enculturating las vegas into the next millennium... art, dance, film, music, poetry, theater, history, nature and everything else that enriches the lives of those who live and visit southern nevada... Since 2003...

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Governors Arts Awards in Las Vegas & Major announcement to be made by the Governor...

World Market Center
This evening we will be celebrating the 30th Annual Governors Arts Awards in Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas with several groups and individuals being honored for their dedication to the arts. The event will take place at the World Market Center with stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown.

Congratulations to the 2010 Governors Arts Awards recipients
  • Ellen Hopkins, Carson City
  • Patricia Harris, Las Vegas
  • Marcia Robinson, West Las Vegas.
  • Thai Cultural Arts Association, Las Vegas
  • Nevada School of the Arts, Las Vegas
  • Contemporary Arts Center, Las Vegas
  • NV Energy, Statewide















The Governors Arts Awards are sold out so stay tuned for photos and lots of news from the social event of the year...

April 1st is in the air...

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Brent Sommerhauser @ Brett Wesley Gallery April 1st...

Brent Sommerhauser will be the featured artist at Brett Wesley Gallery this coming Thursday.

Brett Wesley Gallery is located at
1112 South Casino Center Boulevard
702.433.4433
inquire@brettwesley.com
www.brettwesleygallery.com

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Downtown Photo Essay #2... Intelligent Architecture for the 21st Century...

One thing is well known about Las Vegas, it is not known for its iconic and timeless architecture outside of the spectacle that is created on the Las Vegas Strip. Even the university has demolished many of its iconic mid-century modern structures in favor of the new. Though the winds of change are in the air especially in Downtown, where several structures have risen over the last 15 years that have a created a unique style that is respectful of the desert environment while at the same time creating a new neighborhood that has grown organically.

The Grand Central Parkway and Bonneville Corridor is one of the first places in Las Vegas in over 40 years where buildings have been built independently and yet designed to be in symphony with each other. This is most evident with the use of color palettes, design elements, materials and heights that all work quite beautifully together. This past weekend I walked the area and felt a sense of peace that I had not felt before in my native home; The buildings, the colors, the sights and sounds all working together gave me hope that a great future is destined for our Downtown.

If you have not gone down to Symphony Park I would highly suggest it. Just park your car at the Premium Outlet Mall or at the Clark County Government Center and walk the area. I guarantee that you will not be disappointed. See you Downtown...

World Market Center & Cleveland Clinic
Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health
at Grand Central Parkway

 













Clark County Government Center Sign














Clark County Government Center














World Market Center looking South
on Grand Central Parkway
















World Market Center














World Market Center looking West






The Molasky Corporate Center on
the North end of Grand Central Parkway

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Tuesday, March 30, 2010

ARTrageous Vegas! Art Extravaganza - Submission deadline extended...

We have extended the deadline for submissions to the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada's ARTrageous Vegas Art show. The deadline is now April 15 so you do not have an excuse for not participating in this historic event. For seven years the LGBT Center has celebrated the beginning of the Annual Pride Festivities with this signature event and this year it is bringing the show Downtown. For more information about the show please follow the link.
http://www.thecenterlv.com/ARTrageousVegasCallForArtists.pdf


Nevada Public Radio 
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link 
http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm  

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Artist Miguel Rodriguez to be featured @ the Electronic Music Cafe...

One of Las Vegas's most prolific sculptors Miguel Rodriguez will be featured at one of Downtown's newest attractions the Electronic Music Cafe this coming First Friday. Goodness knows there is something special about Miguel's works when it is juxtaposed next to the sultry and soulful sounds of Jesse Saunders House Music. This show is going to have to be a must stop on the First Friday traverse. So if you just happen to be in the area make sure to stop by the EMC at 1308 South Main Street and say hello for it should be a great party.

Nevada Public Radio 
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link 
http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm  

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Monday, March 29, 2010

Downtown Photo Essay #1... A Stimulating Success Story...

