Featured story
Reviving a Fabled Latin Beat in the Bronx
The city’s current economic mess has been prompting some scary memories about the 1970s, when Fun City gave way to Done City and its dirty streets, grimy subways, abandoned buildings and free-for-alls on the street.
But there are also two little words from that era will make some hearts beat faster for all the right reasons: Grupo Folklorico.
This Saturday, the 15-piece Latin band that recorded two albums and played a few gigs in the mid-1970s before passing into fabled memory, are reuniting for a concert at the Hostos Center for the Arts and Culture.
For the complete New York Times report by David Gonzalez, go to
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/30/reviving-a-latin-beat-in-the-bronx/?apage=1
About Me
- Clarisel Gonzalez
- I am editor and publisher of Clarisel Media (formerly PRSUN Communications), an independent online media and media consulting business.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Bronx Media Seeks Talent for NYC Marathon
Opportunity
Bronxmedia presents live entertainment during the 2008 ING NYC Marathon
Come out and listen to DJ Rockin Rob, Chuck City, DJ Flawless and your host Mr.Show Time, plus NJ5, Just-Us, Without You Am Nothing, JayRoc and special guests.
Graham Triangle, 138th Street between Morris and Lincoln avenues.
November 2
10 a.m. till 5:30 p.m.
Up and coming artists wanting to showcase their skills can send an email to events@bronxmedia.com with your contact information and how Bronx Media can listen to your work online. Afterparty will be announced during event.
For more information call 917-915-1404 or email info@bronxmedia.com. Watch it live on the following websites:
www.bronxmedia.tv
www.bronxmedia.com
www.soulofthebronxradio.com
source: Bronx Media
Bronxmedia presents live entertainment during the 2008 ING NYC Marathon
Come out and listen to DJ Rockin Rob, Chuck City, DJ Flawless and your host Mr.Show Time, plus NJ5, Just-Us, Without You Am Nothing, JayRoc and special guests.
Graham Triangle, 138th Street between Morris and Lincoln avenues.
November 2
10 a.m. till 5:30 p.m.
Up and coming artists wanting to showcase their skills can send an email to events@bronxmedia.com with your contact information and how Bronx Media can listen to your work online. Afterparty will be announced during event.
For more information call 917-915-1404 or email info@bronxmedia.com. Watch it live on the following websites:
www.bronxmedia.tv
www.bronxmedia.com
www.soulofthebronxradio.com
source: Bronx Media
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Alejandra Delfin Named a 'Hometown Hero'
Bronx Latino congratulates Alejandra C. Delfin for leading, teaching and empowering Bronxites.
Alejandra C. Delfin, founder of Studio 889, has been named a Hometown Hero by 7Online.com and the IntrepidSea, Air & SpaceMuseum for her contribution to the community with her printmaking workshop, Studio 889. She will be honored at the Intrepid in a ceremony where the President of the United States will be the keynote speaker on November 11.
Founded and led by printmaker and BRIO Award winning artist Alejandra C. Delfin. Studio 889 introduces printmaking to people throughout the community, encourages individuals of all ages and levels of experience to explore, get involved, and support the arts.
Studio 889 began with one community printmaking workshop through a grant from The Bronx Museum, ACTION LAB - Bronx Museum at The Point in 2004. Now Studio 889 is a nonprofit visual arts gallery, workshop and classroom whose mission is to cultivate an artistic environment that encourages creative development, technical experimentation, and the exchanhge of ideas. They do so by providing arts in education, community and professional printmaking workshops. The studio occupies a 500 square foot storefront at 889 Hunts Point Avenue. The space allows for one large press and one small press on premises, as well as gallery exhibit space.
source: Studio 889 press release
(photo by Clarisel Gonzalez of Alejandra Delfin, a visual artist, talking about the art of printmaking during a Bronx Culture trolley tour in Hunts Point in 2006.)
Alejandra C. Delfin, founder of Studio 889, has been named a Hometown Hero by 7Online.com and the IntrepidSea, Air & SpaceMuseum for her contribution to the community with her printmaking workshop, Studio 889. She will be honored at the Intrepid in a ceremony where the President of the United States will be the keynote speaker on November 11.
Founded and led by printmaker and BRIO Award winning artist Alejandra C. Delfin. Studio 889 introduces printmaking to people throughout the community, encourages individuals of all ages and levels of experience to explore, get involved, and support the arts.
Studio 889 began with one community printmaking workshop through a grant from The Bronx Museum, ACTION LAB - Bronx Museum at The Point in 2004. Now Studio 889 is a nonprofit visual arts gallery, workshop and classroom whose mission is to cultivate an artistic environment that encourages creative development, technical experimentation, and the exchanhge of ideas. They do so by providing arts in education, community and professional printmaking workshops. The studio occupies a 500 square foot storefront at 889 Hunts Point Avenue. The space allows for one large press and one small press on premises, as well as gallery exhibit space.
source: Studio 889 press release
(photo by Clarisel Gonzalez of Alejandra Delfin, a visual artist, talking about the art of printmaking during a Bronx Culture trolley tour in Hunts Point in 2006.)
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Technology
Verizon to Bring FiOS TV and Internet Services to Parkchester Residents
Residents of Parkchester, the largest privately owned condominium complex in the U.S., will soon have access to FiOS, the most advanced, transformational, all-fiber-optic service from Verizon.
Under recently signed agreements with the two condo boards of the northeast Bronx complex, which contains 12,271 apartments in 171 buildings, Verizon will start providing FiOS TV and FiOS Internet services to some residents by year-end. The services will be available in the near future to all residents, who will be able to enjoy more than 100 high-definition (HD) channels on FiOS TV and broadband speeds of up to 50 Mbps (megabits per second) on FiOS Internet service.
