The Centro Cultural de la Raza in Balboa Park has been a foundational cornerstone of the Chicano art movement since it first opened in 1970. Fortunately, a well-publicized seven-year boycott--led by some of the institution's founding member artists over policies enacted by the new administration in 2000--has just been amicably resolved. The result: an ambitious exhibition titled RE:UNION C/S, which features the work of 44 Chicano and Latino artists in a variety of media. It is on view through August 12.
The "C/S" in the title stands for "con safos," a term that is understood in the Chicano community to mean "with respect." It is a tribute to the new relationship forged between the Centro's Board of Trustees and the Save Our Centro Coalition that organized the boycott. Looking forward, the exhibition presents not only the works of many of the Centro's founding artists, like Victor Ochoa, Victor Payán, and Yolanda Lopez, but art of the new generation of Chicano/Latino artists, including Nuvia Crisol Guerra and Chikle, who are exhibiting at the Centro for the first time.
The Centro Cultural de la Raza is a highly visible Balboa Park landmark. The striking, brightly colored murals that cover its circular facility are difficult to miss driving up Park Boulevard, just north of President's Way. Its mission to promote Mexicano, Chicano, Latino and indigenous culture encompasses a variety of art forms including music, visual arts, theater, and dance.
For more information on the Centro's programs and classes, visit www.centroraza.com.
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