This is the first of a series of Downtown Las Vegas photo essay's that I will be blogging about in the next coming weeks about the positive developments that are happening within walking distance of my home. The future of Downtown is looking very bright despite the economic downturn that has hurt our community. These positive developments will have long lasting effects for the creation of a sustainable future built on economic diversification. Working together we can make Las Vegas's future very bright for generations to come.

"While other industries have suffered, the nonprofit arts world continues to build in strength while it encourages the growth of innumerable small businesses on its periphery, thereby creating more jobs." Louise Slaughter, Congresswoman

Please click on photos to enlarge... Have a wonderful day!
18b Sign Welcoming people to Las Vegas's Arts District
Arts District NEW ACE Rapid Transit Station

















The Neon Museum's restored 5th Street Liquor Store Sign
New ACE System bus arriving at Transportation Center Station
New ACE bus pulling out of station infront of
New Transit Terminus Under Construction
Transit Center bus station with 5th Street Liquor Sign
from the Neon Museum


Casino Center Corridor beautification - Looking North
Casino Center Corridor beautification - Looking South

New Downtown Bus Terminus Under Construction


New Las Vegas City Hall Under Construction
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
under construction at Symphony Park
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
A photo of me standing at the future Symphony Park Site
with Smith Center and Lou Ruvo Center in background
Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health
Designed by Architect Frank Gehry


















For more information on the ACE Rapid Transit System
http://www.rtcsouthernnevada.com/transit/ace.cfm

For more information on the New Downtown Transportation Terminal
http://www.rtcsnv.com/transit/terminals.cfm

For more information on the New Las Vegas City Hall
http://www.lasvegasnevada.gov/information/20212.htm

For more information on the Smith Center for the Performing Arts
http://www.thesmithcenter.com/

For more information on the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health
http://www.keepmemoryalive.org/Pages/default.aspx

Photos taken by Brian Paco Alvarez


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Sunday, March 28, 2010

Contemporary Arts Center ANNOUNCMENTS...


The CAC's 21st ANNUAL JURIED SHOW

Juried by Jeff Gauntt

Opening Reception Wednesday March 31st, 6-9
Juror's Remarks, Awards Ceremony at 7
Preview Thursday 6-9
First Friday 6-10

Participating artists: http://www.lasvegascac.org/

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Best of Show - Jim Stanford and Lynn Morris
The Bemis Award a CAC member's award - Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts
Brett Wesley Award - Brett Wesley Gallery
Third Prize - Trifecta Gallery, Kathy & George Garlock
Honorable Mentions sponsored by Desert Art Supplies and Framing Studio Inc.
Thanks to Steven Baskin, and Wirtz Beverage Nevada!
And a special thanks to all of our AJS volunteers!



downtown contemporary:
Art Dinner and CAC fundraiser

“downtown contemporary” features work representative of five downtown contemporary art galleries: Contemporary Arts Center, Trifecta Gallery, Henri & Odette, Brett Wesley Gallery and The Fallout Gallery. The works will be on view in the West Wing Gallery of Rosemary’s Restaurant from April 11-June 19th. In conjunction with the exhibition, the award-winning fine dining establishment is hosting their first Art Dinner on April 13th in honor of National Arts Advocacy Day as a special fundraiser for the Contemporary Arts Center. This event recognizes and promotes the value of the contemporary arts within the Las Vegas community.

The evening kicks off with a cocktail reception at 6:00, followed by dinner at 7:00. The focus of the dinner will be on contemporary art in Las Vegas, offering informal presentations by downtown gallery owners, directors and artists. The program includes Wendy Kveck and Grayson Ronk from the CAC, Marty Walsh from Trifecta Gallery, Victoria Hart from Brett Wesley Gallery and Jennifer Harrington and Danielle Kelly from Henri & Odette. They will be discussing the growth and vision of the downtown contemporary arts scene and the artworks in the exhibition. Victoria Hart will offer some insights on developing an art collection. The evening also features a four-course menu by Chef Michael Jordan with special drink pairings.