Verizon’s agreements with Parkchester are the company’s largest to date in the urban multiple-dwelling-unit market.
source: Verizon press release
Verizon to Bring FiOS TV and Internet Services to Parkchester Residents
Residents of Parkchester, the largest privately owned condominium complex in the U.S., will soon have access to FiOS, the most advanced, transformational, all-fiber-optic service from Verizon.
Under recently signed agreements with the two condo boards of the northeast Bronx complex, which contains 12,271 apartments in 171 buildings, Verizon will start providing FiOS TV and FiOS Internet services to some residents by year-end. The services will be available in the near future to all residents, who will be able to enjoy more than 100 high-definition (HD) channels on FiOS TV and broadband speeds of up to 50 Mbps (megabits per second) on FiOS Internet service.
Verizon’s agreements with Parkchester are the company’s largest to date in the urban multiple-dwelling-unit market.
source: Verizon press release
'Broken Glass' Documents South Bronx
Photography
While the "Broken Glass" exhibit is in Manhattan, it is all about the Bronx. It records a painful time in the history of the South Bronx. With so much talk about gentrification and the movement to change the identity of the South Bronx to SoBro or the downtown Bronx, it is important to remember the images and the stories of those who survived the Bronx when others gave up on it. That is the story of the Bronx. It is a story of survival.
I'm planning to check out this upcoming exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York. It documents the South Bronx of the early 1980s.
Featured exhibit
Documenting the South Bronx, 1982-1984
The last time we looked at the South Bronx it was 1979 through 1987, and now photographer Ray Mortenson focuses in on 1982 through 1984 in his new exhibit titled "Broken Glass: Photographs of the South Bronx." Opening November 14th (and running through March 9th) at the Museum of the City of New York, Mortenson's exhibit of 50 black & white prints will take a look at "the abandoned, burnt out, and razed structures of entire city blocks in the South Bronx in the aftermath of the 1970s, during which this neighborhood experienced dramatic decline."
For more, go to
http://gothamist.com/2008/10/28/documenting_the_south_bronx_1982198.php?gallery16359Pic=2.
While the "Broken Glass" exhibit is in Manhattan, it is all about the Bronx. It records a painful time in the history of the South Bronx. With so much talk about gentrification and the movement to change the identity of the South Bronx to SoBro or the downtown Bronx, it is important to remember the images and the stories of those who survived the Bronx when others gave up on it. That is the story of the Bronx. It is a story of survival.
I'm planning to check out this upcoming exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York. It documents the South Bronx of the early 1980s.
Featured exhibit
Documenting the South Bronx, 1982-1984
The last time we looked at the South Bronx it was 1979 through 1987, and now photographer Ray Mortenson focuses in on 1982 through 1984 in his new exhibit titled "Broken Glass: Photographs of the South Bronx." Opening November 14th (and running through March 9th) at the Museum of the City of New York, Mortenson's exhibit of 50 black & white prints will take a look at "the abandoned, burnt out, and razed structures of entire city blocks in the South Bronx in the aftermath of the 1970s, during which this neighborhood experienced dramatic decline."
For more, go to
http://gothamist.com/2008/10/28/documenting_the_south_bronx_1982198.php?gallery16359Pic=2.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Halloween in the Bx
Halloween Costume Party & Networking Event TONIGHT at Mamosa Lounge, 1237 Castle Hill Ave. Meet business and community people and have some fun! Bronxnet will be on location covering this networking bash.
Hosted by Rhina Valentin (an award winning performer & host of "Open" on Bronxnet) with a surprise performance accompanied by percussionist Eddie Conde. Special guest John "Bones" Rodriguez. Music provided by DJ Willie "Will Rod" Rodriguez. Doors open @ 5 p.m. There will be drink specials (great mojitos!) & free hors d'oeuvres.
Sponsors are Banco Popular, the Fordham Road BID & Bronxnet. Costumes are preferred but not required. Private restrooms available at Mamosa to change into a costume there. Giveaways including 2 tickets to Six Flags Frightfest (must be wearing costume to win tickets).
For more information, visit the NetWorks website at www.TheNetWorks.org, MySpace page at www.myspace.com/thenetworksorganization, or call (914) 302-2598.
Admission: $5 for NetWorks members and $15 for nonmembers.
Friday, October 24, 2008
New: Bronx Latino aStore
Check out the Bronx Latino aStore @ Amazon for books, music and movies highlighting Latinos and/or the Bronx.
Here's the link:
http://astore.amazon.com/bronlati03-20
Here's the link:
http://astore.amazon.com/bronlati03-20
Today's Featured Photo
Today's featured shot from the Bronx Latino photo group is by kptyson. This photo of a father and son was shot in the Bronx Dominican parade.
Featured story
CITY'S MÀS APPEAL
LATINO POPULATION IS SURGING
The metro area's Latino population has increased in every borough except Manhattan, where a small percentage of Hispanics has departed, a new study shows.
To read the complete New York Post report, go to
http://www.nypost.com/seven/10242008/news/regionalnews/citys_m_s_appeal_135060.htm
CITY'S MÀS APPEAL
LATINO POPULATION IS SURGING
The metro area's Latino population has increased in every borough except Manhattan, where a small percentage of Hispanics has departed, a new study shows.
To read the complete New York Post report, go to
http://www.nypost.com/seven/10242008/news/regionalnews/citys_m_s_appeal_135060.htm
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Things to do in the Bx
The SugaRusH Comedy Show @ 8 p.m. hosted by CindySugaRusH w. D.J MELLOW G spinning along with NYC’s most hilarious.
$10/DOOR
8-11 p.m., TONIGHT
Bruckner Bar & Grill
The SugaRusH Comedy Show @ Bruckner Bar & Grill is located 1 Bruckner Blvd 133rd Street & 3rd Ave under the 3rd Ave Bridge in the Bronx.
