Art Showcase! in Chicago's Pilsen Neighborhood Brought Trendy and Eclectic Energy to a Vibrant Crowd

By Ogilvie Zavala | Arts Editor, Richard Chiang | Resident Media Director

On March 22nd, Columbia College of Chicago's Latino Alliance showcased local artists at La Casa de Arte y Cultura Calles y Sueños-Chicago in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood. The event, Art Showcase!, attracted a fun mix of university students, fashionistas, photographers, and other creative minds to promote awareness of up-and-coming talent.

Artwork, expressed through a variety of mediums, was displayed throughout the evening while student films were presented to an enthusiastic audience. These three portraits, created with both graphite and pastels, are a part of an on-going installation currently traveling Southeast Asia.

Jorge G. Zavala, whose work has been showcased throughout the USA, Asia, and Europe, was present to support university student talent while also answering questions from local residents relating to his experiences in Asia and Europe. Jorge's most renowned collection, L'Asie Moderne, is currently on display in Bangkok, Thailand.

Attendees were given the opportunity to mingle, embrace the diversity of the artwork, and basque in an ambiance of creative energy and culture while also networking with new faces.

Janet Rodriguez, President of Columbia College's Latino Alliance (from left), stated that her passion for both the Latino and artistic community runs deep. "We at Latino Alliance wanted to bring local artists together to give promotion to their artwork," Rodriguez mentioned. "It is important to showcase their work while having a good time and also meeting new people."

"We wanted to bring together students and artists in a way that was interesting," Janet stated. "The people present are not just from Columbia College: they come from all walks of life."

Janet Rodriguez, Jorge G. Zavala, and aspiring model Juan Alejandro Chavez strike a pose for PdM.

Some of the evening's highlights included intriguing and captivating documentary-style short films from Columbia College students, decorative photography and impressive portraits inspired by Southeast Asian travels, and the exuberance and joie d'etre the Latino Alliance members displayed. Their diligence and motivation was evident, and their desire to bring good people together was a success. PdM attend avec impatience pour la prochaine rencontre créative.

Bisous, bisous.