CHAC
Chicano Humanities and Arts Council
July Events
CHAC will be closed Friday July 2nd & Saturday July 3rd in obervance of 4th of July weekend. We will reopen Wednesday July 7 at 10:00am.
CHAC Gallery Show: "Expressions"
Artists: Pamela Acosta, Darlene Kuhne, Connie Mae LaMotte, Benita J. Olivas, Lucille Ruibal Rivera
July's show is about personal "Expressions" through the eyes of five talented artists! These five artists are showing “Expressions” of their work through acrylics, oils and photography. See their works of nature, imagination and man through their eyes, heart and soul…. Each of them sees the world through their own heart, eyes and soul!
Just as the 4th of July is a celebration of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” come and feel the "life, liberty and happiness" that is expressed in their works… Come and experience:"Expressions".
Opening reception 2nd Friday, July 9, 2010, 6:00-9:00 pm. Monique Ortega, Certified Message Therapist, will be bringing her message chair for 2nd Friday in July and 1st Friday in August. She will be doing message or tarot card readings for $1.00 a minute.
CHAC 2010 July Show Call for Entries: “Chicano/a Icónica, The people and events that shaped Colorado”
Entry Fee: $5.00 per piece non-members, Free to Members, or join CHAC.
EXHIBITION DISCRIPTION:
CHAC is accepting Members and local artists’ submissions for the exhibition "Chicano/a Inconica,The people and events that shaped Colorado" which will be on view at CHAC July 1st thru July 31st, 2010. This exhibit is will run concurrently during the Biennial of the Americas, a month-long cultural celebration of innovation, imagination and the artistic achievement of the Western Hemisphere hosted by the city of Denver. During this exhibition, three of CHAC’s own will be the subject of special recognition, Jerry Lawson, Rita Wallace and Carlos Martinez.
Chicano/a Iconica is an exhibition that introduces to the audience artistic interpretations of iconic people and events that have helped shape the Chicano/a experience. From the Ludlow Massacre to present day immigration issues, from Corky Gonzales to Manuel Ramos to Eppie Archuleta and Betty Benevidez the iconic people and events of Colorado’s history have shaped what and who the Denver Chicano/a Community is.
ARTIST ELIGIBILITY:
Eligible artists must live within Colorado and be willing to pay the entry fee or join in membership. Submissions are free for CHAC members. If responding from outside the Denver area contact info is presented below, Artist is responsible for shipping both to and from CHAC.
WORK ELIGIBILITY:
Work in all media is eligible. 3D Media is encouraged. Preference will be given to new work that has never been exhibited specific to this exhibit. The intent of this exhibit is to highlight Iconic people and events from Colorado’s Chicano/Latino Community’s past. The focus of the pieces is for artistic interpretation. Artist must provide written guidelines to pieces submitted.
CURATOR: Jerry Vigil, Denver Artist and Santero.
EXHIBITION CALENDAR:
• Sunday, June 27, 2010 Submission deadline
• Sunday, June 27, 2010 Drop off at CHAC Gallery
• June 27 – July 1, 2010 Exhibition installation
• Friday, July 9, 2010 Soft Opening
• Friday, July 16, 2010 Artist reception & special events evening
• July 1 - 31, 2010 Exhibition on view at CHAC
• Sunday, August 1, 2010 Strike exhibit/ Art pick up
• Gallery will be closed July 2 &3, 2010
SUBMISSION INFORMATION:
Please let us know and indicate your desire to exhibit in “Chicano/a Inconica,The people and events that shaped Colorado" by emailing chicanoiconica@yahoo.com . Please use this email if you have specific questions or special requirements for exhibiting of piece(s).
Weekly Summer Workshops for the Whole Family
Spend Thursday mornings at CHAC with your child in our our summer parent child workshops, 11:00am-Noon. All ages welcome! Don't miss this! We have been having a wonderful time!
Aztec Masks, Ages: 1st – adult, June 24, 2010
See the history behind the remarkable masks made by Mexico’s ancient Aztecs; then, create a magnificent mask.