For more information, (718) 665 2001.
A food menu is available @ Brucknerbar.com & enjoy SugaRusH drink specials all night.
source: www.boricuation.com
The SugaRusH Comedy Show @ 8 p.m. hosted by CindySugaRusH w. D.J MELLOW G spinning along with NYC’s most hilarious.
$10/DOOR
8-11 p.m., TONIGHT
Bruckner Bar & Grill
The SugaRusH Comedy Show @ Bruckner Bar & Grill is located 1 Bruckner Blvd 133rd Street & 3rd Ave under the 3rd Ave Bridge in the Bronx.
For more information, (718) 665 2001.
A food menu is available @ Brucknerbar.com & enjoy SugaRusH drink specials all night.
source: www.boricuation.com
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Community calendar
Jangueo Nights Kick Off This Thursday with Game Over
Join Pregones for its first Jangueo Night, the perfect social adventure and after-work hangout for young people 21+. Drinks, eats, and theater. Special admission price $15 with online code: jangueo08. Mojito Bar open before and after show. Proof of age required. For future advance notices and invites, write to jangueo@pregones.org.
7:30 p.m., Thursday, October 23
For more information, www.pregones.org.
Jangueo Nights Kick Off This Thursday with Game Over
Join Pregones for its first Jangueo Night, the perfect social adventure and after-work hangout for young people 21+. Drinks, eats, and theater. Special admission price $15 with online code: jangueo08. Mojito Bar open before and after show. Proof of age required. For future advance notices and invites, write to jangueo@pregones.org.
7:30 p.m., Thursday, October 23
For more information, www.pregones.org.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Opportunity
Danza Fiesta holds auditions for new dancers
4-7 p.m., Saturday, November 8
Reyes Karate School
1175 Gerard Avenue
Danza Fiesta
Baile y Teatro Puertorriqueño
Under the direction of renowned dancer/choreographer Gilda Rivera Pantojas, Danza Fiesta – Baile y Teatro Puertorriqueño has entranced audiences with its rich array of Puerto Rican traditional dances, and intriguing contemporary dances. Its repertoire ranges from Puerto Rican Bomba, Plena, and Seis music, to other Latin American traditional dances. The company currently is composed by 20 dancers who are accompanied by a 10 member band, and three singers.
MALE/FEMALE AUDITION INFORMATION:
Auditions will be held by Danza Fiesta’s seasoned dancer/choreographer Cristal Reyes with over 10 years experience with the company. All dancers should wear comfortable clothing, and if available females should bring a wide skirt. Headshots and Resumes not necessary but bring if available. No experience is necessary but all dancers should have a great sense of musicality and timing. Callbacks will be held the following week on Saturday, November 15th, 2008. There is currently no pay for rehearsals but there may be performance stipends available, depending on the venue. This is a great opportunity to be part of an innovative and unique dance and theater company.
http://www.DanzaFiesta.org
For more information, e-mail info@DanzaFiesta.org
(photo of Danza Fiesta performing at La Fiesta Folkorica Puertorriqueña in Central Park by Clarisel Gonzalez)
source: Danza Fiesta
Danza Fiesta holds auditions for new dancers
4-7 p.m., Saturday, November 8
Reyes Karate School
1175 Gerard Avenue
Danza Fiesta
Baile y Teatro Puertorriqueño
Under the direction of renowned dancer/choreographer Gilda Rivera Pantojas, Danza Fiesta – Baile y Teatro Puertorriqueño has entranced audiences with its rich array of Puerto Rican traditional dances, and intriguing contemporary dances. Its repertoire ranges from Puerto Rican Bomba, Plena, and Seis music, to other Latin American traditional dances. The company currently is composed by 20 dancers who are accompanied by a 10 member band, and three singers.
MALE/FEMALE AUDITION INFORMATION:
Auditions will be held by Danza Fiesta’s seasoned dancer/choreographer Cristal Reyes with over 10 years experience with the company. All dancers should wear comfortable clothing, and if available females should bring a wide skirt. Headshots and Resumes not necessary but bring if available. No experience is necessary but all dancers should have a great sense of musicality and timing. Callbacks will be held the following week on Saturday, November 15th, 2008. There is currently no pay for rehearsals but there may be performance stipends available, depending on the venue. This is a great opportunity to be part of an innovative and unique dance and theater company.
http://www.DanzaFiesta.org
For more information, e-mail info@DanzaFiesta.org
(photo of Danza Fiesta performing at La Fiesta Folkorica Puertorriqueña in Central Park by Clarisel Gonzalez)
source: Danza Fiesta
Friday, October 17, 2008
'Bike the Bronx'
In advance of the annual Tour de Bronx bicycle ride, that will take place this Sunday, October 19, Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion today released the report, “Bike The Bronx: A Report on the Need for Increased On- Street Bike Parking in the Bronx,” in conjunction with his new initiative by the same name. This report documents the necessity for more bicycle racks in the borough as a cost-effective way to make bike riding more convenient for commuters and recreational riders.
Carrion indicates in the report that there is a large population in the Bronx that could ride their bikes to get to work and school, conduct business or for recreation. However, The Bronx has far too few bicycle racks compared to its population. Currently, the Bronx only has enough bicycle racks to serve 2,000 bikes, despite the borough’s nearly 1.4 million residents.
“I am releasing this report and launching this public awareness campaign because I believe that installing more bike racks in The Bronx will significantly increase the number of people who bike to work,” said Carrion. “With this initiative and other efforts, we’ll achieve our goal of making the Bronx the most bike-friendly borough in the city.”
According to the report, thousands of people everyday can be riding their bikes, while also helping to improve their health, save money on gas and improve the environment by not driving a car. As a part of a public awareness campaign tied to the release of this report, Carrion is urging Bronx residents to go to his website, www.bronxbp.org, to submit their requests for a bike rack near where they work, shop or play.
