Tag: San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum

Mujer-Eres: Raíces – Celebrating the Strength and Stories of Women Through Art

Mujer-Eres: Raíces is currently on view at the San Benito Cultural Center until June 7. Photo: Sandra Cruz

Art plays a vital role in fostering community, especially when created by women artists who bring diverse perspectives and unique storytelling to the canvas. Their work highlights social issues, cultural heritage, and personal narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. For art lovers, these creations offer not only beauty but also a meaningful connection to different experiences and viewpoints.

Public art, galleries, and community exhibitions provide spaces for dialogue, inspiration, and empowerment. By supporting women artists, communities enrich their cultural landscape, encourage creative expression, and promote inclusivity, ensuring that art continues to be a powerful force for unity and change.

The current exhibition at the San Benito Cultural Center, Mujer-Eres: Raíces, features women artists and their diverse experiences, both personal and societal. It runs until June 7 and admission is included with your visit to the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum. Exhibits include mixed media, ceramics, and paintings. If you’re an art lover, make plans to see this exceptional exhibition that will no doubt resonate with you, especially if you’re a woman. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this exhibition to San Benito.

Mujer-Eres: Raíces is a contemporary art group exhibition that showcases the diverse talent of women artists and is currently on view at the San Benito Cultural Center. The exhibition was coordinated by RGV artists Sam Rawls and Ceci Sierra and curated by Aleida García and Joaquin Castillo. (San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, 2025)

The well attended opening of Mujer Eres: Raíces was held on Saturday March 8 and coincided with the International Women’s Day celebration. The evening’s event brought together art lovers, family, friends, and community leaders to celebrate the diversity of women artists and their contributions to the art community. It consisted of special speakers, snacks, and best of all, live DJ music by Queen Killa Bee.

The exhibition is divided as such:

Exhibition Room 2: Fragments of Youth and its Discomforts – these works explores the concept of youth in all its intricacies.

Works:
“Ice Cream Cone”
“Learn from MeMe”
“Tequila Sunrise (undone)”
“Buried Under Conformity and Obligation”
“Uneven Lines”
“Dyed Hair”

Exhibition Room 1: Sacred Self, Self Aware, and Ritual Healing – an amplification of the societal demands of works in Room 2.

Works:
“Sumision”
“Prickly”
“Whispers of the Unseen”
“Pray With Me”
“Recetas, Remedios y Raices”
“Memory Weaving: Mi mama y yo y el arbol grande”

Exhibition Room 3: Snapshots in Approach of Resolution – explores the capacity to exist in and commit acts of softness and harshness.

Works:
“Disquietude”
“Untitled”
“War”
“Sunrise”
“Abridged”
“Impression: Sunrise at a Restaurant”

Museum Hours:
Monday through Thursday
10a.m. to 4p.m.
Fridays
10a.m. to 1p.m.

San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum
250 E. Heywood St
San Benito, TX 78586

Photo: Sandra Cruz
Photo: Sandra Cruz
Photo: Sandra Cruz
Photo: Sandra Cruz
Photo: San Benito Cultural Center

Sacred Echoes: The Power of Art in ‘Vestigios de lo Sagrado’ at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum

Vestigios de lo Sagrado: A Solo Exhibition By Mitch D’arte is currently on view at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum.

The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum is delighted to introduce the decade-long collection of work by McAllen-based artist Mitch D’arte in her first solo exhibition of this scale in Cameron County. Vestigios de lo Sagrado: A Solo Exhibition by Mitch D’arte is on view from now until April 17, 2025.

Vestigios de lo Sagrado features over 30 paintings and installations — created with collected, donated, and found artifacts. Each of these is a meditation on the role of religious iconography and the role of the individual in the crafting and veneration of them. Inspired by the artist’s relationship with her late mother, there are intentionally unfinished elements that bring some of the work to a halt and invite the viewer to complete the image or reflect on their own relationship to it. In doing so, D’arte is creating a space of not only retrospection but a peek into potential, personal futures. (San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, 2025)

The opening reception took place on Saturday February 8 and began with a speech from Aleida Garcia, Director of the San Benito Cultural Arts Department (CAD) where she welcomed everyone to the exhibit and expressed her thanks to everyone who worked hard to make it happen. She introduced the artist, Mitch D’Arte, and encouraged guests to ask questions and enjoy the artwork.

