Despite being around since 1985 (and formally taking root in Walker’s Point in 1997), Latino Arts Inc. is only becoming more relevant with age. Recent seasons have brought Grammy-winning musicians and the work of respected contemporary artists to the space, which also makes sure to showcase the talents of area creatives on its walls and on its stage.
Latino Arts released its fall schedule of performances yesterday. This segment of the cultural and artistic hub’s 36th year looks to be equally impressive, including an exhibition of muralist Mauricio Ramirez, a Day Of The Dead concert with Las Cafeteras, interactive discussions and art activities, and a performance by Milwaukee’s own De La Buena. Here’s Latino Arts’ full schedule of autumn events.
Mauricio Ramirez’s Poly-Wave: Seeds of Color and Shape
September 2 to October 1
“Poly-Wave: Seeds of Color and Shape showcases the new works of muralist Mauricio Ramirez. This exhibit highlights Ramirez’s evolving style based on vibrant color and geometric shapes. He continues to explore his Mexican-American cultural roots and other influences within his creative process.”
Day of the Dead Ofrendas
October 15 to November 14
“Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a Mexican celebration, is a day to celebrate, remember, and prepare special foods in honor of those who have departed. In order to celebrate, the families make altars and place ofrendas (offerings) of food such as pan de muertos baked in shapes of skulls and figures, candles, incense, yellow marigolds known as cemazuchitl and most importantly a photo of the departed soul is placed on the altar. Our Día de Los Muertos Ofrendas exhibit will feature installations from The Mexican Consulate, University School of Milwaukee and other local artists! Don’t miss out on our most popular event of the season!”
Day of the Dead Concert: Las Cafeteras, featuring the Latino Arts Strings Program
October 29
“Latino Arts, Inc. is thrilled to have musicians returning to our stage for the 2021-2022 season! We can’t think of a better way to welcome the return of live music than with a concert featuring Las Cafeteras! Las Cafeteras have taken the music scene by storm with their infectious live performances and have crossed genre and musical borders. Their Afro-Mexican beats, rhythms, and rhymes deliver inspiring lyrics that document stories of a community seeking love and justice. This concert will also feature students from the Latino Arts Strings Program!”
Pinto con Tinto: Canvas Calaveras y Cempazuchis
November 4
“Join us for tapas, wine and a colorful hands-on art activity that focuses on two of Day of the Dead’s most iconic elements: Calaveras y Cempazuchis! Participants will paint and take home their own canvas art of a beautiful Calavera (sugar skull) and Cempazuchi (marigold) design! Learn about the imagery and symbolism traditional to the Día de los Muertos celebration as step-by-step instruction is given during this fun and engaging workshop! All materials are provided and no prior experience is necessary. Participants must be 21+ to attend. Tickets are $25 and include tapas, wine and all art materials.”
Lunch & Learn: Day of the Dead — Significant Elements in Music and Art
November 5
“Día de los Muertos has become part of mainstream pop culture, but how are the elements of this holiday incorporated into music and art? What does it mean to those celebrating it today? This discussion will focus on Día de los Muertos /Day of the Dead, exploring its symbolism, and how each of our panelists incorporate the elements and meaning of the holiday into their respective art forms. Tickets are $10 and include a light lunch.”
Carlos Barberena: I Have Been a Stranger In My Own Land
December 2 to February 18
“Carlos Barberena uses art as a powerful form of communication that he employs to reflect on and question the issues that we encounter in a consumer society. Some of his prints focus on the work of activists who have defended their communities; “I am interested in the histories and cultural inheritance that inspire these struggles, representing them through the images in the prints.”
De La Buena: Where We Left Off
December 3
“Latino Arts, Inc. is thrilled welcome De La Buena back to the Latino Arts stage this December! Join Latino Arts Inc. for a night of Latin Jazz with De La Buena! Employing jazz harmonic sensibility and a deep-seated love of diverse cultures, De La Buena explores the textures and rhythms of Latin musics of the Americas with roots planted firmly in African Diasporic traditions.”
(All descriptions come courtesy of a Latino Arts press release)