The report also found that 50% of the Bronx work force drives to work. Moreover, 32% of all Bronx commuters travel less than 30 minutes to work. Of the five boroughs, The Bronx has the highest percentage (57%) of auto commuters who drive alone to a job that is less than 30 minutes away from their home. In addition to the thousands of Bronx commuters who drive to work, thousands of more students, deliverers, messengers, recreational riders and regular residents running errands can all benefit from an increased number of bicycle racks.
source: Bronx BP press release
Carrion indicates in the report that there is a large population in the Bronx that could ride their bikes to get to work and school, conduct business or for recreation. However, The Bronx has far too few bicycle racks compared to its population. Currently, the Bronx only has enough bicycle racks to serve 2,000 bikes, despite the borough’s nearly 1.4 million residents.
“I am releasing this report and launching this public awareness campaign because I believe that installing more bike racks in The Bronx will significantly increase the number of people who bike to work,” said Carrion. “With this initiative and other efforts, we’ll achieve our goal of making the Bronx the most bike-friendly borough in the city.”
According to the report, thousands of people everyday can be riding their bikes, while also helping to improve their health, save money on gas and improve the environment by not driving a car. As a part of a public awareness campaign tied to the release of this report, Carrion is urging Bronx residents to go to his website, www.bronxbp.org, to submit their requests for a bike rack near where they work, shop or play.
The report also found that 50% of the Bronx work force drives to work. Moreover, 32% of all Bronx commuters travel less than 30 minutes to work. Of the five boroughs, The Bronx has the highest percentage (57%) of auto commuters who drive alone to a job that is less than 30 minutes away from their home. In addition to the thousands of Bronx commuters who drive to work, thousands of more students, deliverers, messengers, recreational riders and regular residents running errands can all benefit from an increased number of bicycle racks.
source: Bronx BP press release
Community calendar
The Venusz Ensemble brings Danza to the Bronx
Friday, November 7
Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture
Música de Cámara, Inc., Eva de la O, executive and artistic director & Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture present, direct from Puerto Rico,The Venusz Ensemble in a gala concert featuring a full program of La Danza Puertorriqueña. Under the direction of violinist Elena Sherbanesco, The Venusz Ensemble is made up of world class and internationally acclaimed women musicians, all members of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra.
The concert will be preceded at 7 p.m. by a paseo by dancers in 19th century period dress.
7:30 p.m., Hostos, 450 Grand Concourse
Repertory Theater
Admission: $15 ($7 for students, seniors and groups of ten or more)
For more information, www.hostos.cuny.edu/culturearts
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Halloween in the Bx
Bronx Underground is celebrating its second ALL AGES DANCE PARTY! And this time - it's a HALLOWEEN PARTY!
This party will be Saturday, October 25, at Bronx Underground @ The First Lutheran Church of Throggs Neck. That’s right – DIY punk resourcefulness means that this alcohol free dance party is in a church rental hall, decked out in Halloween creepiness.
Live performances by dance rock band "Retro Ignite" and indie/glam/hip hop artist "Penelope."
DJs Adam Underground, TimTim Underground and DJ Mike spin electro, indie, rock, techno, mashed up punk and metal, local music, 80s, 90s and more!
Costume contest!
To top it off - a live performance by the NYC cast of the ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW and other crazy surprises all night.
Bronx Underground Halloween Dance Party
@ Bronx Underground @ The First Lutheran Church of Throggs Neck
3075 Baisley Avenue
6 p.m.
All ages
$9
For more information,
www.bronxunderground.com
www.going.com/bxughalloweendanceparty
Contact: bronxunderground@gmail.com
source: Bronx Underground press release
Bronx Underground is celebrating its second ALL AGES DANCE PARTY! And this time - it's a HALLOWEEN PARTY!
This party will be Saturday, October 25, at Bronx Underground @ The First Lutheran Church of Throggs Neck. That’s right – DIY punk resourcefulness means that this alcohol free dance party is in a church rental hall, decked out in Halloween creepiness.
Live performances by dance rock band "Retro Ignite" and indie/glam/hip hop artist "Penelope."
DJs Adam Underground, TimTim Underground and DJ Mike spin electro, indie, rock, techno, mashed up punk and metal, local music, 80s, 90s and more!
Costume contest!
To top it off - a live performance by the NYC cast of the ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW and other crazy surprises all night.
Bronx Underground Halloween Dance Party
@ Bronx Underground @ The First Lutheran Church of Throggs Neck
3075 Baisley Avenue
6 p.m.
All ages
$9
For more information,
www.bronxunderground.com
www.going.com/bxughalloweendanceparty
Contact: bronxunderground@gmail.com
source: Bronx Underground press release
Monday, October 13, 2008
'Aires de Loiza' @ Longwood
Thru Nov 8 / Art Exhibition / Longwood art Gallery @ Hostos Community College, Bronx
Aires de Loiza, Culture & Nature
For more information on the exhibit, www.bronxarts.org
For more photos taken at the exhibit, go to
www.flickr.com/photos/clarisel
Aires de Loiza, Culture & Nature
For more information on the exhibit, www.bronxarts.org
For more photos taken at the exhibit, go to
www.flickr.com/photos/clarisel
Friday, October 10, 2008
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Tego Calderon to Perform at BomPlenazo
Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture presents special guest star
TEGO Calderon “El Abayarde”
in concert with
Los Parranderos de Loíza
and
La Sista
Yerbabuena
7 p.m., Friday, October 10
Main Theater
Hostos Community College/CUNY
450 Grand Concourse at 149 St.
Tickets and Info: 718-518-4455
Tickets also available online at:
www.hostos.cuny.edu/culturearts
source: Hostos
UPDATE FROM HOSTOS: Due to scheduling conflicts, Tego Calderon will not be appearing @ the BomPlenazo. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.
