CONTENTS/ CONTENIDO
WEST MICHIGAN
Farándula
WEST MICHIGAN LIFESTYLE / ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE
PUBLISHER Adrian Sotelo adrian@farandulami.com
MEET THE TEAM
10 The Art & Culture of Lucha Libre
Samantha
Nanny
Kahlen
Brianna
Matthew
Karla
(Lifestyle & Entertainment)
25
Art Galleries
(Special Events)
in West Michigan
22 Get Plugged In follow us
(Fitness)
(Special interviews & Lifestyle)
Calendar of Events
(Dining & Drinking)
WWW.FARANDULAMI.COM
(Lifestyle)
Jodi Hillman Kristin Schmitt Angel Woodard Jyotsna Ramani Jennifer Chichester Louise Harris
P.O BOX 134 Byron Center, MI 49315 | Office (616) 516-7891 West Michigan Farándula is published 12 times a year by Social Grand Rapids LLC. Articles and advertisements in West Michigan Farándula do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the magazine. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by West Michigan Farándula does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information being advertised. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudalent or misleading. West Michigan Farándula makes every effort to ensure accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. © 2016 West Michigan Farándula Grand Rapids. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any way without written permission of the publisher.
04 FARANDULAMI.COM | AUGUST 2017
NEWS/ NOTICIAS
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PEDRO CAPÓ’S New Album “EN LETRA DE OTRO “ Debuts #1 In Sales
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JULIETA VENEGAS
To Receive Master of Latin Music Award From Berklee College of Music
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edro Capó se coloca en el tope de la lista de discos más vendidos en el mercado latino de Estados Unidos y Puerto Rico, con su producción “En Letra de Otro”, según la prestigiosa revista de música Billboard.
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edro Capó reaches No. 1 in on the Billboard “ Latin Pop Albums” chart with his latest release “En Letra de Otro”, signifying that it’s the top-selling album in its genre in the United States and Puerto Rico.
After a busy week filled with promotional activities, Pedro Capó celebrated the strong sales achieved by this record in the United States, in his native Puerto Rico and in Mexico, where first single “Azúcar Amargo” (Bitter Sugar) has debuted on the Top 40 radio chart. “There’s no better success than one that can be celebrated at home. Thank you Puerto Rico for supporting one of your sons. There’s nothing like feeling the affection from my people and from Latinos in the United States. Today is a good day,” he said. Meanwhile, Capó has been invited to serve as a presenter at the Premios Tu Mundo (Your World Awards) which will be broadcast live by Telemundo tonight from the American Airlines Arena in Miami. Subsequently, he will travel to Mexico for a monthlong promotional tour that includes stops in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Querétaro, Monterrey and other cities. He will then return to Puerto Rico to prepare for his major concert at San Juan’s José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum and the premiere of his movie Sol de Medianoche (Midnight Sun), in which he plays the starring role.
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Luego de una semana cargada de compromisos promocionales, el intérprete de “Azúcar Amargo” celebra la gran acogida del disco, no tan solo por el éxito en su territorio natural que es Puerto Rico y Estados Unidos, sino en México donde ya se encuentra entre los primeros 40 en la lista de éxitos radiales. “No hay éxito más bonito que el que se celebra en casa. Gracias Puerto Rico por apoyar a uno de tus hijos. Nada como contar con el cariño de mi gente y de los latinos en Estados Unidos. Hoy es un buen día.” expresó el artista. Por otro lado, Capó ha sido invitado por la cadena Telemundo para ser presentador de una categoría en los Premios Tu Mundo que serán transmitidos hoy desde el American Airlines Arena en la ciudad de Miami. Luego partirá a México donde permanecerá por un mes de gira de promoción por el DF, Guadalajara, Quéretaro y Monterrey entre otras ciudades. Posteriormente, regresará a Puerto Rico a prepararse para su presentación en el Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot y el lanzamiento de su nueva película Sol de Medianoche.