Tickets are $115, all inclusive, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Contemporary Arts Center. Seating is limited to 50 guests. Please contact Rosemary’s Restaurant at 702-869-2251 for reservations with a credit card. Menu and directions may be found on the website at http://www.rosemarysrestaurant.com/ Contact Wendy Kveck at 702-869-9002 or wendykveck@gmail.com for more information about the exhibition.

For more information
http://lasvegascac.org/

More information and online registration: CAC News

Contemporary Art Center
Las Vegas Nevada
107 East Charleston Blvd. Suite 120
Las Vegas, Nevada
Phone: 702 382 3886
http://www.lasvegascac.org/

The Contemporary Arts Center is a non-profit 501(c)3 art organization dedicated to presenting new, high quality, visual, and performing art, while striving to build, educate, and sustain audiences for contemporary art.The CAC strives to provide a place where artist can learn about best practices, test new ideas in the public arena, and connect with fellow artists within and beyond our own community.

Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm  

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

City of the World Gallery Celebrates 4 years....

Come celebrate with founder Roz Knight, the gallery's featured artist for April! She's showing her own bold, colorful artwork and it's about time. Join her Friday night, April 2nd, at City of the World Gallery.

I've Got a Feeling!

Take a look at City of the World's website. We have classes, learn ways to recycle plastic bags Saturday, April 3, with Carrie Bourdeau; call her at 332-7894 to sign up.

Kristi Watson's second sessions of "Art for Home-schoolers," "Introduction to Art Silver Clay," and "Little Artists" are starting up the end of April. Contact Kristi at 328-8311 or kristi.watson1@gmail.com

Get on line for more information and be sure to forward this to your friends. http://www.cityoftheworld.org/

Be a Friend or Best Friend of First Friday. Go to http://www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org/fundraise.html City of the World artists offer 10% discount on selected items when you show your "Friend" card.

Use http://www.goodsearch.com/ search engine. Each time you search the Internet, First Friday receives a donation at no cost to you. Type "Whirlygig" in the "Who do you goodsearch for?" box, click the yellow "verify" box and you're searching to benefit First Friday Las Vegas!

Need place to hold a business meeting?

City of the World is the place. Contact Roz Knight at 523-5306 to put in your reservation!

Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm  

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Brave New Ballet... This Afternoon!

The Nevada Ballet Theater is poised to unveil its latest creation this weekend with dances inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's tale the Song of the Nightingale with choreography by local artist Gail Gilbert; a new contemporary piece by Wideman/ Davis Dance Company Artistic Director Thaddeus Davis; and ending the evening with Cyclical Night, a tango-inspired piece by Nevada Ballet Theatre’s own Artistic Director James Canfield set to the music of Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla.

This is a show not to be missed and goodness knows I will be there to witness what James Canfield has created with the music of my parents homeland of Argentina. With two performances this weekend you have no excuse not to make it out and support one of Las Vegas's great cultural institutions. See you at the ballet!

Brave New World will take place this coming weekend at the Artemis Ham Concert Hall on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas...
Saturday, March 27 @ 8pm
Sunday, March 28 @ 2pm

For more information please visit the Nevada Ballet Theater site at http://www.nevadaballet.com/index.html

Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm 

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Friday, March 26, 2010

Brian Porray... An Artist coming of Age...

Brian Porray at Donna Beam Gallery
This evening Brian Porray will celebrate a great accomplishment with his thesis show as he prepares to receive his Master of Fine Arts degree from the UNLV Department of Fine Art. It is not often that I have greatly admired such an upcoming artists work but Brian is one of the few. The minute I saw his work I was pleasantly surprised at his subjects and color palette and one that left me feeling giddy for more. If you have nothing to do tonight or if you do, cancel it, because I will assure that you will not regret being in the company of such a delightful artist and his fabulous work...