TEGO Calderon “El Abayarde”
in concert with
Los Parranderos de Loíza
and
La Sista
Yerbabuena
7 p.m., Friday, October 10
Main Theater
Hostos Community College/CUNY
450 Grand Concourse at 149 St.
Tickets and Info: 718-518-4455
Tickets also available online at:
www.hostos.cuny.edu/culturearts
source: Hostos
UPDATE FROM HOSTOS: Due to scheduling conflicts, Tego Calderon will not be appearing @ the BomPlenazo. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
BomPlenazo in the Bronx
BomPlenazo is a celebration of Afro-Puerto Rican culture at Hostos Community College in the Bronx. This year's BomPlenazo runs until October 12, and it is dedicated to the Puerto Rican town of Loiza.
Support lo nuestro.
For the lineup of events, go to
http://www.hostos.cuny.edu/culturearts/
(photo by Clarisel Gonzalez)
For more photos, go to my photo site at www.flickr.com/photos/clarisel.
Support lo nuestro.
For the lineup of events, go to
http://www.hostos.cuny.edu/culturearts/
(photo by Clarisel Gonzalez)
For more photos, go to my photo site at www.flickr.com/photos/clarisel.
Tito Kayak @ Hostos
Environmental activist Alberto de Jesus aka Tito Kayak from Puerto Rico speaks at a seminar at Hostos Community College. The one-day seminar was on the effects of development and globalization on traditional cultures focusing on the recent Puerto Rican history of Loíza, the coastal community of Piñones, and the island of Vieques. Tito Kayak is known for his acts of civil disobedience.
Tito Kayak told the packed classroom that being a revolutionary is about standing up against injustice no matter where you are. (photo by Clarisel Gonzalez)
To see more photos from the seminar, go to www.flickr.com/photos/clarisel.
Tito Kayak told the packed classroom that being a revolutionary is about standing up against injustice no matter where you are. (photo by Clarisel Gonzalez)
To see more photos from the seminar, go to www.flickr.com/photos/clarisel.
Monday, October 6, 2008
GAME OVER @ Pregones
Theater
Pregones Theater celebrates the opening of its Fall 2008 season with the acclaimed production Game Over. Running from October 16th through November 2nd, Game Over is about a wager between two super powers. Super D bets that J will resist all punishment. Super P bets that J will be destroyed by it. The game is on. Who will win the bet?
Fridays & Saturdays @ 8 p.m., October 16 to November 2
Weekday Matinee @ 1:30 p.m, October 16 and @ 10:30 a.m., October 22
Special “Jangueo Night” for 21 to 30 crowd, @ 7:30 p.m., October 23
Pregones Theater, 571-575 Walton Avenue
For tickets and more information: (718) 585-1202 or www.pregones.org
Pregones Theater celebrates the opening of its Fall 2008 season with the acclaimed production Game Over. Running from October 16th through November 2nd, Game Over is about a wager between two super powers. Super D bets that J will resist all punishment. Super P bets that J will be destroyed by it. The game is on. Who will win the bet?
Fridays & Saturdays @ 8 p.m., October 16 to November 2
Weekday Matinee @ 1:30 p.m, October 16 and @ 10:30 a.m., October 22
Special “Jangueo Night” for 21 to 30 crowd, @ 7:30 p.m., October 23
Pregones Theater, 571-575 Walton Avenue
For tickets and more information: (718) 585-1202 or www.pregones.org
Saturday, October 4, 2008
My space Bronx: Blogging Live
Gente, stop by the Bronx Blue Bedroom Project on Alexander Avenue today to help create art. You are welcome to stop by until midnight.
The event is being blogged live.
Check out what's going on now at:
myspace- Broadcast your self LIVE
See Thursday entry here for an interview Bronx Latino did with mixed media artist Jorge Rojas and for more information on the Bronx Blue Bedroom Project and Rojas' My space: Bronx painting project. Event is open to the public.
The event is being blogged live.
Check out what's going on now at:
myspace- Broadcast your self LIVE
See Thursday entry here for an interview Bronx Latino did with mixed media artist Jorge Rojas and for more information on the Bronx Blue Bedroom Project and Rojas' My space: Bronx painting project. Event is open to the public.
Community calendar
Viva Bronx!
11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, October 5, 11 a,m.-6 p.m., street fair outside Hostos Community College, Grand Concourse
The Hostos Center's fourth street festival celebrating the South Bronx and its role as a gateway to America for generations of immigrants. Music and dance performances, food and crafts vendors, clowns, jugglers, and more. Guest stars include salsero Michael Stuart, Conjunto Primavera, H4, El Zorro, Fragancia, Neury, Futuro, Jaydee and Popcorn.
Free
For more information, www.hostos.cuny.edu/culturearts
Viva Bronx!
11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, October 5, 11 a,m.-6 p.m., street fair outside Hostos Community College, Grand Concourse
The Hostos Center's fourth street festival celebrating the South Bronx and its role as a gateway to America for generations of immigrants. Music and dance performances, food and crafts vendors, clowns, jugglers, and more. Guest stars include salsero Michael Stuart, Conjunto Primavera, H4, El Zorro, Fragancia, Neury, Futuro, Jaydee and Popcorn.
Free
For more information, www.hostos.cuny.edu/culturearts
Friday, October 3, 2008
The South Bronx celebrates its first international film fest
Steven Rodriguez says one of the main reasons he and Marc Cuevas decided to organize a South Bronx Film Festival is to "portray the South Bronx in a new light to all: in and outside the borough.
"We feel that this event is overdue and could be the beginning event to highlight the investment and work (that is going on) to make this area into a true artistic community," says Rodriguez, community relations director.
