to defy those limitations. The notion of borders is constraining, but in the United States the implication of 'Frontier' is inspiring."

Since the field of ceramics oscillates between art and craft with influences on painting and sculpture without a specific division between applied and visual arts, the Academy had decided that after its first ceramics-based exhibition "Breakable," the theme for this year's exhibition will be how artists can use ceramics.

Artists participating in the BaCA show include Linda Behar, Michael Boroniec, Giannina Dwin, Stephen Futej, Sibel Kocabasi, Anja Marais, Jessica Putnam Phillips, Cherie Saleeby, Anthony Stellaccio. In this exhibition, conceptual works will be comprised fully of ceramic materials, or from different media, including painting, photography, sculpture, installation, performance and ime-based arts, with ceramics integrated into the creation, and execution process.

Other countries participating in this global initiative include Japan, Turkey and France.

The Ad Visual Arts Academy, established in 2014, offers a wide variety of art classes such as theory of art, painting and ceramics in which the latter has been their area of expertise. The Academy has put this project out to galleries worldwide, in the hopes of connecting and uniting cultures through a theme that can be interpreted in many different ways.

BaCA is located at 41 NE 1st St, Pompano Beach, FL 33060.

For more information, please visit http://www.baileyarts.org/ or call 954-284-0141.

*Image Caption: Art work by Anthony Stellaccio encompasses earth from his father's grave, his mother's home, his birth place and graves in New Orleans.

Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) in Pompano Beach is proud to collaborate with Ad Visual Arts Academy in Tehran, Iran for a global exhibit of ceramic and mixed media works that explores the idea of "Borders" versus "Frontiers." The first "Frontier" exhibition was held in Khaneh-Honarmandan, Tehran, one of the most prestigious art centers in Iran. In addition to the Iran-based exhibit, four international curators were called to collaborate and invite artists in their country to hold exhibitions.

Related link: http://www.baileyarts.org/

Recent Social Unrest Inspires ‘Fear Google’ Artist to ‘Grave Rob’ Muhammad Ali, Bruce Lee for Work of Art

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- A ground-breaking work of art by the "Fear Google" artist XVALA is set to be debuted on August 19 during the March on Google (#MarchOnGoogle) in Mountain View, California. Dubbed "The Diversity Belt," XVALA plans to wear his latest work of art in public at the March On Google to publicly share his point of view regarding Americans' First Amendment rights.

"The Diversity Belt" is a championship style belt emblazoned with the slogan "The Greatest of All Time" or "G.O.A.T." The belt includes items collected from the grave sites of Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee that are affixed next to photographs of the icons, along with a portrait of the artist, XVALA, in the center. The Belt was created to spark peaceful debate over American's first amendment rights to express diverse ideas and thoughts and Google's involvement in suppressing those ideas and thoughts.

"Google demonstrates a monopolistic power to censor all," said XVALA.

"The Diversity Belt" is designed to address America's growing cultural divide in regards to diversity and the rights of citizen's to express their beliefs on diversity.

"By manipulating search results to reflect their own political biases and creating a fear based work environment, our first amendment rights are slowly being deteriorated by Google," said XVALA.

In recent news, Google terminated a young engineer for writing a memo that expressed his views about Google's political bias silencing opposing opinions within an environment that claims to accept diversity in world views.

"The Diversity Belt," as an expression of positivity, aims to remind Google that solutions come in many forms if you are willing to seek them out.

"I am like Bruce Lee and Muhammad Ali, they are some of the greatest fighters of all time and I am the greatest fighter against new forms of censorship," said XVALA.

XVALA is a world famous artist who is controversial both inside and outside the art world for his "Fear Google" campaign and his stance on the loss of privacy. XVALA recently made international headlines for announcing "No Delete," an exhibition of hacked images of Jennifer Lawrence and Kate Upton's nude photos, showcasing our loss of control in the internet age.

The belt will not be for sale; as of now as it is strictly meant to spark peaceful debate over citizen's first amendment right to express diverse ideas and thoughts without fear of censorship.

For more information contact XVALA at (510) 833-6760 or visit http://www.xvala.com/.

*PHOTOS for Media:
(1) Send2Press.com/300dpi/17-0816s2p-xvala1-300dpi.jpg

(2) Send2Press.com/300dpi/17-0816s2p-xvala2-300dpi.jpg

(3) Send2Press.com/300dpi/17-0816s2p-xvala3-300dpi.jpg

*Photo Caption: Dubbed "The Diversity Belt," XVALA plans to wear his latest work of art in public at the #MarchOnGoogle.

A ground-breaking work of art by the "Fear Google" artist XVALA is set to be debuted on August 19 during the March on Google in Mountain View, California. Dubbed "The Diversity Belt," XVALA plans to wear his latest work of art in public at the March On Google to publicly share his point of view regarding Americans' First Amendment rights.

Related link: http://www.xvala.com/

Bernard Walsh Joins Ranks Of Trial Attorneys Immortalized By Irish Portrait Artist Trevor Goring

BRADENTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The likeness of Bernard F. Walsh has been added to the Trial Lawyers National Portrait Gallery, a collection of paintings from world-renowned portrait artist Trevor Goring.

Attorney Bernard Walsh from the Bradenton office of Shapiro Goldman Babboni Fernandez & Walsh has joined the ranks of notable lawyers from across the nation in the 'Contemporary Portraits Collection' of the Trial Lawyers National Portrait Gallery.

Created by Artist Trevor Goring, Trial Lawyers National Portrait Gallery is a large body of work showcasing unique portraits which document and celebrate the contemporary and historical trial lawyer community.

Trial lawyers are committed to insuring that all people see justice in our nation's courtrooms. They strive to promote justice and fairness for injured persons, safeguards victims' rights, particularly the right to trial by jury, and strengthen the civil justice system. Trial lawyers work tirelessly to serve their clients for positive outcomes and protect the democratic values inherent in the civil justice system.

Bernard Walsh had this to say about being included in the Trial Lawyers National Portrait Gallery, "Few things shape the society we live in, and have as much impact on the success and happiness of the people in our nation as much as law and our legal system. Every year attorneys work, study and strive to better represent clients and strengthen the legal system as a whole, yet few in the public will think about the role lawyers have in our day to day lives.

"Having a renowned artist such as Trevor Goring dedicate so much of his creative energy to record so many dedicated attorneys is wonderful. I am honored to have been included in this exceptional group and thank Trevor for his fine work."

The portrait of Attorney Bernard F. Walsh and many other attorneys can be viewed online at the Trial Lawyer National Portrait Gallery.