This evening he will unveil his greatest collection yet -
Moon Zero X-M

The reception will take place at the Donna Beam Gallery of Fine Art on the campus of UNLV
4505 Maryland Parkway - Alta Ham Fine Art Building - 6PM

For more information about Brian's work please visit his site at http://brianporray.blogspot.com/

For more information about the Donna Beam Gallery of Fine Art please visit http://donnabeamgallery.unlv.edu/

Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Thursday, March 25, 2010

The Art of War @ the Atomic Testing Museum...


From Swords to Plowshares: Metal Trench Art from World War I

From Swords to Plowshares exhibit offers a glimpse into the acclaimed collection of 150 pieces of World War I trench art.

On display April 1, 2010 through June 14, 2010

For more information about the Atomic Testing Museum please visit there site at http://www.atomictestingmuseum.org/ 

Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm  

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

There is a desert out there waiting for you...

With all the rains that we have had over the last few months in the Mojave Desert the bloom season is expected to be spectacular, especially in the high deserts around the Las Vegas Valley. An hour drive in any direction will take you to several national parks, monuments and conservation areas that will allow you to enjoy the beauty that the desert has to offer. This weekend I am planning one of my trips to Death Valley National Park to go see the desert bloom. Here are a few photos from my previous trips and some further information about areas in the region for you to enjoy.

For more information on these parks please see the links section of this blog and look under Nature. Or just follow these links...

Goldwell Open Air Museum - http://www.goldwellmuseum.org/
Death Valley National Park - http://www.nps.gov/deva/index.htm
China Ranch Date Farm - http://www.chinaranch.com/

If you do plan a trip to Death Valley the best way to get there, at least the most scenic in my opinion, is by taking the I-95 North to Beatty (120 miles or about an hour). Once you get to the stop sign in the middle of town take a left onto the 374. Drive 5 miles to the Rhyolite Ghost Town turn off or continue going forward to the gateway to Death Valley. The road seem to go off into infinity. Make sure to stop by the National Park Sign to take a few photos before you head into the park.

If you are so inclined for a refreshment in Beatty before you head to Death Valley make sure to stop by the Sourdough Saloon one of the best Saloons West of the Mississippi!

Safe Trip!
A bloom of desert flowers near China Ranch Date Farm
Rhyolite Ghost Town at the Gateway to Death Valley
Rhyolite Ghost Town Train Depot
Goldwell Open Air Museum sculptures near Rhyolite
(this photo posted with permission from the Goldwell Open Air Museum)
Scotty's Castle in Death Valley
Ubehebe Crater Death Valley
Photos taken by Brian Paco Alvarez
 
 

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 1 Comments

Shawn Hummel @ CENTERpiece Gallery...

Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Monday, March 22, 2010

The 30th Annual Governors Arts Awards and Oasis 2010 Conference in Las Vegas...

Well my cultural friends from across the state have been asking me to get the word out about two great Cultural Arts events that will be happening in Las Vegas a month from now. Of course those events are the 30th Annual Governors Arts Awards and the Oasis 2010 Conference. Below is more information about these great cultural events.

The Governors Arts Awards will be celebrated on April 1, 2010 at the Las Vegas Design Center located at the World Market Center in Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas. With awesome views of Las Vegas from the 16h floor the award ceremony should not be missed.

The 2010 Governors Arts Awards Recipients are as follows -
  • Ellen Hopkins, Carson City
  • Patricia Harris, Las Vegas
  • Marcia Robinson, West Las Vegas.
  • Thai Cultural Arts Association, Las Vegas
  • Nevada School of the Arts, Las Vegas
  • Contemporary Arts Center, Las Vegas
  • NV Energy, Statewide
OASIS 2010: Harnessing Nevada's Cultural Power
APRIL 2, 2010

OASIS 2010 features a growing roster of engaging and highly regarded speakers, including Matt Robenalt - Executive Director, Fort Collins Downtown Development Authority; Laura Scanlan - Team Leader, States, Regions, Local Arts Agencies and Accessibility Program Division, National Endowment for the Arts; Katharine Hayward - Project Director, Statewide Forums on Careers in Arts, National Arts and Disability Center; and Anthony Radich - Executive Director, Western States Arts Federation, as well as Janet Brown, Executive Director of Grantmakers in the Arts, David O’Fallon – Director, McPhail Music Center, Minneapolis, MN; Renee Piechocki – director, Office of Public Art, Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, Pittsburgh, PA; and Jon Winet – new media artist and faculty, University of Iowa School of Art & Art History and and Todd Felts, director of graduate studies, UNR Reynolds School of Journalism. Plenary and breakout sessions are designed for artists, arts organizations, communities, and educators.

