Since 1985, Latino Arts Inc. has fostered Hispanic expression sourced by artists, musicians, dancers, and thespians from all corners of Latin America, as well as ample representation from talents right here in Milwaukee. Ardently affixed to the pillars of education and cultural awareness, the facility hosts yearly exhibits that reach a variety of artistic cross-sections. Moreover, exhibitions are introduced through related events by performers from other mediums. Latino Arts’ soon-to-be-released fall schedule (and beyond) culls creatives from the realms of painting, music, dance, and mixed media assemblage. From ofrenda exhibits, an entirely female tango performance rooted in history, an appearance by a recent Grammy-winning band, and sporadic outings by the touted in-house Latino Arts Strings Program, there will be more than enough going on, both in the gallery and on stage, between September and next February to warrant a visit to the 9th Street artistic hub.
Noche de Gala
Saturday, September 27th at 7:30 p.m.
Latino Arts calls Noche de Gala “a classy evening of music and dance to raise funds for and celebrate arts education.” This year’s Latin Arts Auditorium & Gallery fundraiser ($50 per attendee, $175 for a table of four) includes musical entertainment in the form of Edward’s Latin Ensemble and Latino Arts Strings Program, art from Bruce-Guadalupe Community School students, dance demonstrations, and nightlong raffles and auctions.
Día de los Muertos Ofrendas
October 20 – November 21
It might be scheduled to occur in accordance with this year’s Day Of The Dead (November 1), but the confines of the Latino Arts Gallery will be full of life in the form of vibrant expression. Latino Arts’ annual Day of the Dead exhibition is said to “celebrate life,” and will feature a variety of customized “ofrendas” (or altars) constructed and decorated by artists both residing in town and who hail from continents away. The exhibit takes place from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. every weekday and costs $1.
La Santa Cecilia
Friday, November 7th at 7:30 p.m.
It’s always a big deal when a reigning Grammy winner comes to town. It’s no different when La Santa Cecilia drops by the Latino Arts Auditorium in November. The Los Angeles-based six-piece took home the Grammy hardware in the category of Best Latin Rock, Urban, or Alternative Album in January. La Santa Cecilia fuses Latin culture with elements of rock and world music. The Latino Arts Strings Program will open the show. Try to see another band that’s six months removed from winning a Grammy perform in a 350-capacity auditorium for $15 ($10 for students and seniors), or $25 for both dinner and the show.
Tango Colores by Pacia Sallomi
December 5 – February 2015
The paintings of Carroll University art professor Pacia Sallomi highlight elements of silent communication and mutual reliance of tango dancers. The works in Tango Colores honor the distinct style of dance, and the underlying push and pull tango imposes upon of its participants. The Latino Arts Gallery exhibition is open to the public weekdays from 9 a.m. through 8 p.m. for a $1 donation.
GlamourTango
Friday, December 5th at 7:30 p.m.
GlamourTango is a Latino Arts Auditorium showcase that honors the longstanding and significant contributions women have made to the art of Tango. Composed of a completely female cast that’s led by Uruguayan pianist and Musical Director Polly Ferman, GlamourTango shows the audience the impact female dancers had (and still have) on Tango. General admission is $15 ($10 for students and seniors) or $25 for both dinner and the show.