About Attorney Bernard Walsh:

Bernard Walsh is an active member in multiple legal organizations including the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers, the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, member of the Florida Justice Association Board of Governors, and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.

A partner at the Personal Injury law firm of Shapiro, Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez and Walsh; Bernard Walsh has won one of Florida's largest motorcycle accident recoveries and has an AV Preeminent(r) rating on Martindale-Hubbell(r), and is a Superb rated attorney with Avvo.com.

Shapiro Goldman Babboni Fernandez & Walsh
5291 Office Park Boulevard, Bradenton FL, 34203
Local: 941-752-7200

More at: http://www.GetMejustice.com/.

The likeness of Bernard F. Walsh has been added to the Trial Lawyers National Portrait Gallery, a collection of paintings from world-renowned portrait artist Trevor Goring. Trial lawyers are committed to insuring that all people see justice in our nation's courtrooms.

Related link: http://www.getmejustice.com/

Celebrate Art beginning June 30 with the 2017 Laguna Art-A-Fair

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Laguna Art-A-Fair is one of the premier fine arts summer destinations in Southern California and has been for more than 50 years. Our artists invite you to Celebrate Art beginning June 30, 2017 with a full spectrum of unique original creations, affordable reproductions, art demonstrations, workshops, live music and excellent cuisine.

The festival features over 120 fine artists and artisans from around the world. Stroll the festival grounds and be entranced by the imagination and originality that surround you. Take advantage of the opportunity to watch artists as they create new masterpieces and share the sources of their inspiration and special techniques that make their art truly unique.

Daily art workshops provide a rewarding opportunity for beginning and intermediate artists who are at least 16 years old to learn new techniques and expand their artistic horizons. Taught by award-winning professional artists, class size is limited to six students to maximize personal attention. Weekly classes offer four hour and two hour sessions in Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor, Mixed Media, Jewelry and Leather Work with all supplies included.

Thursdays through Sundays, enjoy a wide variety of live music performed by favorite local musicians with dancing in the entertainment courtyard. Savor award-winning margaritas and south-of-the-border snacks and entrees at Tivoli Too!, the full-service restaurant retreat located on the festival grounds.

A giant art palette landmark has been added at the festival front entrance and the entryway features a fresh new look. The art booth layout has been redesigned for easier airflow and navigation and the entertainment courtyard upgraded with a dance floor and comfortable seating.

Celebrate Art this summer with Laguna Art-A-Fair! Open daily from June 30 through September 3, 2017. Further information is available at http://art-a-fair.com or 949-494-4514.

Laguna Art-A-Fair
PO Box 547, Laguna Beach, CA 92652
Web: http://art-a-fair.com/.

CALENDAR LISTING:
Event Name: Laguna Art-A-Fair
Event Date: June 30, 2017 - September 3, 2017.
Event Location: 777 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.
Admission: Season Pass - Adults $8; Seniors (65+), Military, Students $6; Children 12 & under FREE with Adult; 'Pageant of the Masters' ticket holders admitted free on the day of ticketed performance.
Contact: info@art-a-fair.com or 949-494-4514
Description: Your summer destination for original fine arts, crafts, and affordable reproductions along with art workshops and demonstrations, live entertainment and great cuisine at Tivoli Too!

Twitter: @lagunaartafair #lagunaartafair

MULTIMEDIA:
* PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0626s2p-whitacre-300dpi.jpg
* Photo Caption: Laguna Art-A-Fair entry sculpture by Ron Whitacre. (Photo credit: Jay Mason).

Laguna Art-A-Fair is one of the premier fine arts summer destinations in Southern California and has been for more than 50 years. Our artists invite you to Celebrate Art beginning June 30, 2017 with a full spectrum of unique original creations, affordable reproductions, art demonstrations, workshops, live music and excellent cuisine.

Related link: http://art-a-fair.com/

Pompano Beach CRA Announces City Vista Artist in Residence Program

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) - pompanobeachcra.com - has issued a call for artists of all disciplines to submit applications for the City Vista Artist in Residence (AiR) program. City Vista is a mixed-use apartment building located in the heart of the developing downtown district.

Artists must meet income requirements to be eligible to rent the one-and two-bedroom apartments. Prospective artists in residence will be provided leasing applications as soon as they become available from the Landmark Developers. Artists are encouraged to submit a portfolio of their artistic work to innovate@copbfl.com.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for artists to live in an urban, dynamic new downtown community," said Jody Leshinsky, Cultural Executive Director. "The Artist in Residence program will facilitate the success of City Vista, while also promoting the Pompano Beach's cultural arts scene, attracting and retaining talented individuals in the developing downtown, and providing a steady stream of volunteers to participate in the City's growing cultural arts brand."

Artists who apply to live in City Vista, and are accepted for residency, will receive various discounts, promotion opportunities, and special access to classes and events at the cultural centers in exchange for occasionally volunteering at cultural-related events and promoting Pompano Beach Arts. Volunteer opportunities will be available to participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants must volunteer to benefit from promotion opportunities, discounts and special access to events and classes.

City Vista is within walking distance from three dynamic cultural venues - the historic Ali Cultural Arts Center, the historic Bailey Contemporary Arts, and the new Pompano Beach Cultural Center and Library. Program participants will be eligible to accumulate a specified number of coupons per year.

The Artist in Residence Program is cashless, therefore participants will receive coupons that can only be redeemed at the Downtown Cultural Centers.

City Vista is a rent-regulated development; therefore, applicants must meet certain financial criteria. Income limits for a family of four range from $21,750 to $43,500 with one-bedroom rents from $408-$816, and two-bedroom rents from $489 to $979. For complete criteria please visit http://www.broward.org/BrowardHousingCouncil/.

City Vista is the result of a public-private partnership between Landmark Developers, LLC and the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA); the CRA contributed the land upon which City Vista is being built.

Artists are encouraged to submit a portfolio of their artistic work to innovate@copbfl.com. All artists who submit these documents will be notified when City Vista leasing applications are made available by Landmark Developers, LLC. Upon acceptance into City Vista, artists are invited to participate in the Artist in Residence program and will be given access to the volunteer opportunity database. For any questions please contact Emily Marcus, CRA Project Manager, at 954-786-7835.

More information on the CRA: http://pompanobeachfl.gov/index.php/pages/cra/cra

The Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has issued a call for artists of all disciplines to submit applications for the City Vista Artist in Residence (AiR) program. City Vista is a mixed-use apartment building located in the heart of the developing downtown district.

Visual Artist Bernard Hoyes Sculpts ‘Roots of Pegasus’ for Private Collector

PALM DESERT, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Visual artist Bernard Hoyes has accomplished yet another career defining feat. The master craftsman was recently commissioned by a private collector to recreate the divinely celebrated winged stallion Pegasus, one of the best-known creatures in Greek mythology.