For spirit renewal, sign up for the Public Art Tour of the CityCenter's Public Art Collection during the pre-conference on Friday April 1st and the Goldwell Open Air Museum excursion to Beatty on Saturday April 3rd.

PLEASE REGISTER FOR OASIS 2010/GOVERNOR'S ARTS AWARDS BY MARCH 19, 2010.

For more information about the Governors Arts Awards and the Oasis 2010 Conference Please visit the Nevada Arts Council website at http://nevadaculture.org/nac/

For those of you travelling from outside of Las Vegas...
Professional Development Grants (PDG)
Grants of up to $350 can support your attendance at OASIS 2010/Governor's Arts Awards if you travel more than 100 miles roundtrip. Available first-come, first-served, on a reimbursement basis, PDGs may cover all expenses except for registration costs. Download PDG Application. Please note that the PDG narrative section should be short and concise.

Accommodations
Reserve your room at the Golden Nugget in downtown Las Vegas for the remarkable rate of $39 + 13% room tax Wednesday, March 31, and Thursday, April 1, and $49 + 13% room tax for Friday and Saturday.
Call 800-634-3454 prior to March 15, 2010 and mention OASIS 2010 Conference for Nevada Arts Council group, code #1CF28K to take advantage of these amazing room rates.

Fly Southwest
Southwest Airlines are offering $59 flights to and from Las Vegas. Take a break and make your reservations today! http://www.southwest.com/

Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 1 Comments

Sunday, March 21, 2010

A potpourri of events to entice in the City of Las Vegas...

Every once in awhile I will receive a slew of press releases from the city announcing all different types of cultural events. Well actually it is all the time which is a great thing! It just demonstrates that there is a bounty of great cultural events for all to enjoy in our Radiant City. And to think there are still people out there claiming that Las Vegas is a cultural wasteland?

I tell the critics - Go out and enculturate yourself!

‘Paintbrush Gateways And Other Projects’ Exhibit Continues Through April
Monumental Sculptures Created by International Artist Dennis Oppenheim

The public is invited to attend “Paintbrush Gateways and Other Projects,” a sculptural exhibit of work by internationally renowned artist Dennis Oppenheim. This exhibit features four large-scale sculptural pieces created over the last several years; two sculptures reference earthwork and public art projects.

“Paintbrush Gateways and Other Projects” opened in January and continues through April 3, 2010. There is no charge for admission to the exhibit. This exhibit is presented and sponsored by the city of Las Vegas Arts Commission and the city of Las Vegas. The Reed Whipple Cultural Center and the exhibit are open Monday through Friday, 12:30 to 8:30 p.m., and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closed Sundays and holidays. Please call (702) 229-1012 for more information on the exhibit.

Oppenheim is the artist who designed the Paintbrush Gateway entrances to the Arts District. Installation of the 45-feet high, lighted paintbrushes on Charleston Boulevard at the corners of Fourth Street and Casino Center Boulevard is scheduled to begin completed in May.

“The Paintbrush Gateway projects a stroke, 2,000 feet long, going into darkness, thus echoing an artist's excursion into the unknown,” said Oppenheim, who currently lives and works in New York.

Oppenheim was born in 1938 in Electric City, Wash. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the School of Arts and Crafts, and a Master of Fine Arts from Stanford University. He has received fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts. Oppenheim has exhibited his works internationally in galleries and museums including the Tate Gallery, London; Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam; Whitney Museum of American Art and The Museum of Modern Art, New York; Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris; Galerie Pro Arte, Germany; and the Joseph Helman Gallery, New York.

