By MJ Kelly

In the absence of the original art show organizers, Jim and Mary Spicka it was strongly felt by everyone participating, that the success and growth of the art show over the last 4 years mustn’t take a sabbatical for fear of permanently disappearing. Hence the following was determined by a select group of volunteers, sponsors, artists and art aficionados. The 5th annual art show will open on Saturday, Feb 20th, 6:30 at the Rubin Gallery in Santa Cruz. As a group we determined that the show would have fewer artists, a raffle consisting of a donated piece of art by each artist (the draw to take place 9:30 pm on the 20th), the show will run a longer term of up to 30 days and all artists must be in attendance on Feb. 20th to participate. We are very grateful to Susana Rubin for the use of her gallery and have all agreed that a 30% commission will be directed to the Pintando Esperanza Fundacion, a very successful venture contributing to rural schools and to community sustainable industries.

Three successful photographers will be participating with their very original and unique styles; Giorgio Rollo, Kevin Spreitz and Oscar Guzman, clearly a show unto its own. Two sculptors as infinitely different as possible: Richard Saunders with very recognizable and realistic implements of society, and Don Robertson, whose sculptures are organically made with nature’s. Armando Reyes, who brings creativity and vision within his utilitarian works combining the works of other artists both visually and through their music, will provide a perspective from the artisan world while providing perfectly balanced and lovely sound.

The five painters range from traditional to abstract impressionism, from young to retired. Huatulco’s Rafael Ortega will exhibit with an intriguing and colorful expedition towards abstraction. Twelve year old Maria Steta, who naturally and uninhibitedly grasps the concepts and elements of design, will display her poised style. Mary Guzman is rediscovering her artistic talent, while fellow artist Ann McCleod is a well-known American artist from Arizona who has a wide range of skill, success and vision. MJ “Kelly” is loving her retired freedom to discover new impressions of life in large, colorful expressions using anything and everything in her current ‘moment’.

We, as artists, are very grateful to our supportive public, benefactors, mentors and especially to our sponsors of this art show: The Eye Magazine, Bayside Real Estate, Café Juanita, Unlimited Vacations and Resort Real Estate Services. We recognize and celebrate the support of the Huatulco community for its inspiration and celebration of art as a natural component of life.