Guests to the event were able to enjoy classical and guitar music by Jorge Mascorro, guitar teacher at the San Benito CISD as well as light snacks while mingling with fellow art lovers from the community.

The exhibition captivates with its various religious exhibits as the artist explores the complexities of faith and ritual. It blends traditional religious imagery with contemporary artistry and each piece invites reflection on the intersection of art, spirituality, and cultural identity. D’Arte’s techniques and bold interpretations offer a fresh, profound perspective on the power of sacred visual language. It includes works in mixed media, canvas, and exquisitely delicate veil, some in various stages of completion and vivid colors that bring religious icons to life.

Religious art has captivated art lovers for centuries due to its deep emotional and spiritual resonance. Often depicting divine figures, sacred events, and religious symbolism, it serves as a bridge between the material and the divine. The intricate artistry and vivid colors invoke a sense of reverence and awe and often embodies cultural traditions, offering a window into history, beliefs, and rituals. With its ability to induce profound contemplation, it connects people to universal themes of faith, salvation, and the mysteries of existence, making it deeply compelling for art lovers. Art lovers, this is one exhibition you won’t want to miss. Stop by the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum to enjoy this exhibition by McAllen’s own Mitch D’arte.

Museum Hours:
Monday-Thursday
10a.m. – 4p.m.
Fridays
10a.m. – 1p.m.

Guided tours and in-person access are available throughout the exhibit dates, and virtual programs, such as video presentations, interviews, and virtual tours are available through the museum’s social medial platforms.

San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum
250 E. Heywood St.
San Benito, TX 78586

Uncovering the Stories of Life and Death on the Border: A Visit to the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum

The exhibition ‘Life & Death on the Border 1910-1920’ will be on view until February 2025.

Remembering our historical past, both the good and bad, is essential for staying connected to our roots and understanding how we arrived at the present. Acknowledging past triumphs can inspire pride and unity, while reflecting on mistakes offers valuable lessons in avoiding repetition of errors. By examining history, we gain perspective on social, political, and cultural progress, helping us navigate contemporary challenges with wisdom. Moreover, remembering history fosters empathy, respect, and a deeper sense of identity, ensuring we honor those who came before and build a more informed, inclusive future. History guides us in shaping a better tomorrow.

Earlier this month, I attended the opening reception for the traveling exhibition Life & Death on the Border 1910-1920 at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum.

Speakers included Aleida Garcia, San Benito Cultural Arts Department Director, Ricardo Madrigal, and Rudy Garcia, local writer and poet who shared the story of the Jacinto Treviño. Jacinto Treviño is the subject of a well-known Border corrido, or ballad, in which the hero successfully escapes after a run-in with the Texas Rangers.

The exhibition itself is filled with local history and interesting historical facts including Border Renaissance-Literature, Prejudice and Racial Strife, and the history behind the formation of the League of United Latin American Citizens. One of the highlights is the tribute to the annual Día de los Muertos Caminata, which includes original artwork and an altar that features the names of known victims of border violence during those years, especially those who were denied due process and indiscriminately killed.

Overall, it’s an excellent reminder of the early history of the Rio Grande Valley. It is worth checking out, especially for those who are native to the area; you might just learn something new.

More information:

Life & Death on the Border 1910–1920 is a traveling exhibition created by the Refusing to Forget Project in partnership with the Bullock Museum. This powerful exhibition explores a turbulent period in Texas history, shedding light on the violence, resistance, and resilience that shaped the U.S.-Mexico borderlands during the early 20th century. (San Benito Cultural Arts Department, 2024)

Through a compelling collection of panels, on loan from The Mexican American Museum of Texas, depicting historical artifacts, photographs, and narratives, visitors will gain insight into the societal struggles and cultural transformations that defined this era. The exhibition serves as a platform for reflection and dialogue, honoring the voices and stories of communities profoundly impacted by these events.