The five-foot "Roots of Pegasus" bronze sculpture is currently on display until the end of June as part of the "Below Sea Level" exhibition at the prestigious Melissa Morgan Fine Art Gallery, located at 73040 El Paseo in Palm Desert, Calif.

At the close of the showing, Pegasus will 'fly' home to his owner, an accomplished equestrian whose family has raised horses for over three generations!

Hoyes is world renowned for his inventive creations. His rarified sculptures transcend the norm and defy comparison. For instance, in 2007, Hoyes journeyed to the Fuzhou City in the Fujian Province of China to craft a six foot, three-ton granite rock sculpture of a blue fin tuna! His most recent "Roots of Pegasus" is an original in wood and plaster, cast in 100 percent bronze, with white patina and wood rendered on the plaster portion.

Hoyes utilized symbolism as a tool to express the mythological details of Pegasus' legend. The branches used for the mane of the horse recall Pegasus' origin, as he was birthed from the goddess Medusa, known for her hair of living venomous snakes. The roots represent his metamorphosis and the trials and exploits he traversed on earth before fulfilling his destiny, rising into heaven as a winged steed and immortalized as a star constellation. The entire work weighs in at 1,176 pounds!

Hoyes is primarily recognized as a contemporary painter whose work evolves from a highly intuitive space. He is heralded for his ability to capture spiritual realms on canvas in radiant and brilliant essence. Born into a family rooted in Jamaica's revivalist church, Hoyes' memories of religion and rituals have influenced his artistic productivity throughout his life.

His celebration of traditional African religion, spirituality and myths continues to find universal appeal, exciting audiences worldwide. Oprah Winfrey, Natalie Cole, Steve Harvey, Keenan Ivory Wayans and the National Urban League are among his collectors. Selections of Hoyes' work have been featured in several television shows including the Showtime cult classic series, "Dexter." President Barack Obama has even been photographed in front of his work.

Hoyes' exhibition history spans over 50 years with over 100 exhibitions, 30 of them solo, in various countries including his native Jamaica, USA, U.K., The Netherlands, and Germany. Some of Hoyes' past exhibitions include "Places and Validation, Art & Progression, The Getty Initiative Pacific Standard Time" in 2010; the "Art in LA 1945-1980" at CAAM in 2011; a feature in "L.A. Rising: SoCal Artists before 1980," published by the Getty Foundation and "Se7en Paintings, a Multidisciplinary Performance" which brought Hoyes' art to life on the Ford Stage in Los Angeles in 2012.

Most recent exhibits include the "Evolving Abstraction, 3 Contemporary Artists of the African Diaspora" at the Palm Springs Art Museum in Feb. 2015 and "The Spirit of the Land," at the Desert Art Collection in Palm Desert, Calif. in 2015.

The Museum of African American Art (MAAA) will present a thirty-year review of his stunning collection with the exhibit, "Evolving Art Practice, Rags to the Revival Series, which opens Sunday, July 2 and runs through Sunday, September 24, 2017.

The presentation will juxtapose two of Hoyes' defining methodologies. His "Rag Series" is a spontaneous technique, using a rag laden with ink, cast onto paper as a fisherman would cast his net in the sea. When lifted a print remains suggesting and delineating forms, mass and movement. Hoyes then adds details that further lift the imagery into compositions with vitality and power. In contrast, his popular "Revival Series" reflects the vibrancy of his Jamaica roots in living primary colors. Hoyes conveys rhythmic movement, deliberate intensity and spiritual forwardness that splashes across the canvas.

The Museum of African American Art is located on the third floor of Macy's in Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, at 4005 Crenshaw Blvd. in Los Angeles, Calif.

Whether sculpting mythological figures or evoking spirits with paints, Bernard Hoyes continues to present his art as a medium that inspires viewers to transcend into new dimensions. View his work in person at the Melissa Morgan Art Gallery and the MAAA or visit his online gallery at http://www.bernardhoyes.com/.

Media Contact:
Makeda Smith
Jazzmyne Public Relations
makeda@jazzmynepr.com
323-380-8819

Visual artist Bernard Hoyes has accomplished yet another career defining feat. The master craftsman was recently commissioned by a private collector to recreate the divinely celebrated winged stallion Pegasus, one of the best-known creatures in Greek mythology. The five-foot "Roots of Pegasus" bronze sculpture is currently on display until the end of June.

The City of Pompano Beach Announces Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for The Pompano Beach Cultural Center and Library

POMPANO Beach, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Pompano Beach is delighted to announce that the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the Pompano Beach Cultural Center (www.ccpompano.org) and Library will take place on Thursday, May 11 at 5:30 p.m. Following the ceremony, the venue will be open to the public to view the world premiere Cuban art exhibit, "Shipwrecked of Reason: Half a Century in Cuban Art."

Guests will also enjoy live performances throughout the building. This celebration of music, dance and theatre has been conceived by the acclaimed director Michael McKeever and is entitled "Imagine: A Celebration of the Creative Mind." This presentation is proudly sponsored by OHL Building and presented by Bateman, Gordon & Sands.

Thanks to the determination and foresight of City and County visionaries, Pompano Beach will join the ranks of other great municipalities who have a state-of-the-art facility which serves as a beacon for culture and learning. The two-story structure, which spans 47,000 square feet, will encompass the Cultural Center (which includes an art gallery, a digital media arts center and a flexible space for performances/special events) and the new Broward County Library, opening this summer.

"My hope is that the Center fills a niche that no one else can offer; providing educational opportunities with the media center; providing opportunities for new and upcoming artists to display their talents; offering a venue for weddings, private corporate events; and showcasing our all-around and well-rounded City as one of the finest in America," said Mayor Lamar Fisher.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Latin American Art Pavilion, the Center garnered an art world coup by securing the world premiere exhibit "Shipwrecked of Reason: Half a Century in Cuban Art." On loan from the Cuban government, this exhibit features the top 20 Cuban contemporary artists and is curated by the internationally renowned, Isabel María Perez Perez, who is the Chief Curator Editora Ejecutiva del sello ArteCuban. She is regarded as the leading authority on contemporary Cuban art and is celebrated as one of the top curators worldwide.

Her expertise has resulted in a multitude of projects spanning the globe; from curating internationally acclaimed exhibits to presenting symposiums on the contemporary art movement in Cuba.

