State of the Art: Your Weekly Guide to LA’s Latino Art Openings

“Perspectives” tackled the ideas of Chicano and Latino identity with the help of artists from a variety of aesthetic backgrounds. The works of Luis G. Hernandez, David Rosales, Kathy Sosa, Gregg Stone, and Linda Vallejo explored the complex layers of this identity through works that aren’t afraid to catch your eye. The artists will gather for a panel discussion October 18 from 4 to 6 pm so you can really pick their brains about their art. A gathering with artists from ranging backgrounds and chosen mediums will surely make for an interesting talk.

Pablo Pijnappel – Ambach and Rice

Photo fiends, this weekend has quite the show for you. Photographer Pablo Pijnappel takes sometimes haunting photos of the city and more. The artist was born in Paris to Dutch and Brazilian parents and his show at Ambach and Rice in in Seattle marked his first US solo show. You can now see his work at the same gallery in Los Angeles; the opening reception takes place Saturday, October 20 at 6 p.m. If you can’t make it, the photos will be up until November 17.

Dia de Los Muertos Activities at Mercado la Paloma

Mercado la Paloma, a small ethnic nook that includes plenty of authentic Latino and Hispanic food, has kicked off its own celebration of Dia de Los Muertos. Among the many festivities – including workshops on everything from making sugar candy skulls to creating your own altar – the mercado is hosting an art show entitled “Renaissance 2012.” With work from Mario Sibaja, Elizabeth Retolaza, and more the show focuses on the Mayan calendar and ideas of death, rebirth and all that jazz. Just the right show to get you into the spirit for Dia de Los Muertos – and maybe another debate about whether 2012 really does mean the end of the world. Quien sabe!