Inspired by the cultural significance of the Museum of Latin American Arts (molaa) $10 million expansion and renovation, Emmy award winning talk show host Cristina Saralegui and Grammy award winner Lila Downs have announced their support and plan to participate in the opening celebrations set for this month.
“I am thrilled that the Museum of Latin American Art is expanding and creating greater opportunities for people to experience the rich beauty and diverse topics of Latin artists,” Saralegui said. “Art is very emotional and helps us learn about each other and our unique histories.”
A Black-Tie Gala on Saturday will feature the first U.S. presentation of a sizzling live-art fashion show, El Otro Paraiso (The Other Paradise), by 37 distinguished visual artists from Chile. Saralegui will greet guests and introduce the evening’s entertainment.
In addition, as honorary curator, Saralegui, an avid collector and designer, will provide commentary on a selected artwork from the museum’s permanent collection, offering guests the opportunity to listen to her insights on art.
A Public Opening/Free Family Festival will take place Sunday and will feature art workshops, music and dance performances and entertainment for the entire family. Adding to the fun, guests can pose for a photo with Molita, molaa’s llama mascot.
On Sunday, June 17, Downs will headline an outdoor concert. The renowned artist will perform a diverse range of songs from traditional ranchera music to electrifying rock. Her heartfelt ballads will be accompanied by a live band.
Saturday, June 23, there will be a Latin Dance Party featuring a Venezuelan and a Cuban orchestra as well as a Latin DJ, dance performances and dance contests.
Mid-week events will include docent-led architectural and gallery tours, master art classes with Latin American artists, a book signing with the museum’s architect, Manuel Rosen, and a series of Art for Lunch programs.
In honor of the grand opening, molaa is also featuring two special exhibitions. La Presencia: Latin American Art in the United States, which will be on display from Sunday to Saturday, August 25, and A Bridge to the Americas: the molaa Permanent Collection, beginning Sunday. The second exhibit is ongoing.
For more information, visit www.molaa.org.