As part of the exhibition, the San Benito Cultural Center is thrilled to acknowledge and pay tribute to the annual Dia de los Muertos Caminata, organized by Mr. Ricardo Madrigal. Now in its fifth year, the caminata is a 3-mile trek from San Benito’s Heavin Park to the State Historical Marker placed at the Southbound Exit 16 rest area memorializing the lives lost during this turbulent time in our history. Original artwork for four of the five years will be on display and paired with an altar in remembrance.

The exhibition is on view at the San Benito Cultural Center, located at 225 E. Stenger Street, San Benito, TX 78586, and will run through February 8, 2025. Admission for this exhibition is part of the general admission for the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, and the public is invited to explore this important chapter in border history.

San Benito Cultural Center
225 E Stenger St
San Benito, TX 78586

Map of the US/Mexico Border
Tribute to the Dia De Los Muertos Caminata
Information is presented in posters by decade.
The victims of the times.
Life & Death on the Border

Honoring Freddy Fender: An Exhibit Celebrating a Cultural Icon’s Enduring Legacy

Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta is currently in view until November 9 at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum.

Freddy Fender was a celebrated American singer and songwriter known for his unique blend of country, rock, and Tejano music. Born on June 4, 1937 in San Benito, Texas, he gained fame in the 1970s with hits like “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” and “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights.” Fender’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with a diverse audience, bridging cultural gaps. He was a key figure in the Chicano music movement, showcasing the rich heritage of Mexican-American artists. Despite personal struggles, his legacy endures, influencing generations of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on American music.

The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum is proud to present the first ever Freddy Fender Estate-sanctioned exhibit that spotlights musical trailblazer Freddy Fender, the stage name of Mexican American icon Baldemar Huerta, and coincides with the 50th anniversary of the recording of the album “Before The Next Teardrop Falls.” (San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, 2024)

Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta will be on exhibit from now until November 9, 2024. It is part of the ongoing collaboration between Veronique Medrano, a local archivist and musician, and the San Benito Department of Cultural Arts.

The opening reception took place on Thursday September 26 and began with speeches from co-curators Veronique Medrano and Aleida Garcia, San Benito Mayor Ricardo “Rick” Guerra, and City Manager Fred Sandoval. At the well-attended event, guests were able to enjoy DJ-provided music and light snacks while browsing the exhibit hall and mingling with fellow fans of Freddy Fender and community members alike. It’s always enlightening to learn new and/or lesser known facts about musicians and whether you’re a fan or not, Fender’s influence in music is undeniable. This exhibit is the first of its kind in San Benito and the Rio Grande Valley, so if you’re a music fan, a fan of Freddy Fender, or music history in general, I encourage you to stop by see it for yourself. The pictures and displays bring his story to life.

The exhibition walks visitors through the history of San Benito’s hometown hero and Fender’s impact on pop, Tejano, country, and rock music worldwide. Guests to the museum can view this once in a lifetime collection of objects and memorabilia as well as a selection of private collection artifacts including a commemorative plaque of Fender’s star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame, wardrobe worn during the filming of videos and movies, like The Milagro Beanfield War, and concert posters.

Some of the categories in the exhibit include:

“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights”
Fame Interrupted
Fender Beyond Music
Los Supergroups

Guided tours and in-person access are available. Virtual programming, such as video presentations, interviews, and virtual tours will be available through the museum’s social media platforms.

Museum hours:
Monday through Thursday
10a.m. – 4p.m.
Fridays
10a.m. – 1p.m.

San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum
250 East Heywood
San Benito, TX 78586

Sandra Cruz and Aleida Garcia
Co-curators Aleida Garcia and Veronique Medrano
Freddy Fender’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Exhibit information
Guests to the exhibit