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"Masked Marvels" Opening Reception
The mystery, excitement and popularity of lucha libre, or Mexican wrestling, is celebrated in “Masked Marvels,” a group exhibition of 16 artists, curated by artist, illustrator and author Xavier Garza that opens with a reception from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, October 4 at Bihl Haus Arts Gallery, 2803 Fredericksburg Road.
“In Mexican wrestling, a luchador is a cultural icon. Once he puts the mask and cape on, he becomes the embodiment of something bigger than life,” Garza said. “Lucha libre is like a theatrical play with the theme of good and evil along with all the acrobatic moves in the ring.”
During the opening reception, Garza will read from his book, “Lucha Libre: The Man in the Silver Mask.” The artworks include paintings, drawings, and ceramics.
“I grew up with Lucha Libre,” Garza said. “It’s nice to see how people take the concept of Lucha Libre and interpret it. They can become superheroes who bring to life an idea, concept, living superstition or whatever they choose to be.”
In addition to Xavier Garza, participating artists include Luis Valderas, Sarah Shore, Luis Guerrero, Uri Whitehead, Joe Lopez, Wil Martin, Lucrecia Morales, Raul Servin, Carolina Flores, Angelica Mayorga, Celeste De Luna, Carolyn Dee Flores, Jim Haught, Juan Miguel Ramos, and Antonio Garcia. Each will illustrate their own interpretation of the magic behind lucha libre, Garza said.
About Xavier Garza
Xavier Garza is an acclaimed author, illustrator and storyteller. His books for children include Just One Itsy Bitsy Little Bite / Sólo una mordidita chiquitita (Piñata Books, 2018), The Great and Mighty Nikko (Cinco Puntos Press/Lee and Low, 2015), Zulema and the Witch Owl / Zulema y la Bruja Lechuza (Piñata Books, 2009), Lucha Libre: The Man in the Silver Mask (Cinco Puntos Press/Lee and Low, 2007) and Juan and the Chupacabras / Juan y el Chupacabras (Piñata Books, 2006). His books are regularly named to recommended readings lists compiled by teachers and librarians, and he is the recipient of several prestigious awards for his work, such as the Pura Belpré Award, the Américas Award Commended Title and the Texas Institute of Letters Best Children’s Book Award. Born and raised in Rio Grande City in South Texas, he lives with his family in San Antonio, Texas, where he continues to write, draw and teach.
About Bihl Haus Arts
of life for active older adults and veterans through art education and further creates community through the arts with exhibitions, performances, literary events, artist talks, and the annual On and Off Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour. For more information, visit www.bihlhausarts.org or call (210) 339-8982.
Event Links
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3272933-0