The SBX Film Festival, the first international film festival held in the South Bronx, kicks off tonight and runs through Sunday at three venues: the Bruckner Bar & Grill, the Haven Arts Gallery and Pregones Theater. The festival will feature shorts, documentaries and feature-length films.
Highlights of the festival include a retrospective of "Krush Groove" at Bruckner on Saturday night and "Maldeamores" from Puerto Rico on Sunday at Pregones.
According to the festival's mission statement, "The SBX Film festival is a cultural arts enterprise that is meant to inspire, educate and entertain through an annual celebration of the art of motion pictures, year round events and community outreach."
The SBX Film Festival is planning to keep it real by keeping up with the changing nature and community of the South Bronx while always remembering its roots. The festival will feature the best of international filmmakers as well as the best of local urban filmmakers.
Rodriguez recalled that he met Marc Cuevas, festival director, about 10 years ago. "As two Latinos from the Bronx, we first have a personal vested interest in the Bronx," says Rodriguez about why they decided to organize the festival.
"About a year ago, Marc and I met after a six-year separation and he was amazed at the Bronx's transformation but most importantly, the new SBx and its residential artist community," Rodriguez says. "We both agreed the community was here but so was the old SBx stigma to outsiders (the fear of the unknown). We agreed to give it a shot."
Rodriguez acknowledges it wasn't easy organizing and drumming up support for a festival in the South Bronx and that they met skeptics along the way.
"Difficult is too easy a word for this event," says Rodriguez, adding that he and Cuevas turned to their film, political, business and community connections.
And, they have a good network.
The Bronx born Cuevas, who is the festival's founder and senior producer, has spent 15 years in film production. In that time, he has worked on several feature films and is co-founder of the Cinema El Barrio Screening Series.
A graduate of Pace University, Rodriguez specializes in community economic development. He has worked at BOEDC (Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation) as a director of The Bronx Empowerment Zone, as well as for New York City Small Business Solutions. Rodriguez has worked in helping the economic revitalization of the South Bronx.
"We knew where to start trying to get support," Rodriguez says. "We had to call in a lot of favors, and well pleading and begging for people to believe and support our efforts."
The festival's short-term goal is to take advantage of "a well established community and the time was right for a film festival," Rodriguez says.
The long-term goals, he said, include to continue to bring positive attention to the South Bronx and "provide young artists exposure to film festivals on an international level."
For more information on the film festival and the lineup of movies playing, go to www.sbxfilmfestival.com. The cost is $10 a day and $5 for students with identification. -- Clarisel Gonzalez
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Beauties and the Beat
Today's featured shot from the Bronx Latino photo group is by gessleindaniel.
The Nets Dancers came out to the Gallery Lounge in the South Bronx, during a night of Latin Jazz to raise money for scholarships. See more @ www.bxnews.net
The Nets Dancers came out to the Gallery Lounge in the South Bronx, during a night of Latin Jazz to raise money for scholarships. See more @ www.bxnews.net
Artist Spotlight: Jorge Rojas
This mixed media artist seeks community members to help create My space: Bronx in 12 hours
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From noon to midnight Saturday, October 4, community members of all ages are invited to join mixed media artist Jorge Rojas for a one-day marathon to create a collaborative painting inside a Mott Haven bedroom. And, the entire art process will be aired online in real time.
That day participants in My space: Bronx will get the opportunity to work in community, get their clothes dirty and create a masterpiece at the Bronx Blue Bedroom Project, an artist-run space located in the bedroom of Blanka Amezkua. Their work will be captured on video and transmitted live online through www.BlogTv.com/people/myspace.
Rojas' project incorporates painting and new media, exploring "how technology is changing the way we communicate; how we view and interact with art and each other; and the importance of process in art and our daily lives," states Amezkua of the Bedroom Project, which offers contemporary artists a space to showcase their work in a nontraditional art venue.
Bronx Latino spoke with Rojas about his Latino heritage, his art background as well as his upcoming My space: Bronx event and why the community and technology play such an important role in creating his art.
BL: Hi, please tell me a little about you.
JR: I was born in Morelos, Mexico in 1968 and have lived in New York City for about 10 years. I’m currently living in Bushwick, Brooklyn and have worked out of my studio in Williamsburg for the last four years. I also teach mural painting and other art-related workshops to kids through the Brooklyn Arts Council.
BL: How did you discover your art? Did you always know you wanted to be an artist? Who were/are your influences as an artist?
JR: I’m still discovering my art. I began drawing when I was about six but didn’t actually commit to being an artist until I was out of art school. Art is the only career choice that I think will stimulate and challenge me creatively and intellectually for the rest of my life. My artistic influences are too wide and numerous to list here, but Robert Rauschenberg, Joseph Beuys, Felix Gonzales- Torres and Nam June Paik are some of my biggest influences.
BL: Do you think your Mexican/Latino heritage has any influence in your art? Why or why not?
JR: Yes and No. Yes, because being Mexican and having lived in Mexico for much of my life; my Latino heritage is naturally and deeply embedded in who I am. At the same time, I don’t think of myself as a 'Mexican artist.' I just try to make the best work I can and hope it resonates on a universal level.
BL: I understand that in My space: Bronx, you invite the public to take part in a collaborative painting which will encompass all of the surface area of the Blue Bedroom. Do you have an idea of what the painting will be as far as a theme or is that something you and the public come up with at the space?
JR: I have no idea what we will come up with, and this is intentional. The process is what really matters here. Telling people what to paint would completely change the atmosphere of the project and limit the possibilities of the outcome. Spontaneity and indeterminacy are key elements to the success of this project.
BL: Why did you decide to do this project in the Bronx, especially in a bedroom? What role does the actual space play in your project? And, why did you decide to do this marathon project with the theme My space: Bronx?