For more information on the public art project, Paintbrush Gateways, call the city of Las Vegas Arts Commission at (702) 229-5256.

Rainbow Company Youth Theatre Holds Audition April 17
Roles In 'Jack And The Beanstalk’ For Ages 8 To Adult
 
Be part of the award-winning Rainbow Company Youth Theatre! An open audition for roles in “Jack and the Beanstalk” is scheduled on Saturday, April 17, at 1 p.m. at the Reed Whipple Cultural Center, 821 Las Vegas Blvd. North. Roles are available for ages 8 through adult. Participants are encouraged to dress comfortably. No prepared material or advance reservation is needed.

In this last production of the season, Jack’s daring climb to the clouds is just the beginning of the suspense and fun as our hero outwits the socially challenged giant. Presented in a highly theatrical, stylized fashion with witty dialogue and entertaining antics, this re-telling of a favorite folktale will be entertaining for all ages. The play will be performed at the Charleston Heights Arts Center June 4-13.

The nationally recognized Rainbow Company Youth Theatre holds auditions open to both adults and young people throughout the year. The award-winning staff offers classes in all aspects of theatre for ages 4 through high school at Reed Whipple Cultural Center and Charleston Heights Arts Center, and presents five productions annually that bring the magic of live theatre to family audiences. There also are spring break workshops and a summer conservatory. Rainbow Company is a program of the city of Las Vegas. For more information about the audition, classes, or tickets, call (702) 229-6553.

http://www.rainbowcompany.org/

City of Las Vegas Opens Hualapai Canyon Trail March 27
Residents Invited for Opening Festivities And Narrated Nature Walk Along New Trail

Las Vegas residents are invited to the grand opening of the Hualapai Canyon Trail, set for Saturday, March 27, at 10 a.m. City of Las Vegas Ward 2 Councilman Steve Wolfson and others involved in the project will speak briefly at the opening before UNLV Professor of Geology Steve Rowland leads a narrated nature walk through the new trail. Everyone is invited to gather at the trail-head, located on the east side of Hualapai Way, north of Alta Drive. Light refreshments will be provided while supplies last.

“This much-anticipated new trail offers area residents a pleasant place to enjoy outdoor exercise and nature, away from busy streets and noisy traffic,” Wolfson said. “Having trails and parks in our neighborhoods and urban areas gives everyone a chance to enjoy a healthy lifestyle that includes outdoor activities and time with natural beauty.”

The new trail extends east from Hualapai Way for approximately one-half mile adjacent to the Tournament Players Club Canyons golf course. The trail will accommodate pedestrians, bicyclists and other modes of non-motorized travel. Both sides of the 10-foot-wide trail are landscaped. Other amenities include rest areas, benches, trash receptacles, pet waste stations and trail lighting. Construction of the trail began in August 2009, and it was officially named in December, after suggestions were submitted by the public.

Funding for the $3 million Hualapai Canyon Trail is provided by the Bureau of Land Management through the sale of public lands as authorized by the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act. This act keeps money from Nevada federal land sales in the state for park and trail projects. Wiser Construction was the contractor for the project. The city of Las Vegas Planning and Development Department developed the trail concept and secured federal funds for construction, and the city’s Public Works Department managed the project.

 
Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Brent Sommerhauser @ Brett Wesley Gallery the First of April...

Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Saturday, March 20, 2010

A humbling distinction...

