State of the Art: Your Weekly Guide to LA’s Latino Art Openings
Art and Activism in the US – Pomona College Museum of Art
For decades now, art proves a legit way for talented artists to express their most complicated, passionate political beliefs. Whether vying for change, raising awareness or supporting a cause, many artists create visual messages that pack a real punch and make viewers stop and think. The Pomona College Museum of Art brings together works from the 1920s on to expose visitors to this tradition of political art-making. “Art and Activism in the US: Selections from the Permanent Collection” opens Tuesday, January 22 at 5 p.m. and features the work of many artists, including Mexican artist Enrique Chagoya. With a closing date set on April 14, there’s plenty of time of to check out the true power of art.
Pomona College Museum of Art Montgomery Art Center 333 N. College Way Claremont, CA 91711 (909) 621-8283
Bridging Homeboy Industries – Ben Maltz Gallery
Founded by Father Greg Boyle back in 1992, anti-gang organization Homeboy Industries has helped many struggling people get a job and start over. Currently run by ex-gang members, the organization continues to help those in need and three people who benefitted from the program now make art. Fabian Debora, Alex Kizu and Juan Carlos Muñoz Hernandez will showcase their talent for “Bridging Homeboy Industries” which opens Saturday, January 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. Working in mediums like bronze spray paint, the artists will display their individual aesthetics and also come together for the creation of a new mural. Opening night will also feature music from Spanish guitar group Incendio.
Back Alley: A Celebration of Art in the Streets
Organized by Do ArT Foundation and LA Street Art Gallery, “Back Alley: A Celebration of Art in the Streets” brings together LA’s street art stars in an extravaganza that also includes fashion and dance. The event lets you experience all this for free but any donations – money or unopened art supplies – go to school mural projects by Do ArT Foundation. The artist roster features everyone from collective CYRCLE. to graffiti pioneer RISK; keep an eye out for the impressive work of VYAL and the recognizable work of EYEONE, known for his Zapatista characters. Doors open at at 6 PM and the party goes until 10 ‘o clock – plenty of time to decide which piece of art you want to take home. If you miss this night, mark your calendar for February 1st when the organization will throw a closing party.
