We celebrate Hispanic heritage and history

As we celebrate heritage, let us focus also on culture. Go see the Hispanic Heritage art exhibit at our library which runs until October 9th. Here we highlight the past as well as the wonderful young artists featured in the exhibit:

Ricardo Gonzalez, grew up in Blue Island, the second born US citizen in a family that came from Michoacan, Mexico. Drawing always from the time he was a child, he graduated from the American Academy of Art and has exhibited at the Beverly Art Center as well as the Mexican Museum. Thoughtful, serene and yet provocative, Mexican history and immigration is one of his focal points including portrayal of some who already live here, yet are mistakenly labeled immigrants. Watercolor, some oil paints.

Kandice Kardell, from Scottsdale, Arizona was primarily raised by her mother and Mexican grandmother. She pays tribute to her family and the roles that art plays in preserving the history and culture of varying ethnic groups. B.A., in Mixed Media from Arizona State University. In February 2009 she will be moving to the island of Dominica to serve as a volunteer in the Peace Corp.

Mariza Hernandez, born in Chicago, first generation Mexican- American. From an early age she was always drawing and coloring. B.A in Fine Arts and Illustration. Water color and some oils. Her artistic goal is to achieve the feeling of an intimate snapshot.

These young artists all portray important moments, objects and people that remind us of our own lives.

Visit the exhibit. In the past - Peter Contreras, the original founder of Bethel Pentecostal Church in a photo circa 1920's. He is the father of now pastor, Reverend Peter Contreras Jr. Bethel Church celebrated their 60th anniversary this year on September 27th and 28th.

The futurepaintings of Ricardo Gonzales. The FORUM has interviewed Ricardo in the past-we are proud of his accomplishments.