Catrina, Ages: 1st – adult, July 8, 2010
Create your own skeleton figurine sporting a daily life costume in the traditional style of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead.)
Juego de Lotería (Mexican Bingo), Ages: 1st – adult, July 15, 2010
Play the authentic game of Juego de Lotería (Mexican Bingo) and be a designer to create your own Lotería card.
Capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding), Ages: 2nd – adult, July 22, 2010
Come see how easy it is to make good food and good art by using items close at hand!
Mexican Sun, Ages: 3rd – adult, July 29, 2010
Hear ancient legends of the sun, learn the meanings of the sun images to ancient Mexican cultures, and create a clay wall plaque.
Paper Comes From Trees, Ages: 3rd – adult, August 5, 2010
Create your own “bark” painting in the style of the Otomi people.
Santos, Ages: 1st – adult, August 12, 2010
Learn about the role of the saints in Catholic Mexico and make your own Retablo like a Santero.
CHAC Norte 774 Santa Fe Dr. Denver, CO 80204. Call to register,(303) 571-0440.
Sign up preferred but drop ins welcome. $3.00 per child. Additional children $2.00 each. No charge for parent to help child. Parent is welcome to make their own art as well for an additional fee of $2.00.
“Chicano/a Icónica, The people and events that shaped Colorado”
“Chicano/a Iconica, The people and events that shaped Colorado” is an exhibition that introduces to the audience to artistic interpretations of iconic people and events that have helped shape the Colorado Chicano/a experience. From the Ludlow Massacre to present day immigration issues, from Corky Gonzales to Manuel Ramos to Eppie Archuleta and Betty Benevidez the iconic people and events of Colorado’s history have shaped what and who the Denver Chicano/a Community is.
"Chicano/a Inconica,The people and events that shaped Colorado" will be on view at CHAC Norte July 1st thru July 31st, 2010. This exhibit is will run concurrently during the Biennial of the Americas, a month-long cultural celebration of innovation, imagination and the artistic achievement of the Western Hemisphere hosted by the city of Denver. During this exhibition, three of CHAC’s own will be the subject of special recognition, Jerry Lawson, Rita Wallace and Carlos Martinez.
CURATOR: Jerry Vigil, Denver Artist and Santero.
EXHIBITION CALENDAR:
· July 1 - 31, 2010 Exhibition on view at CHAC
· Friday, July 9, 2010 Soft Opening
· Friday, July 16, 2010 Artist reception & special events evening
· June 27 – July 1, 2010 Exhibition installation
· Gallery will be closed July 2 & 3, 2010
CHAC Norte Featured Artists
Stevon Lucero
Visit Stevon and his visionary art this July at the CHAC Norte Gallery...
Stevon is always up for visitors to his studio located inside CHAC Norte Gallery. Drop in, talk about life, talk about art, watch Stevon paint. He is a local treasure you won't want to miss. You will be richer for having met with him. To catch him, be sure to come later in the afternoon! Learn more about Stevon at www.stevonlucero.com
Robert Martinez
Robert's interest in art ranges from painting bold contemporary abstract pieces to creating Native American representational paintings. Though not Native American himself, Robert has a keen interest in portraying a proud and illustrious people. Robert will be featuring the vibrant oversize Native American classic paintings for which he is best known. Bob explores a color explosion with purples and orange hues which delight the senses! His work stirs the heart and appeals to all lovers of art.
Suzanne Martino
Suzanne's work continues to delight and amaze viewers of all ages with her whimsy and creativity. She is motivated in her work by finding the relationships between seemingly unrelated objects; which despite differences may share a similar color, shape or surface sheen. Over the last few years she has developed an interest in vintage collectables particularly ones that might be misunderstood, and deemed “cheesy”. She incorporates them into her work where they are given a second chance to be seen with a new perspective.
Suzanne strives to find ways to relate to the human experience. This is the driving force in her work. She attempts, through artistic commentary, to look at the ways in which our humanity unfolds, sometimes with seriousness, sometimes with humor; and hopefully always with a bit of whimsy and imagination.