JR: When Blanka Amezkua invited me to be one of the artists at the BBBP, I had already been planning this project for about eight months. Blanka’s bedroom is perfect for this project. Since it’s a bedroom, it automatically places both the audience and the artwork outside of its normal context. The Blue Bedroom offers an ideal environment for visitors to feel more relaxed and at home, and therefore more open to participating. The Bronx offers a strong sense of community, which is also an important part of the project.
BL: Your project incorporates painting and new media such as video and web casting. Please explain why you decided to incorporate the new media aspect into this project and what role technology plays in your art.
JR: One of the issues I’m exploring is how technology is changing the way we communicate. By placing technological interactivity right next to an environment where human interactivity is encouraged, I hope to shed some light on the differences and limitations of each one. Modern advances in communication tools such as computers, email, text messaging and PDAs offer us instant access and communication. But as we become more and more dependent on these technologies, it’s important to consider if the adoption of these same technologies is simultaneously alienating us from each other. The paradox is that technology can help us to understand this phenomenon and yet it is also partly responsible for it.
BL: Why is transmitting the process online at www.BlogTv.com/people/myspace part of the process? Will the online audience be able to be part of the process? What role will they play?
JR: BlogTV is interesting to me because it allows for extremely democratic communication. Anyone from anywhere who is watching on BlogTV can chime in live during the event and offer their opinion about the project. This is refreshing to me because it helps eliminate some of the exclusivity often associated with gallery and museum openings. Recently I did My space in Mexico and online viewers were asking us to paint their names or other symbols on the paintings because they felt part of the process and wanted to be included.
BL: What is the reason you decided to do this project as a marathon, one-day event? Why is this an important part of the process?
JR: I find that when time is a factor in any given project, and especially when time is limited; people tend to take that time more into consideration and are usually more present, more aware of the process at hand. I think that by limiting the amount of time, people will take more ownership in the process and that the intensity of their participation will increase.
BL: Is My space: Bronx part of a bigger project? Is this a project you do or will do in other spaces in other places?
JR: My space: Bronx is the third installment of a series of interactive pieces I call “Live Gestures.” For the first My space, this summer, I lived for seven days in the storefront window of an ex-monastery turned museum called Ex Convento del Carmen in Guadalajara, Mexico. The second one was at Five Myles Gallery in Brooklyn as part of a political show. Each time I do My space, it takes on a life of its own. Each time I learn different things. I plan to continue doing it in as many spaces as possible.
BL: What should people coming to your event expect to do? I know they should come with clothes they don't mind getting painted. What do you hope participants get out of the process?
JR: People should expect to paint, interact and have fun. I hope that this project encourages people to think about the importance of process and human interaction in our daily lives. That life itself can be an art form. By examining the relationships between artist, viewer, and artwork in different environments, we can better understand how we communicate, how we perceive one another, and why we adopt and play out certain roles within our societies.
BL: Please tell me anything else that I didn't ask that you want to share.
JR: Part of the point of this project is to try and blur the line that normally exists between observer and art and to show that there is art in the process. And, also that ‘reciprocity’ is a concept we don’t see enough of in art.
Those who want to know more about Rojas and his work can check out his website at www.jorgerojasart.com.
To take part in Saturday's My space: Bronx, go to Bronx Blue Bedroom Project, 309 Alexander Ave. Apt. 3A. For more information about Blue Bedroom, visit www.bronxbbp.com -- Clarisel Gonzalez
(photos courtesy of Jorge Rojas)
.jpg)
From noon to midnight Saturday, October 4, community members of all ages are invited to join mixed media artist Jorge Rojas for a one-day marathon to create a collaborative painting inside a Mott Haven bedroom. And, the entire art process will be aired online in real time.
That day participants in My space: Bronx will get the opportunity to work in community, get their clothes dirty and create a masterpiece at the Bronx Blue Bedroom Project, an artist-run space located in the bedroom of Blanka Amezkua. Their work will be captured on video and transmitted live online through www.BlogTv.com/people/myspace.
Rojas' project incorporates painting and new media, exploring "how technology is changing the way we communicate; how we view and interact with art and each other; and the importance of process in art and our daily lives," states Amezkua of the Bedroom Project, which offers contemporary artists a space to showcase their work in a nontraditional art venue.
Bronx Latino spoke with Rojas about his Latino heritage, his art background as well as his upcoming My space: Bronx event and why the community and technology play such an important role in creating his art.
BL: Hi, please tell me a little about you.
JR: I was born in Morelos, Mexico in 1968 and have lived in New York City for about 10 years. I’m currently living in Bushwick, Brooklyn and have worked out of my studio in Williamsburg for the last four years. I also teach mural painting and other art-related workshops to kids through the Brooklyn Arts Council.
BL: How did you discover your art? Did you always know you wanted to be an artist? Who were/are your influences as an artist?
JR: I’m still discovering my art. I began drawing when I was about six but didn’t actually commit to being an artist until I was out of art school. Art is the only career choice that I think will stimulate and challenge me creatively and intellectually for the rest of my life. My artistic influences are too wide and numerous to list here, but Robert Rauschenberg, Joseph Beuys, Felix Gonzales- Torres and Nam June Paik are some of my biggest influences.
BL: Do you think your Mexican/Latino heritage has any influence in your art? Why or why not?
JR: Yes and No. Yes, because being Mexican and having lived in Mexico for much of my life; my Latino heritage is naturally and deeply embedded in who I am. At the same time, I don’t think of myself as a 'Mexican artist.' I just try to make the best work I can and hope it resonates on a universal level.
BL: I understand that in My space: Bronx, you invite the public to take part in a collaborative painting which will encompass all of the surface area of the Blue Bedroom. Do you have an idea of what the painting will be as far as a theme or is that something you and the public come up with at the space?
JR: I have no idea what we will come up with, and this is intentional. The process is what really matters here. Telling people what to paint would completely change the atmosphere of the project and limit the possibilities of the outcome. Spontaneity and indeterminacy are key elements to the success of this project.