Perez Perez will be in south Florida for several days offering symposiums and attending the rest of the opening festivities. The Center's first fundraiser, The Preview Party, which is proudly sponsored by Sabbia Beach and presented by Pompano! Magazine, will take place on Friday, May 12, 2017. Havana Nights, which is proudly sponsored by JetBlue, will include a VIP reception for the renowned curator along with performances by two-time Grammy winner, Marlow Rosado.

The Pompano Beach Cultural Center is located at 50 W. Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach. More information about upcoming programming is available at http://www.ccpompano.org/.

The City of Pompano Beach is delighted to announce that the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the Pompano Beach Cultural Center and Library will take place on Thursday, May 11, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. Following the ceremony, the venue will be open to the public to view the world premiere Cuban art exhibit, "Shipwrecked of Reason: Half a Century in Cuban Art."

Artist Recreates The Infamous Boston Massacre

SOUTHBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Nationally renowned Southbury Connecticut artist-historian Don Troiani has unveiled his painting of the momentous Boston Massacre. That encounter on a cold March night set forth a series of antagonistic events that climaxed in the start of the American Revolution 5 years later.

Most people today are familiar with the famous Paul Revere engraving of the subject, but that was a carefully crafted propaganda piece designed to demonize the British and not to accurately reflect what really transpired.

Using actual accounts from original trial depositions, consultations with historians and in-depth research into the material culture of the time, Troiani was able to recreate this seismic event as it would have appeared to an actual participant.

Troiani's artwork is represented in many institutions nationwide including the Smithsonian Institute, West Point Museum, National Park Service, Pentagon, Washington Monument, Booth Museum of Western Art and private collections.

The Boston Massacre was a defining moment in American history. Sparked by a barber's apprentice taunting a British officer over an unpaid bill, it was the culmination of growing tensions between the town's inhabitants and soldiers of the King's army since they arrived in Boston on October 1, 1768.

On March 5, 1770 Private Hugh White of the 29th Regiment of Foot was standing guard before the Customs House in Boston. Having witnessed Edward Garrick verbally assault Lieutenant - Captain John Goldfinch, he reprimanded the youth with a strike to his head with his firelock. This ignited a fuse of retaliation. A "motley rabble of saucy boys, negroes and molattoes, Irish teagues and outlandish jack tarrs" swarmed upon White with clubs and staves. Overwhelmed, the sentry called out for relief.

As the mob continued to grow and become more violent, church bells began to ring. Corporal William Wemms managed to lead a guard of six grenadiers from the 29th Regiment to relieve the sentry. Unable to escape to the main guard house, they formed a semicircular line and leveled their bayonets at the breasts of their adversaries. Within moments, Captain Thomas Preston worked his way to take command.

Within the chaos, many individuals stood out. Henry Knox and Richard Palmes both approached Captain Preston and inquired if his men would fire upon the inhabitants. Benjamin Burdick, a Town House Watchman, struck a soldier's firelock with a Scottish broadsword.

As the crowd grew more and more agitated, a man in a dark gold trimmed suit walked behind the soldiers and encouraged them to fire. Without warning a shot rang out. Crispus Attucks, a mulatto sailor, fell to the ground.

After the smoke cleared that cold winter's evening, blood spattered the snow. Three men lay dead, a man and boy lay mortally wounded, six men were taken away to recover from their wounds and a day of infamy was recorded in the annals of American history.

Learn more: http://www.dontroiani.com/.

*PHOTO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0301s2p-bostonmassc-300dpi.jpg

Nationally renowned Southbury Connecticut artist-historian Don Troiani has unveiled his painting of the momentous Boston Massacre. That encounter on a cold March night set forth a series of antagonistic events that climaxed in the start of the American Revolution 5 years later.

Laguna Art-A-Fair hosts a Call for Artists Jury Day on Feb. 12, 2017

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Laguna Art-A-Fair announces a Call for Artists Jury Day on Sunday, February 12 with an opportunity to join one of California's premier summer fine art festivals. Artists and artisans may enter three pieces of their original artwork along with a $40 jury fee from 8 - 11 a.m. at the Boys and Girls Club, 1085 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.

Artwork pick-up and jury scores are provided from 4 - 4:30 p.m. with a complete prospectus available at http://art-a-fair.com/call-for-artists-2/.

For over 50 years the Laguna Art-A-Fair has enabled established and emerging artists to display their best creations to the tens of thousands of art-lovers that visit Laguna Beach each summer. This year's festival runs from June 30 to September 3, 2017. Visitors can choose from a broad spectrum of affordable original fine art, crafts, and reproductions.

There are daily art workshop classes, frequent art demonstrations, and live entertainment on Thursdays through Sundays. Excellent cuisine and renowned margaritas are also available at Tivoli Too!, a restaurant retreat on the festival grounds.

Laguna Art-A-Fair
PO Box 547, Laguna Beach, CA 92652
Web: http://art-a-fair.com/ .

CALENDAR LISTING:
Event Name: Laguna Art-A-Fair Call for Artists Jury Day.
Event Date: February 12, 2017.
Event Location: Boys & Girls Club, 1085 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.
Admission: $40 jury fee with 3 original artworks per media
Contact: info@art-a-fair.com
Description: Call for Artists Jury Day on February 12, 2017, 8-11am at Boys & Girls Club, 1085 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach 92651. Three pieces of original artwork and $40 jury fee per each media submitted for entry into Summer 2017 Festival. Prospectus available at: http://art-a-fair.com/call-for-artists-2/.

*PHOTO for Media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0112s2p-rivera-300dpi.jpg

*PHOTO CAPTION: Laguna Art-A-Fair artist Hugo Rivera demonstrates his signature technique on a portrait of fellow artist Victor Dworak. (Photo credit: Al Gerk.)

The Laguna Art-A-Fair announces a Call for Artists Jury Day on Sunday, February 12, 2017 with an opportunity to join one of California's premier summer fine art festivals. Artists and artisans may enter three pieces of their original artwork along with a $40 jury fee from 8 - 11 a.m. at the Boys and Girls Club, 1085 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.

Andy Warhol Discovered as an Honor Roll Student in Document – First Printed Mention of Warhol’s Name

LAS VEGAS, Nev. /ScoopCloud/ -- A newly discovered piece of Andy Warhol History is up for sale by The Metallic Art Gallery on eBay. It shows the great artist's name as Andrew Warhola in a student honor roll document deserving of an Honorable Mention for his performance in his first semester of the ninth grade at Schenley High School in Pittsburgh.

It is also the first printed mention of Andy Warhol's name, adding to this new insight on Warhol. As its owner, Mr. Samaniego of Metallic Art Gallery, who has studied on Warhol's life and works for the past five years, has also discovered more Warhol history on this document.