Michael Penny
“To see a world in a grain of sand, and a heaven in a wild flower; to hold infinity in the palm of your hand and eternity in an hour--is inspiration.” -William Blake
Local Denver Artist Michael J. Penny shares his broad collection of inspirational art pieces. His work includes a wide collection of fine pieces including unique art pieces that were inspired by his love of nature, culture, spirituality and life. Michael's unique ability to reproduce an artifact look in a new world setting sets his work apart from any other artist. The combination of deep relief sandblasting in stone with fine detailing is both unique and of the highest quality. The final product of stone tile art pieces and embellishments is something that is guaranteed to please each and every one who views his work.
Michael’s studio is located in the historic San Rafael neighborhood and can be visited by appointment. All work is hand crafted by Michael in his studio. Custom work is also available by special order.
Poetry y Mas
2nd Saturday Poetry - July 10, 2010 - 2:00-4:00pm
This 2nd Saturday Poetry y Mas our guest star of stars is Jerry Lawson, cuentista extraordinaire. Join us as we are taken to a very special place in the imagination of this wonderful woman. Sign up as well for our open mic, get your artistic juices flowing and become immersed in those excellent vibes found on the Santa Fe Drive of your dreams. We’re to be found specifically at 772 Santa Fe Drive just off 8th Avenue in the heart of Denver’s arts district. Come on gente a new world awaits you –First Friday is Great y 2nd Saturday Poetry y Mas es muy bueno tambien! As always, call me – Suzanna Vega @ 720-569-9350 if you’d like to discuss anything or even volunteer y mas.
Kids Art Saturday:
3rd Saturday - July 17, 2010 - 2:00-4:00pm
It's summer time and time for travel. Journey though Mexico with Folklorista Rita Flores de Wallace, make a craft out of home ceramic that will amaze you! As always Kids Art Saturday classes are free. Donations are accepted.
Crafty Chica
4th Saturday, Kathy Cano Murillo, Crafty Chica Classes - 2:00-4:00pm
Calling all Crafty Chicas! Join us for a summer of sizzling classes! Wow your guests with home goods for entertaining that you made yourself!
June 26, 2010- Mexican Margarita Candles- 1:00-3:00 Start your South-of -the-Border theme with sparkling candles.
Enjoy sipping on a Margarita or lemon-lime lemonade as you create your own illuminated margarita glass candles. Chips and salsa will be served.
Summer Special-Buy one get one half price: You pay $15.00 and your friend pays half price! Register by Wednesday June 23, 2010. Call 303-571-0440
July 24, 2010- Mexicali Mini-Lights-1:00-3:00
Make a 15 light string of patio lights to add to your evening ambiance of entertaining. These terra cotta twinklers are sure to de-light (pun intended) with your own creative flair!
Enjoy a glass of a mojito or raspberry lemonade and popcorn along with Chica comraderee while you create!
Summer Special-Buy one get one half price: You pay $15.00 and your friend pays half price! Register by Friday July 24, 2010. Call 303-571-0440
King of the Kitchen Cooking Classes at CHAC
Last Saturday of the month - 5:00-8 ish
June 26, 2010
Join us at C.H.A.C. Saturday June 26th from 5:00 til' 8 ish, for this months exciting King of the Kitchen Cooking Course. Tony Vecchio and King of the Kitchen Catering leads our Fun and Sun Cooking Course; A cultural cooking course for beginners and professionals. Learn, laugh and have FUN. Class is held every last Saturday of the month from 5:00-8:00ish p.m. So make a night of it, bring a date, enjoy a great meal while adding to your cooking repertoire.
This month's class will feature "Summer Grill." The menu will be as follows...
Tequila Lime Chicken
Bacon Wrapped Grilled Shrimp
Cilantro Lime Rice
Roasted Corn and Tequila Watermelon Granita
Dont forget the Tequila tasting as well...We will be featuring Cabo Wabo Tequila, Cuervo Especial 1800 and Sotol de Chihuahua. Please call Tony Vecchio at 720-629-0495 for class info or visit www.kingofthekitchencatering .com
July 31, 2010
Visit www.kingofthekitchencatering .com for info on July's class.
