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 noted musicians and the work of respected contemporary artists to the space, which also makes sure to feature renderings from area creatives.
Latino Arts released its winter and spring schedule of performances Wednesday. This segment of the cultural and artistic hub’s 35th year looks to be equally impressive, including a guitar festival, a performance by a Grammy-winning band, and a “tribute to the migrant farm worker labor movement in the 1960s and 1970s” exhibition. Here’s Latino Arts’ full schedule of late winter and spring events.
Latino Arts Strings Program Presents: 9th Annual Guitar Festival Concert
February 5
“Join us for the Ninth Annual International Guitar Festival Concert presented by the Latino Arts Strings Program. This special in-person performance will highlight the submission videos of the winners of the Virtual Guitar Festival Competition along with soloist and renowned classical guitarist, Ivan Resendiz.”
Lunch & Learn Series: The Afro-Latino Creative Impact in the Arts
February 25 (In-Person and on Facebook LIVE)
“Join the conversation with local Afro-Latino artists, makers, and creatives as they discuss how their identity and roots inform their work and creative process. This Lunch & Learn will be an in-person event that will be live-streamed on Facebook.”
Familias Unidas: Tributo a La Lucha de Los Trabajadores Migrantes en Wisconsin 1960s -1970s
April 1 – May 27
“In the 1960s and 1970s, Chicano/a and Hispanic migrant farm workers and other community members organized to improve working conditions, housing and social services, challenge discrimination in hiring practices, and advance bilingual programs and greater access to education. Known as the Farm Workers Movement, it continues to be consequential to the Hispanic community and the nation at large today. The Grohmann Museum and Latino Arts, Inc. are pleased to present this joint exhibit. Family, activism, and education will serve as a focal lens to reflect on the drive behind the actions taken by underserved people and allies to assert the value of their work, their right to better quality of life, and greater access to education.”
Latino Arts Presents: Quetzal featuring the Latino Arts Strings Program
April 8
“Drawing its name from the beautiful bird native to parts of Mexico and Central America, Quetzal is a Grammy Award winning East LA group, now celebrating its 20-year anniversary! Quetzal is the collaborative project of Quetzal Flores (guitar), Martha González (lead vocals, percussion), Tylana Enomoto (violin), Juan Pérez (bass), Peter Jacobson (cello), and Alberto Lopez (percussion). The musical ensemble is influenced by an East LA rock soundscape composed of Mexican ranchera, cumbia, salsa, rock, R&B, folk, and fusions of international music.”
Pinto con Tinto: Rosas & Rosé
May 12
“April showers bring May flowers! Join us in welcoming back spring and its many colors with artist Yesica Coria as she leads this hands-on art making experience. Participants will explore this traditional corn husk flower making craft and take home their beautiful creations to celebrate the return of warmer weather. In this fun take on our traditional Pinto con Tinto, our guests will pair their artistic talents between delicious tapas and hands-on fun. This is a 21+ event. Tickets include wine, tapas, and all art supplies.”
(All descriptions come courtesy of a Latino Arts press release)