Andy Warhol was best friends with Ellie Simon through high school. She also went on with him through college and then off to New York to live with him and other college friends. Ellie has also been discovered on this same Honor Roll document as deserving of an Honorable Mention for her performance.

This adds new documentary insight and history to their friendship in high school, which is talked about in various Warhol biography books.

This rare piece of Warhol history is now being offered on eBay at http://www.ebay.com/itm/122285756498 by The Metallic Art Gallery.

For more information, you can also contact them at http://www.themetallicartgallery.com/.

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0111s2p-warhol-300dpi.jpg

A newly discovered piece of Andy Warhol History is up for sale by The Metallic Art Gallery on eBay. It shows the great artist's name as Andrew Warhola in a student honor roll document deserving of an Honorable Mention for his performance in his first semester of the ninth grade at Schenley High School in Pittsburgh.

Beyond Baroque to Mark 50th Anniversary in 2018

VENICE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Beyond Baroque, one of the nation's leading independent Literary Arts Centers, is planning a year-long celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2018. Guided by the nonprofit's Executive Director, Richard Modiano, and council of prominent artist-curators, a program of activities commencing January 1, 2018, will take place at Beyond Baroque's Venice location and in venues throughout Los Angeles.

"Beyond Baroque has an incredible record of cultivating some of the most innovative and widely influential literature and art to come out of Los Angeles over the past 50 years," said Modiano. "We aim to nurture the next 50 years of cutting-edge Los Angeles poetry, literature, and art."

Special features of Beyond Baroque's 50th Anniversary will include:

• The commissioning of new works for performance and publication from major writers and rising stars in fiction, poetry, and non-fiction.
• A series of public dialogs between poets and prominent artists, performers, community leaders, and thinkers on the intersection of poetry and culture.
• The selection of diverse guest curators to organize a major festival of multidisciplinary artistic events and community gatherings at Beyond Baroque and in neighborhoods all over Los Angeles, spotlighting the many literary and artistic communities that make LA one of the world's richest cultural centers.
• Appearances and performances by prominent Beyond Baroque alumni and friends.

The Center's busy calendar of events will showcase Beyond Baroque's extensive roster of talent as well as exciting new voices drawn from Los Angeles' diverse literary communities. The celebrations will be highlighted by Beyond Baroque's 50th anniversary gala in November 2018, at which honors will be awarded recognizing the achievements of selected poets, writers and artists.

About Beyond Baroque:

Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center is one of the nation's most successful and influential grassroots incubators of literary art. Founded in 1968, and housed in the original Venice City Hall building in Venice, California, it is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public space dedicated to cultivating new writing and expanding the public's knowledge of poetry, fiction, literature, and art through cultural events and community interaction.

The Center offers a diverse variety of literary and arts programming, including readings, workshops, art exhibits, and education. The Center also houses a bookstore with the largest collection of new poetry books on the west side of Los Angeles; the Mike Kelley Gallery, which specializes in text and language-focused visual art; and a 50,000 volume archive of small press and limited-edition publications that chronicles the history of poetry movements in Los Angeles and beyond.

Few literary spaces have done more to cultivate innovative art from cultural outsiders, or to shape emerging artistic movements. Across five decades Beyond Baroque has nurtured the Venice Beats, cradled the Los Angeles punk scene, and provided crucial support to a series of seminal experimental writers and artists that include Dennis Cooper, Kate Braverman, Mike Kelley, and Will Alexander.

Its legendary free workshops have profoundly shaped Los Angeles literature by helping to launch a number of influential careers, including those of Wanda Coleman, Tom Waits, Leland Hickman, Bob Flanagan, Eloise Klein Healy, David Trinidad, Jim Krusoe, Exene Cervenkova, Amy Gerstler, Paul Vangelisti, Harry Northup, Brendan Constantine, Jenny Factor, and Sarah Maclay. It's reading and performance series have exposed L.A. audiences to some of the world's most notable writers and artists, often at early stages in their careers, including Allen Ginsberg, Amiri Baraka, Raymond Carver, X, Patti Smith, Viggo Mortensen, Michael Ondaatje, Chris Kraus, Eileen Myles, Luis J. Rodriguez, Dana Gioia, Hector Tobar, David St. John, Robin Coste Lewis, and Maggie Nelson.

Today the Center continues to provide a vital cultural forum through its free workshops, reading series, youth programming, and artistic gatherings. Learn more at: http://www.beyondbaroque.org/.

Beyond Baroque's Mission:

Beyond Baroque's mission is to encourage the writing, reading, publication, dissemination, and preservation of contemporary literature through programming, education, archiving, and services in literature and the arts.

Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center, 681 Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291. Phone: (310) 822-3006.

Beyond Baroque, one of the nation's leading independent Literary Arts Centers, is planning a year-long celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2018. Guided by the nonprofit's Executive Director, Richard Modiano, and council of prominent artist-curators, a program of activities commencing January 1, 2018, will take place at Beyond Baroque's Venice location and in venues throughout Los Angeles.

Venice HVAC Company Mahle Cool Air Sponsors Sarasota Chalk Fest Artist Craig Thomas

VENICE, Fla., Nov. 20, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Mahle Cool Air and Heating returned as a sponsor for the Sarasota Chalk festival. The week long event featured artists from the across the country as well as artists from outside the United States creating large murals in colorful chalk on the streets and sidewalks of Venice island.

Known nationally and internationally, the annual Sarasota Chalk festival draws spectators in the thousands from all walks of life and from points around the globe. Originally taking place in downtown Sarasota, the festival has outgrown the parking and logistical ability of the downtown area, and has since been relocated to beautiful Venice Island where close proximity to the large amounts of space at the Venice Municipal Airport, combine with a central location and the attractions of Venice Island to make the ideal location.

Since the move, many more people have access to view the works of art before rain and weather washes the elaborate chalk paintings away. The temporary nature of the art is part of the allure that brings so many out to view the works.

Mahle Cool Air and Heating a local HVAC company, has once again taken part in this important community event by sponsoring freelance artist Craig Thomas.

A resident of Cape Girardeau Missouri, Craig Thomas as become known for his murals, chalk art and other fine art works. Thomas's career has taken him to locations from North America to Europe and include works for private commissions, commercial projects and students.

Owner Denny Mahle offered this comment about being a sponsor of the Sarasota Chalk Festival, "This is one of the largest community events that take place in Venice each year and is a fantastic way to bring people of our community together to enjoy these amazing works of art. The artwork is always stunning, and it is really special to see the streets of Venice Island lined with these colorful and expressive artworks."

