Inspiration, Harmony Drive ‘Matizando Mexico & Diversity’ Show
El Paso’s Classical Impressionists Premiere 60+ New Works
at International Museum of Art, Running July 2 to Aug. 23

Houston’s Mexican Consulate Patrons
Laud Recent Binational Exhibit


El Paso, Texas—Riding a wave of accolades from its recently-wrapped international premiere at the Consulate General of Mexico in Houston, Classical Impressionists of El Paso (CIEP) debuts 60+ works never viewed regionally at the International Museum of Art (IMA), Sunday, July 12, 2009 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. “Matizando (Harmony) Mexico & Diversity” officially runs July 2 through Aug. 23rd at IMA, 1211 Montana Ave., showcasing diverse inspirations derived from the binational area’s people, places, culture and landscapes.

Hundreds viewed the Houston exhibit, which opened May 7th, including numerous dignitaries, other Consulates and several Texas state officials. In addition to the Matizando pieces inspired by divergent personal experiences and appreciation for Mexico, CIEP also presents a variety of its best work from other themes entirely new to the El Paso art scene. CIEP credits the International Museum of Art’s dedication to El Paso-area artists, lending its superb facilities for displaying their creations.

“We’re extremely fortunate to share The Matizando Mexico Exhibition with our hometown at the International Museum of Art, one of the city’s most supportive venues for local artists,” said Lynne Welch, one of six CIEP members. “This show celebrates the harmony, respect and love between the people, culture and beauty of Mexico and the United States. It promotes the commonalities between the people of several countries, building bridges at this time in our history.”

The progressive group of artists first presented together at Chamizal National Park Gallery last fall. In this show, CIEP offers a unique perspective of various cultures, emphatically the American Southwest and the rich cultural heritage and traditions of sister country Mexico. Their own diversity ranges from New Jersey, U.S.A. to Chihuahua, Mexico, each bringing to the group an individual vision unique to the various life experiences. The 60+ pieces exhibiting at International Museum of Art are all sized at least 18”x24.”

“Our work about traditions and places offers a different view and perspective of the culturally diverse theme,” said CIEP’s Carmen “Kany” Rodriguez.

“The work we prepared expressly for Matizando was received exactly as we intended, an expression of our affection for the people, culture and country of Mexico,” said CIEP’s David Fickett about the Houston premiere. “I have never felt more welcomed and appreciated as an artist. We’re honored to bring this special exhibit back home to El Paso.”

“This art truly represents the different places, colors and flavors of Mexico,” said El Pasoan and art aficionado Leah Baker, who attended the reception. “Many viewers exclaimed, ‘This is what it looks like where I am from in Mexico!’ because the work captures the country’s inspiring beauty in seashores, canyons, wooded areas and deserts.”

Other attendees agreed.

“Every artist of the group had at least one piece that I would have loved to own,” said Nicholas Johnson. “There was something for all tastes, be it people, a tranquil meadow, a joyous celebration or a spectacular view from the edge of a canyon.”

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With several recipients of juried competitions, CIEP members include Nina Cobb Walker, Richelle Moore, Neil Gunn, Fickett, Rodriguez and Welch. Some prefer landscapes, others still life, but all draw on each other’s experiences and encouragement.

CIEP studied for years as protégés of internationally renowned Aleksander and Lyuba Titovets at the Titovets School of Art in El Paso. Like the original Impressionists 150 years ago, CIEP banded efforts to share the artistic endeavors with international communities while continually exploring, discovering and supporting each other’s individuality.

For more information about Classical Impressionists of El Paso, the Matizando Mexico & Diversity premiere July 12 (running July 2 through Aug. 23), or the International Museum of Art, contact Lynne Welch at (915) 309-4202 or log on to www.internationalmuseumofart.net or www.classicalimpressionistsofelpaso.com

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