Faces of Art: The Masks of Zarco Guerreroat

Arizona Museum for Youth
June 23 through October 7, 2007

The beauty, pageantry and power of masks have fascinated people throughout history and have served as reflections of the ever-changing belief systems of different cultures. On June 23, the Arizona Museum for Youth (AMY) presents “Faces of Art: The Masks of Zarco Guerrero,” an exhibition of masks by renowned artist Zarco Guerrero that explores their function as a prime example of culture and their role in building community and personal identity.

Featuring pieces Zarco has created over the last 35 years, the exhibit reveals the power of the mask to transform. Zarco, who has traveled extensively investigating the use of the mask in theater, ritual and ceremony, is also the founder of Xicanindio Artes, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to better understanding of Latino and Native American arts.

“Zarco Guerrero is one of Arizona’s living artistic treasures,” says AMY curator Jeffory Morris. “Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards, including the prestigious Arizona Governor’s Arts Award, and we are truly honored to display his work here at our museum.”

The exhibit is a celebration of diversity, blending elements of Mexican, African, Japanese and Balinese mask-making traditions. Items on display include carved wood masks, ceramic and multimedia installations and works in fiberglass and cast paper. Mask-making activities and art stops will allow children and caregivers to draw and design their own masks and interact with those on view.

The museum will host a special Meet the Artist event for members of the media on June 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Join us for “Faces of Art” and experience the transforming power of masks and learn even more about the nuts and bolts of mask making!

Located at 35 N. Robson in downtown Mesa, the Arizona Museum for Youth (AMY) is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, 12 p.m. through 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for everyone 1 year of age and over. AMY is a fine art museum for children and families that hosts several changing exhibitions each year and features ArtVille, a special art-town for kids less than 4 years of age.
by:www.evliving.com