He added, "At Mahle Cool Air we feel it is important to stay involved with our community and supporting the Chalk Festival is a great way to do that. The talented artists come from around the country and invest their hard work and time to make the festival a success which in turn brings more people to our area. The public nature of the event is also nice because many do not have the opportunity see the actual works of art, will be able to see dozens of original works all in one place at no cost."

About Mahle Cool Air:

Mahle Cool Air and Heating is a family owned and operated HVAC company in Venice, Florida. Mahle Cool Air is a Bryant Factory Authorized dealer with technicians with over 28 years of experience. All of Mahle's technicians are NATE Certified and specialize in residential AC repair, new unit installation and maintenance plans for residents in Sarasota and Charlotte Counties including, Sarasota, Venice, North Port and Englewood. Mahle Cool Air and Heating strives for great customer service, competitive prices, and offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.

For more information visit our website at: http://www.MahleAirConditioning.com/.

Mahle Cool Air & Heating
726 Commerce Dr., #107, Venice, FL 34292.
Venice: 941-584-6300
Englewood: 941-475-9601
Cape Haze: 941-697-1995

* PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-1120-Denny-Mahle-300dpi.jpg

* Photo Caption: Owner Denny Mahle with a Chalk Festival Mural, Venice, Florida.

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NEWS SOURCE Mahle Cool Air and Heating :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Grant Hier, Laguna College of Art and Design Chair Nominated for Pushcart Prize

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif., Nov. 13, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD) announced Grant Hier, Chair of Liberal Arts and Art History, has been nominated for the prestigious Pushcart Prize. Hier was nominated as an author and will choose which works he wishes to submit to Pushcart judges for consideration for inclusion in their revered annual anthology.

"It is wonderful just to be nominated and associated with such company," Hier said.

Previous Pushcart Prize honorees include such notable names as Raymond Carver, Junot Diaz, Kathy Acker, Andre Dubus, William H. Gass, Tim O'Brien and Kay Ryan - Poet Laureates, MacArthur "Genius" Fellowship recipients, New York Times bestsellers, and winners of the Pulitzer Prize, the National Book Award, PEN/O. Henry and PEN/Faulkner Award, plus many others.

"I am honored beyond words," said Hier. "This is a dream come true."

"We are thrilled to see Grant's work receive the national attention and accolades it deserves," said LCAD President Jonathan Burke. "His work reveals an artist's eye for detail as well as a passion for his community and our shared history. Not only is he dedicated to his writing, but also to his students, who look to him for guidance and inspiration. We are very fortunate that Grant is part of our LCAD family." Hier has taught at LCAD since 1998.

In February 2015, Hier's book-length poem, "Untended Garden-Histories and Reinhabitation in Suburbia," was published by The Poetry Press and awarded the 2014 Prize Americana.

For more information about LCAD please visit: http://www.lcad.edu/.

About Laguna College of Art and Design:

Founded in 1961, Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD) is one of the top art and design schools in the nation. LCAD offers undergraduate degrees (BFA) in Animation, Design + Digital Media, Fine Arts (Drawing and Painting), Game Art and Illustration, as well as Master of Fine Arts degrees (MFA) in Drawing and Painting and Game Development. Named by NIKE as one of the top three design schools in the world, LCAD is closely partnered with industry leaders such as Blizzard Entertainment, Disney Animation, DreamWorks, FOX, Hurley International, NIKE, VANS, Warner Brothers Animation and more.

For more information about LCAD visit http://www.lcad.edu/. Facebook at @LCADBFA, Twitter @LCAD and Instagram @lcadbfa.

* PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-1113-Grant-Hier-300dpi.jpg

* Photo Caption: Grant Hier, Chair of Liberal Arts and Art History at Laguna College of Art and Design has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/grant-hier-laguna-college-of-art-and-design-chair-nominated-for-pushcart-prize-2015-1113-05.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Laguna College of Art and Design :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Excessivism is Best Kept Secret in the Art World

LOS ANGELES, Calif., Nov. 2, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Art collectors have something to get excited about. It's a new global art movement called "Excessivism" and its early adopters date back to the late twentieth century. The movement's founder, American artist Kaloust Guedel, explains that Excessivism is a commentary on economic materialism.

"The art reflects and examines the excessive desire to acquire material goods beyond one's needs and often means," he says.

With little or no consideration for human and environmental consequences, but with incomparable contribution to economic growth, employment and prosperity, Excessivism portrays how a capitalistic society operates and communicates through various techniques and styles.

A recent exhibit, "Excessivist Initiative," displayed works from 21 artists who examined and reflected on society's attitude towards material values. For instance, these artists portrayed the excessively generous use of resources in contemporary circumstances.

Guedel is one of the leading voices in the space of this contemporary art movement and says that the art world should take note.

And, he's not the only one. According to a San Diego-based art adviser, Aldis Browne, historically collectible art involves movements and the influences artists have on the successive generations.

For example, the pop art movement and specifically, the work of Jeff Koons, was part of a generation of artists who explored the meaning of art in a media-saturated era. His works sold for substantial sums of money, including at least one world record auction price for a work by a living artist.

Guedel says that Koons' culturally relevant work introduced glamour into pop art and that Excessivism too delivers an important message, but with a seductive allure. We're on the brink of an artistic revolution."

So, who are the van Goghs or Picassos of the contemporary art world today? Excessivism may just be the movement that delivers a generation of artists who will be revered for years to come.

About the Founder:

American artist Kaloust Guedel was born in 1956. He describes himself as a "self-educated artist." Since 1975, he has lived and worked in Los Angeles. His work explores contemporary issues and often takes a critical stand on various shortcomings present in today's society. Despite varying styles and techniques, his work has been consistent with contemporary sensibility and has reflected the consciousness of its time.

More information: http://www.excessivism.com/.

* IMAGE: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-1102-guedel-art-300dpi.jpg

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NEWS SOURCE Kaloust Guedel :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Fine Art Investment Firm ArteQuesta Proves Tech Isn’t Just for Silicon Valley

MILL VALLEY, Calif., Oct. 12, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- ArteQuesta announces its new software for art collectors, the Art Portfolio Management System. "From a collector's standpoint, our software offers simplicity for managing a collection without cutting corners or lowering standards," comments Rayah Levy, ArteQuesta's Founder and Director.

"This software allows our clients to open their portfolio with us and track the performance of their art, similar to other financial assets. It's also available to collectors who aren't our direct clients because we recognize the importance of this tool in the global market."

Pointing to Deloitte's latest Art & Finance Report, Levy believes there will be an increase in demand for professional wealth management services in relation to art and art collections.

"In 2014, 76 percent of art purchases were made for the art's potential as an investment. The 2015 statistics show this percentage will grow. Increasingly, art professionals (76 percent) and art collectors (62 percent) believe art and collectibles should be integrated into wealth management offerings, which are opening new areas in an untapped market.

