Chicanismo y Latinismo is a group exhibition that explores how the Chicano movement has continued to evolve by moving beyond its West Coast origins and expand its sense of justice to include a multiplicity of Latin American identities. The show also explores how and why artists of various Latin American nationalities identify with or against the label of being Chicano. Artists exploring either Chicanismo or Latinismo today use a variety of media and social encounter tactics, including performance, costuming, painting, screenprinting, video, murals, and sculpture to clarify misconceptions of their contemporary movements while bridging their experience into both gallery and community spaces.

Historically speaking, being Chicano meant choosing to be a Mexican-American with a non-Anglo view of oneself and to acknowledge the presence of both historical narratives as present within one body. Today, “being Chicano” is about one’s ideology and approach to advancing cultural norms, including issues of justice in relation to gay and lesbian rights. The historical Chicano movement has blossomed into a larger conversation that gives voice to an entire strata of the American population whose identities stem from their dual status as immigrants, or any other marginalized group, and Americans.

We celebrate the opening of Chicanismo y Latinismo, Creative Alliance’s big Latino contemporary art show with the hottest Latino band in the mid-Atlantic (all 14 pieces!) Pablo Antonio y La Firma powers out high-energy, authentic Latino music rolling from salsa, to bachata to merengue with groovy onstage dance moves, roaring horn section, staccato rhythms and passionate vocals. Dance lesson and demos by the accomplished immigrants of Southeast Baltimore, led by Dantiza Leon. DJ Sam Rodriguez, Latino Fest Producer, spins! $12, $10 mbrs. $2 Presidentés all night!

6pm Exhibition Opening Reception (FREE!)
8pm Dance Lesson
9pm Dance Party!