BL: Why did you decide to do this project in the Bronx, especially in a bedroom? What role does the actual space play in your project? And, why did you decide to do this marathon project with the theme My space: Bronx?
JR: When Blanka Amezkua invited me to be one of the artists at the BBBP, I had already been planning this project for about eight months. Blanka’s bedroom is perfect for this project. Since it’s a bedroom, it automatically places both the audience and the artwork outside of its normal context. The Blue Bedroom offers an ideal environment for visitors to feel more relaxed and at home, and therefore more open to participating. The Bronx offers a strong sense of community, which is also an important part of the project.
BL: Your project incorporates painting and new media such as video and web casting. Please explain why you decided to incorporate the new media aspect into this project and what role technology plays in your art.
JR: One of the issues I’m exploring is how technology is changing the way we communicate. By placing technological interactivity right next to an environment where human interactivity is encouraged, I hope to shed some light on the differences and limitations of each one. Modern advances in communication tools such as computers, email, text messaging and PDAs offer us instant access and communication. But as we become more and more dependent on these technologies, it’s important to consider if the adoption of these same technologies is simultaneously alienating us from each other. The paradox is that technology can help us to understand this phenomenon and yet it is also partly responsible for it.
BL: Why is transmitting the process online at www.BlogTv.com/people/myspace part of the process? Will the online audience be able to be part of the process? What role will they play?
JR: BlogTV is interesting to me because it allows for extremely democratic communication. Anyone from anywhere who is watching on BlogTV can chime in live during the event and offer their opinion about the project. This is refreshing to me because it helps eliminate some of the exclusivity often associated with gallery and museum openings. Recently I did My space in Mexico and online viewers were asking us to paint their names or other symbols on the paintings because they felt part of the process and wanted to be included.
BL: What is the reason you decided to do this project as a marathon, one-day event? Why is this an important part of the process?
JR: I find that when time is a factor in any given project, and especially when time is limited; people tend to take that time more into consideration and are usually more present, more aware of the process at hand. I think that by limiting the amount of time, people will take more ownership in the process and that the intensity of their participation will increase.
BL: Is My space: Bronx part of a bigger project? Is this a project you do or will do in other spaces in other places?
JR: My space: Bronx is the third installment of a series of interactive pieces I call “Live Gestures.” For the first My space, this summer, I lived for seven days in the storefront window of an ex-monastery turned museum called Ex Convento del Carmen in Guadalajara, Mexico. The second one was at Five Myles Gallery in Brooklyn as part of a political show. Each time I do My space, it takes on a life of its own. Each time I learn different things. I plan to continue doing it in as many spaces as possible.
BL: What should people coming to your event expect to do? I know they should come with clothes they don't mind getting painted. What do you hope participants get out of the process?
JR: People should expect to paint, interact and have fun. I hope that this project encourages people to think about the importance of process and human interaction in our daily lives. That life itself can be an art form. By examining the relationships between artist, viewer, and artwork in different environments, we can better understand how we communicate, how we perceive one another, and why we adopt and play out certain roles within our societies.
BL: Please tell me anything else that I didn't ask that you want to share.
JR: Part of the point of this project is to try and blur the line that normally exists between observer and art and to show that there is art in the process. And, also that ‘reciprocity’ is a concept we don’t see enough of in art.
Those who want to know more about Rojas and his work can check out his website at www.jorgerojasart.com.
To take part in Saturday's My space: Bronx, go to Bronx Blue Bedroom Project, 309 Alexander Ave. Apt. 3A. For more information about Blue Bedroom, visit www.bronxbbp.com -- Clarisel Gonzalez
(photos courtesy of Jorge Rojas)
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
'Reference of Time'
Things to do in the Bx
Launching tonight at the Bronx Museum's Project Space, Reference of Time explores the notion that space and time, are in and of themselves fodder for artistic consumption. Artists take over the space like a temporary squatter whose clutter of possessions challenges boundaries and sparks dialogue between the space itself and its contents. Artists deal with their own thematic concerns
Artists on view: Teo Freytes, Kcho, Ana Ruiz Castilla, Diogenes Ballester, Alfredo Márquez, Alejandro Angeles, Luis García Nerey, Sebastián Potané Masuelli, Miguel Lescano, Sol Romero, Antonia Fonseca, Eliza Merino, Erick González, Fernando Magdaleno, Jorge Miyagui, Moises Ros.
Opening reception 6- 8 p.m. tonight
Exhibit runs through November 1
The Bronx Museum Project Space
11 Bruckner Boulevard
(at the corner of Lincoln Avenue)
A part of the Bronx Latin American Biennial 2008. For more information, call (718) 579-5108 or email bxlatino.bienal@bluetie.com.
source: Bronx Museum
Launching tonight at the Bronx Museum's Project Space, Reference of Time explores the notion that space and time, are in and of themselves fodder for artistic consumption. Artists take over the space like a temporary squatter whose clutter of possessions challenges boundaries and sparks dialogue between the space itself and its contents. Artists deal with their own thematic concerns
Artists on view: Teo Freytes, Kcho, Ana Ruiz Castilla, Diogenes Ballester, Alfredo Márquez, Alejandro Angeles, Luis García Nerey, Sebastián Potané Masuelli, Miguel Lescano, Sol Romero, Antonia Fonseca, Eliza Merino, Erick González, Fernando Magdaleno, Jorge Miyagui, Moises Ros.
Opening reception 6- 8 p.m. tonight
Exhibit runs through November 1
The Bronx Museum Project Space
11 Bruckner Boulevard
(at the corner of Lincoln Avenue)
A part of the Bronx Latin American Biennial 2008. For more information, call (718) 579-5108 or email bxlatino.bienal@bluetie.com.
source: Bronx Museum
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