"Although those within the art industry have been welcoming this trend with excitement, the market itself has been slow in reacting to demands the influx of new investors bring, resulting in the creation of the Portfolio Management System."

As part of its mission, ArteQuesta hopes to dispel the myth that art investment is the sole reserve of the ultra-wealthy. Levy believes that making all aspects of the process user friendly is essential to catering to the ever-growing market.

"We want people to know you don't need to spend large sums of money to make a good investment in art. Though some of our artwork is at higher values, we have a number of artworks that are viable investments for median-level incomes.

"Most people aren't aware of how to begin investing in art and we want to change that. This is why the timing of our software is vital. Just as we're making the art world more accessible to the masses, we're also making it easier to navigate by directly removing the most common and significant hurdles - provenance and verification of ownership."

Levy states, "The Portfolio Management System was designed with provenance and verification in mind specifically because ArteQuesta's most personal mission is to preserve Jewish and Israeli Art. In almost all cases in which we've identified and began the process of rescue or recovery, proving authenticity and ownership have been most difficult. As we look to the future with our software, there is unlimited potential for investors, collectors, museums and financial institutions to manage collections of any size, with updated and verifiable certificates of authenticity with ease. Adding the extra layer of tracking certificates of authenticity and ownership on the Blockchain, which will soon be incorporated in our system, will bring additional security to art purchases managed in the Portfolio Management System."

More information: http://www.artequesta.com/.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-0911-artequesta-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @artequesta #Artinvesting

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Alec Monopoly Brings his Street Game

NEW YORK, N.Y., Oct. 8, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Alec Monopoly is at Guy Hepner and he's bringing the streets with him. Who is Alec Monopoly? While his true identity remains a mystery, chances you've been to Los Angeles, New York, Miami or London, you've probably driven past the Monopoly artist's graffiti murals featuring widely-known, wealthy pop-culture figures from childhood, like the Monopoly Man, Richie Rich or Uncle Scrooge, or his interpretations of celebrity icons such as Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan, Jack Nicholson, Goldie Hawn and Twiggy.

The New York graffiti artist has made his mark all over the country, painting the facade of the numerous buildings and hotels including one giant duck at the SLS Hotel, billboards, a double-decker bus, a fleet of supercars and galleries all over including here at Guy Hepner.

"I was playing Monopoly and watching the news, and I saw Bernie Madoff being arrested. And it hit me, it was like a light bulb," says Monopoly.

The New York street artist started painting the Monopoly Man everywhere! Any empty space, billboards or advertisement posters Alec could find, he began spray painting right over it. And of course, with Alec Monopoly graffiti, there comes an Alec Monopoly price. You couldn't even count the number of times this bad boy had run-ins with the law; he's even gone as far as jumping down N.Y. garbage chutes to get away.

He adds, "I like painting for my own happiness. Graffiti is my true passion and I like seeing the reaction of people when they walk by my work and it inspires them."

Alec Monopoly's art for sale stands out for his unconventional graffiti style that is colorful, happy and positive, such as Scrooge Money Bags and Island Graffiti Girl, rather than a gritty, underground representation in a part of the art world associated with crime and vandalism. He uses spray paint, acrylic, resin and newspaper clippings from the Financial Times and Wall Street Journal for most of his work.

Having done gallery shows since 2008, Monopoly is concentrating on Asia in 2015, starting at Armani in Hong Kong during Art Basel. But don't worry, if you're too lazy to fill up the gas of your private jet, you can just browse online at Guy Hepner where we bring exclusive Alec Monopoly paintings and sculptures for sale to you 24 hours a day.

Learn more at: http://www.guyhepner.com/.

Guy Hepner, 568 Broadway #502, New York, NY 10012.
Phone: (212) 226-8680 / Email: info@guyhepner.com

Instagram: http://instagram.com/guyhepner

Twitter: @guyhepner - https://twitter.com/guyhepner

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/alec-monopoly-brings-his-street-game-2015-1008-01.shtml.

Celebrate the Arts at Jeff Fest – July 24-26, 2015

CHICAGO, Ill., July 14, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Imagine dancers hanging high above your head. Or an interactive drum experience for the whole family. Or seeing Hawaiian dancers in your own Chicago neighborhood. All this and more will be at Jeff Fest July 24-26, 2015.

Presented by the Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Jefferson Memorial Park Advisory Council and the Chicago Park District, along with media partner 104.3 K-HITS Chicago. The Festival's proceeds support local student scholarships and help build relationships with local businesses and the community.

The Arts abound!
* Love ballet? Dancers from the Chicago Ballet Center will perform on Saturday and Sunday.
* Giggle out loud with the physical comedy of Vaudeville at Six Corners who will perform on Saturday.
* Hawaii in Chicago? The Hokulea Hawaiian Dancers will bring some island rainbows to the stage on Sunday.
* Join in with the returning John Yost Drum Circle. Bring a drum or build one on Saturday and Sunday.
* Flying or floating? It's Aerial Dance Chicago dancing in mid-air on Saturday.
* Art in the making? Award-winning art teacher and Nadig Newspaper cartoonist Ken Klopack will be drawing caricatures on Saturday. And the C3 Photo Fest returns with their curated photo contest - you get to vote!

Our Arts Stage showcases:
* The hottest emerging bands straight from Martyr's: Purple Door, Aunteaks and The Kelson Twins on Friday night
* Local favorites during the days Saturday and Sunday including Bob Martwick's "Little Egypt" and Celtic & Cajun with a wicked sense of humor from Beth Patterson on Saturday
* The lively salsa of NuBambu on Sunday

Our artists are peppered throughout the vendors' area and pop-up in the park, Four Star Brass Band will lead you for a New Orleans romp through the park, and Sweet Fannie Adams will serenade you while you screen print your own poster.

All this, plus a Kids Zone, with bounce houses, art activities, and family theater.

You won't want to miss out on the food and music either:
* Enjoy taste treats from Gale Street Inn, Leadbelly Burgers, Smilin Dawgs, Caponies, Chicago Cupcake and Creative Cooking.
* Wash that down with drinks from Lake Shore Beverage (Bud Light and Goose Island), Lagunitas, and Brugal Rum.

The popular three-day Jeff Fest Arts & Music Festival runs Friday, July 24 through Sunday, July 26, 2015 and takes place on the grounds of Jefferson Memorial Park and includes a family-picnic area to enjoy the neighborhood food favorites. There are also two stages, a designated Kid's Zone, art to purchase, and a juried photo art competition. Festival tickets can be bought at http://www.jeffersonpark.net/.