Mira! Un Artista una Hora (Look! One Artist, one Hour)
4th Thursday of the month - July 22, 2010 - 6:30-7:30 pm
You know we've been talking about it...you've heard about it...and now it's finally here!
Join folklorist Rita Flores de Wallace as she kicks off the first of our artist lecture series. Rita will treat us to a talk on the folk traditions of the curandera. Hear little known facts of traditional medicinals that work! See authentic items from Rita's collections that explain the concepts firsthand!
Rita is a talented treasure that we are so lucky to have in our Denver community. Originally from Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico, Rita has been a CHAC member for years. To show our appreciation for all she has given to the community, we are honoring Rita this July. Don't miss this rare opportunity to come in and listen to Rita share her wealth of knowledge in world of Mexican folk realities. This is your chance to ask her questions, and hear life enriching perspectives that are ancient and little known.
Delicious beverage and snacks will be provided. Cost is $3.00 for non-members and $2.00 for members
Chile Harvest Festival
August 28 & 29, 2010 at the Lakewood Heritage Center
Save the dates! We are seeking artists and assorted vendors to exhibit and sell their unique wares. Would you like to have a venue to show and sell some of your newest art pieces? Then, rent an artist's booth at this year's low rate of $100.00. Do you or anyone you know make pepper jelly? Or, what about dark chocolate bars with chiles? Become a vendor at the ever growing Chile Harvest Festival. Artist and vendor applications can be found at: http://www.lakewood.org/comres/page.cfm?ID=441&ChileHarvestFestival/ Deadline to apply for booth rental is July 1st. To apply for a non-profit booth at a drastically reduced rate contact CHAC at 303-571-0440. Hurry and reserve your space today!
Would you like to volunteer with CHAC to put on this year's Chile Harvest Festival? You are invited to have a significant role in impacting the community by making this the best Chile Harvest ever! Join the Chile Harvest committee. Call 303-571-0440.
Lori Melena, Hospitality coordinator for the Chili Harvest is looking for volunteers to help keep the hospitality room running and relieving artists at their booths if needed. Would like people to volunteer for at least 2 hour shifts as we will need "two people" to cover all the time. Please email Lori at: lorimelena@earthlink.net
Birthday Parties on the Patio
Are you looking for unique venue to hold your child's birthday party this year? Do you want to make it memorable? Come to CHAC! We now offer extraordinary, cultural birthday parties on our fabulous Mexican style patio!
CHAC provides:
* The patio,(or the gallery space if the weather is inclemement)
* A guided gallery tour of both CHAC Gallery and CHAC Norte
* A hands-on Cultural Art class of your choice. Choose from one of our 15 cultural art workshops to be presented to your group. Each child will make their own art or craft to take home.
* The pinata, the history behind it and the breaking of pinata game.
* Children's bilingual book of their choice for the birthday boy or girl.
* 10% discount for all on the day of the party in the Tiendita.
All you need to provide are the paper goods, beverage and the cake.
Cost: $150.00 non-members. $135.00 CHAC members. Call CHAC to register.
Volunteer of the Month
Suzanna Vega
Suzanna has been a part of CHAC for a very long time. She has faithfully helped out for years. Right now she is in charge of Poetry y Mas. She coordinates it finds the speakers, send out PR to gather people. She usually helps out at cash register first Fridays, she is great with customers, and is always available when she is needed.
Donor of the Month
Belinda Maestas
Our dear sweet Belinda! We are so blessed to have this one of a kind original as one of our own at CHAC! Belinda is giving, loving and is always there with a smile and ready to sell you something you didn't even know you needed!
Belinda is one of the most generous people I have ever met....she is always donating things we need at CHAC. For instance... the other day a man came by selling first aid kits. I know we should really have an official one...but the price held me back. Next thing I know it is hanging on the wall in the bathroom!
Our donated vacuum cleaner sounded like a very large jet taking off when we vacuumed....one day a brand new vacuum cleaner just showed up...