It was well over a month ago when one of Las Vegas' great authors told me that I had been nominated as one of City Life's Best Local Historians. It was at the end of a presentation on the Smith Center for the Performing Arts at the Historic 5th Street School that Geoff Schumacher Author of Sun, Sin and Suburbia http://sunsinsuburbia.com/ approached me and mentioned the nomination. I looked at him with a perplexed look upon my face. I wondered to myself why I would be nominated for such a distinction that would normally be reserved for authors and professors? So I ran home, got on the computer and looked up City Life http://www.lasvegascitylife.com/ online and after searching for a second I found my name in the company of other great lovers of History.
  • Bob Stoldal
  • Dr. Michael Green
  • Geoff Schumacher
  • Dennis McBride
Just being in the company of these great local historians, authors, professors and most importantly friends is one of the most humbling moments in my life and career. Though I wondered what I could have done to deserve such a nod. Was it my love of my home town? The fact that I have had the honor to touch some of the great historical collections in our city? Being the Curator of the Las Vegas News Bureau? This very blog? Reading what City Life wrote puts it into perspective.

"Best local historian: Brian "Paco" Alvarez
http://www.lasvegascitylife.com/articles/2010/03/18/news/local_news/iq_34796102.txt


Though I do feel a bit like President Obama in receiving the Nobel Prize I guess the important thing to ask is how can I take being voted Best Local Historian and do positive things with it. Obviously writing a book is at the top of the list and an idea that I have been working on for awhile. Ever since I left the Rhinestone Ritz I had been toying with the idea of writing a tell-all and have complied quite a list of notes. In addition I have quite an archives related to the fight we had with the university administration when it came to the fate of the the award winning Rock Avenue program on KUNV. Rock Avenue alone caused KUNV to win the 1997 Gavin Award for best College Radio Station only to be snuffed out by an indifferent administration and apathetic student body. Another thing that I should do with the distinction is to continue to educate the public about the cultural arts in Las Vegas. Goodness knows I have a keen understanding about the importance of building a stable cultural arts and educational infrastructure as a means for economic diversification. Anyway there are lots of things I can and will do its just a matter of priority and one that now takes center stage.

As I mentioned on my Facebook page I respectfully stand upon the shoulders of those who came before me. Especially my mentors Dr. Kevin Rafferty, one of Nevada's great Archaeologists who worked me hard in class and solidified my studies in Anthropology; Dr. Vicky Cassman who solidified my passion for museums and my career in the field and of course the late Dr. Gary Elliott, the toughest history professor I ever had and one of the best conversationalists. I remember the countless hours we spent on the campus of the community college talking shop whether it was Nevada History, about Dr. James McMillan or the history of the Westside. Gary was definitely one of the best.

In the end I am deeply grateful to City Life for the nomination and of course to those who elected me for this distinction but I want to state that I share this with every single person who loves History, Anthropology, Archaeology, Art, and Las Vegas of course. This award is for the tireless and selfless heroes that educate our posterity about the past, the present and the future...

Thank you..

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 0 Comments

Friday, March 19, 2010

Yet Another Friday Full of Fun...

Well Third Friday is back again packed with tons of activities to enrich. Though I will be juggling three events relatively at the same time I do plan on attending them all in earnest. How this will happen is beyond the understanding of physics but I am sure I can pull it off.

Speaking of Physics my evening will start off at the Atomic Testing Museum with UNLV Art Professor Pasha Rafat's Art in Public Places class creating yet another highly anticipated show. This show is called Cloud Nine and it is a site specific exhibition that will benefit the victims of the Haitian earthquake. In addition PLACE Gallery on Main is also having a Haiti Earthquake Relief Art Auction with featured artist Danny Roberts with show curated by Vezun and Gina Quaranto.

My old stopping grounds at the Contemporary Arts Collective will be featuring the spoken word with students from UNLV and special guests. Please take a look at the fliers for further details.

If you just happen to see me out and about do not hesitate to say hello!

For more information on PLACE Gallery please visit their Facebook Fan Page - PLACE Gallery Presents http://www.facebook.com/

For more information on the Atomic Testing Museum Please visit their site at http://www.atomictestingmuseum.org/

For more information on the Contemporary Arts Center Please visit their site at http://www.lasvegascac.org/

In addition if I you want to find out more about what is happening in Las Vegas please do not forget to visit my friends at Nevada Public Radio at http://www.knpr.org/




Nevada Public Radio
For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this link http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

posted by Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator and Chronicler of Culture at | 1 Comments