The weekend is packed with music, too. Saturday's headline act is Jonathan Jackson + Enation, a anthemic Alt / Rock / Pop three piece from Nashville, Tenn. The band recently released their fourth studio album, Radio Cinematic, through Loud & Proud Records. Rolling Stone says Radio Cinematic is "Filled with electric guitars, chest-beating vocals and swirling synths" while Billboard Magazine calls Jonathan Jackson + Enation a "rock band on the rise." Their Emmy-Award winning frontman is also a well-known actor. Jonathan's acting credits include "Tuck Everlasting," "General Hospital," "Insomnia," & "Nashville," in addition to many other TV and films.

Friday kicks off with some "heavy metal" sound from Eliminator and Blackened, and Sunday features JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound (JCBUS). JCBUS call Chicago its home, and has toured North America and Europe, including playing at Lollapalooza.

Jefferson Memorial Park is located at 4822 N. Long Avenue, just west of Milwaukee Avenue. Fest-goers are encouraged to take public transportation, as the Jefferson Park Metra and CTA Blue Line transportation hub is just a block from the festival grounds. Plenty of bike racks also will be available. Road closures: Linder Avenue and Long Avenue will be blocked off between Higgins and Lawrence Avenue for the three-day festivities.

The fee for admission is $5 per person. It is free for children ages 12 and under, and adults older than 65. And if your name is Jeff, show an ID for free admission. Coolers and liquor are not permitted. Festival hours are Friday, July 24 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, July 25 from Noon to 11 p.m., and Sunday, July 26 from Noon to 8 p.m. Lawn chairs welcome.

For more information, go to http://www.jefffest.org/.

Be sure you are the first to hear of announcements and plans for Jeff Fest and follow @JeffFestChicago on Twitter and Jeff Fest Arts and Music Festival on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jeff-Fest-Arts-Music-Festival/96599731822 .

Media Contact:
Laura Gale
cell: 773-318-3293
fest@jeffersonpark.net

* PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-0714-Ken-Klopack-300dpi.jpg

* Photo Caption: Cartoonist Ken Klopack.

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NEWS SOURCE Jeff Fest Arts and Music Festival :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

From Yard Waste to High Fashion: St. Pete Artists Save Florida Landfills ‘One Accessory at a Time’

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., June 18, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Inspired by environmental sustainability, Scott Durfee and George Medeiros of Spathose will showcase the latest installment of their work with palm spathe in their upcoming show "Spathe" at Cory Allen Contemporary Art's The Showroom next week.

"At first, Scott and I had to go out and look for spathe. Now, people are bringing it to us and even suggesting ideas for the pieces they've collected," said George Medeiros.

Spathe, the remnants discarded from palm trees and most commonly referred to as yard debris, has been the primary medium of Scott and George's work in many different forms over the last decade. Not only artists, they are activists in the environmental sustainability movement and hope to shed light on recreating beauty from what most people abandon simply as trash.

"We have a vision for every piece we do and the natural form of the spathe collected helps guide us to that piece," said Scott Durfee. "We found a way to create stand-alone to functional sculptures, which wearable sculptures has become our primary focus."

Initially creating stand-alone sculptures to be displayed for eyes only, Scott and George wanted more functionality from their work and began creating wearable sculptures. Their wearable sculptures, men's ties, purses, arm bands, necklaces, and now in their latest show, masks, have given them prominent success in the media for their distinctive vision.

"People throw spathe away and we want them to wear it," said George Medeiros. "We are saving Florida landfills one accessory at a time."

Spathe is a truly indigenous, sustainable material that evokes the essence of Florida. Mostly known for their blend of fine art and fashion with their wearable sculptures, Scott and George will be displaying their latest work, as well as, some of their previous work that has been featured in many publications; most recently Handmade Business.

"Spathe" will open to the public at CACA's The Showroom, the world's first public relations gallery, located in the Warehouse Arts District in St. Petersburg, Fla. on June 25, 2015.

For more information, contact Cory Allen at 727-365-0254 or visit either http://www.spathose.com/ or http://www.cacanet.com/.

* PHOTO/IMAGE for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-0618-Spathose-Spathe-CACA-300dpi.jpg

* Caption: "Spathe" by Scott Durfee and George Medeiros. (Photo by Lola Portraits.)

Twitter: @coryallenCACA and @Spathose

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/from-yard-waste-to-high-fashion-st-pete-artists-save-florida-landfills-one-accessory-at-a-time-2015-0618-06.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Cory Allen Contemporary Art :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Laguna College of Art and Design Announces Jonathan Burke Endowed Presidential Scholarship in Celebration of 35th Anniversary

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif., April 27, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD) announced the Jonathan Burke Endowed Presidential Scholarship commemorating Burke's 35 years with the college.

"In my experience, LCAD is the finest of any and all art schools in offering the depth and meaning of representational and figurative art," said American Figurative Painter Jerome Witkin. "This is Jonathan Burke's monument and great gift to our culture."

Named by NIKE as one of the top three design schools in the world, LCAD is closely partnered with Blizzard Entertainment, Disney Animation, DreamWorks, FOX, Hurley International, VANS, Warner Brothers Animation and more.

"LCAD has grown in large part due to Jonathan," said F. Scott Hess, American representational painter and LCAD Fine Art faculty member. "He had the foresight and stubbornness to hang onto representational art when it wasn't popular, and it has paid off."

From 1985 to 2011, Burke was dean of fine arts, co-vice president of Academic Affairs and gallery director at LCAD. Burke oversaw the donation of the Rex and Joan Irving Brandt Papers to LCAD in 2011, which is now available online through Project Gado. In 2013, the Suzanne Chonette Senior Studios opened as state-of-the-art workspace for seniors.

"Everyone should realize that we live in an environment created by artists, whether its products we use, what we see at the movies, what's on our computer screens or art in galleries and museums," said Burke. "Artists are there to make the world a more interesting and beautiful place."

Burke holds a B.F.A. degree in painting from Kansas City Art Institute and M.F.A. degree in painting from Boston University, with post-graduate studies at Skowhegan and New York Studio School. Additional information about the Burke 35th Celebration may be found at http://www.lcad.edu/.

About Laguna College of Art and Design:

Founded in 1961, Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD) is one of the top art and design schools in the nation. LCAD offers undergraduate degrees (BFA) in Animation, Design + Digital Media, Fine Arts (Drawing and Painting), Game Art and Illustration, as well as Master of Fine Art degrees in Game Development, Drawing and Painting. For more information about LCAD visit http://www.lcad.edu/. Facebook at @LCADBFA, Twitter @LCAD and Instagram @lcadbfa.

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