We never had a water faucet in the backyard....we carried water from the kitchen to water our plants. One day a man is in the backyard working on something...I asked who he was and what he was doing? She said "Honey...don't worry about it" He was installing a faucet so we can water the plants and clean the patio.
I think Belinda is an example for all of us and what we can do for each other and for CHAC. She is our "One of a kind Belinda" and we are so lucky to have her!
Business of the Month
Lei Russell
Long time CHAC artist, Lei Russell, announces the release of her new book, Cooking with the Five Elements.Cooking with the Five Elements provides the context in which to introduce the practice of Taoism, Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM, and Food Therapy.
Discover the incredible power of food as a diet, healing art, spiritual practice and the source of longevity.Learn how to use Five Element Theory, to achieve health and vitality. See and understand food in a profound way that is the Tao, fundamentally transforming the way you view food in relation to yourself and family.What you get is timeless guide into the wisdom and insight of the Tao, the discipline of TCM and Five Element Theory, in a conceptual framework using “Western Foods” that can help you dispel: disease, depression, fear, anxiety, anger, sadness, sorrow, worry and grief, while improving your health and emotions.Engage in using a multifaceted well-focused, traditional approach that has been transmitted for centuries and a great book for everyone to achieve harmony, good health and emotional balance through Cooking with the Five Elements and food therapy.
Available exclusively here at CHAC, in print on demand, coil-bound and approximately 224 full color pages, or on CD.Explore and change your perception as you engage with the elemental strength that is inherent in the universe! 5elementcooking.com
Book of the Month
ABeCedarios-Mexican Folk Art ABC's in English and Spanish
The famous folk artist brothers, Moisés and Armando Jiménez, carved the wonderful animal figures that illustrate each letter in ABeCedarios. Working with their wives and children in the beautiful village of Arrazola in Oaxaca, Mexico, they carved and painted each enchanting animal by hand.
Delicate hand-painted animals from Oaxaca lead little ones through a bilingual alphabet. This brightly colored book presents the alphabet in both Spanish and English, including the four additional lettersthat make the Spanish alphabet so much fun.
Store Item of the Month
Hand made aprons and pot holders by MariaElena
This month we are featuring beautiful aprons made lovingly by Maria Elena of MaryEllen's Apron's. Each apron comes with a set of faniciful matching potholders to make you fabulously color coordinated in your kitchen. Shop early to get your choice of colors.
MaryEllen's Aprons "Adding a Touch of Beauty to your Everyday Life!"
Opportunity to Give Back!
Summer has arrived and the mood throughout the Gallery remains high-spirited and energetic. CHAC is in the midst of celebrating its 32nd year of featuring the art and culture of the vibrant Chicano and Latino community. And as you read this, the June exhibit, “Beyond the Sea,” is taking place and young participants are delving into mixed media cultural arts projects at the organization’s first ever Summer Family Workshop Series.
These occurrences are all taking place because of your generosity. In 2009 alone, CHAC:
Served a total of more than 18,300 individuals
Offered 25 exhibits that featured the work of both new and established artists
Sponsored landmark cultural events, such as El Dia de los Muertos celebrations and the annual Chile Harvest Festival
Served nearly 3,000 children, 85% of who qualify for free or reduced lunch programs
Held weekly art workshops for Boys & Girls Club participants and twice weekly workshops at the University of Denver’s Bridge Project
Encouraged an overall understanding of cultural awareness and a respect for diversity
CHAC’s ability to accomplish such feats has required a tremendous commitment from our donors and volunteers, and we extend our deepest gratitude for your contribution of time and resources.
In order to continue to provide emerging and established Chicano and Latino artists with the tools they need to succeed, while simultaneously responding to the needs of the most underserved young members of our community, we are asking for your continued support. Your tax-deductible donation in any amount will enable CHAC to reach these students and provide Metro Denver residents with an awareness and education of the rich Chicano and Latino culture.
On behalf of everyone at CHAC, thank you in advance for your support and for making a difference in the local community!
Warmly,
Crystal O’Brien Tony Vecchio
Executive Director Chair, CHAC Board of Directors