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eptember 7th will be a special date for Julieta Venegas. During her performance at Berklee Performance Center of Boston, she will receive the Master of Latin Music Award, a special honor that Berklee gives since 2014 to the most influential Latin artist, which paves the way for new generations.
The Master of Latin Music Award honors musicians who exemplify the practices and values of Berklee Latino and Berklee Latin Music Studies, which explores Latin, Brazilian, Caribbean, Afro-Cuban, and other styles to develop an understanding of both the performance aspects of Latin music and the history and cultures from which it was born and continues to thrive. Other recipients include Magos Herrera, Armando Manzanero, Fito Páez, Rubén Rada, Totó la Momposina, Susana Baca and Carlos Vives. Julieta Venegas was born in Mexico and is currently one of the most famous artists and composers in Latin America, Spain, and US Latin market. After studying eight years of classical piano, Julieta began to play music as a member of the alternative rock group Tijuana No! When she turned 20, she moved to Mexico City. Animated by her fellow musicians, she recorded her first two albums with the prestigious Argentinean producer Gustavo Santaolalla (Café Tacuba, Juanes, Jorge Drexler). Then she started to be required for a lot of collaborations; and composed the main song for the film Amores Perros, directed by the Oscar-winner Alejandro Gonzalez Iñarritu. With her albums “Sí “ (2003) and “Limón y Sal “ (2006), Julieta Venegas managed to run as one of the greatest Latin American artists. She sold 8 million albums and achieved a GRAMMY® Award, 5 Latin GRAMMY®s and 8 MTV awards. Julieta Venegas became a unique artist by fusing Mexican popular music such as the ranchera, with pop, and often with her accordion as the main thread.
NEWS/ NOTICIAS
Cedar Springs Brewing Company Wins Three Titles at London World Beer Awards
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he World Beer Awards announced August 10th that Cedar Springs Brewing Company took three “Best in the U.S.” titles in the international competition.
The awards were for their Küsterer Original Weissbier, named “Best Bavarian Hefeweiss” in the U.S., Küsterer Salzburger Märzen, named “Best Seasonal German Pale” in the U.S. and Küsterer Weizenbock, named “Best Strong Wheat Beer” in the U.S. The contest is the third international competition the two-year-old brewery has entered and placed in. “It is our goal to create a world-class destination here in Cedar Springs, Michigan,” said the brewery’s Director of Happiness David Ringler. “We are thrilled to once again have been recognized for the quality of our Bavarian and German style beers by an international judging organization.” The World Beer Awards are a global competition selecting the “very best in all internationally recognized styles.” Judges from around the world tasted 1900 entries from 36 countries. “Very few Americans have had the chance to truly experience some of these styles if they haven’t traveled to Europe,” Ringler said. “That’s why it’s our goal to create true-to-style Bavarian brews here in the U.S.” The recent awards are heartening for Cedar Springs, as evidence of their success. “We want to do justice to these styles,” Ringler said. “We’ve been fortunate to beat some of the breweries that are viewed as the gold standards. It’s amazing to be included in that conversation.” FARANDULAMI.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017
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NEWS/ NOTICIAS
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PRNews
Perrin Brewing Celebrates their Number 5
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errin Brewing celebrates five years of crafting quality beer in Michigan. On September 9th at Perrin Brewing of Comstock Park the backyard will be bursting with live music entertainment, food trucks, specialty beers, vendors and the annual cornhole tournament! The party kicks off for Pub Club members and Cornhole Tournament participants at 3 pm and the general public at 4 pm until 11 pm. Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 at the gate, open to ages 21 years of age and older.
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errin Brewing celebra cinco años de elaboración de cerveza de calidad en Michigan. El 9 de septiembre en Perrin Brewing de Comstock Park se llevará acabo esta gran celebración, llena de mucho entretenimiento con música en vivo, camiones de comida, cervezas especializadas, vendedores y un torneo anual cornhole! La fiesta comienza para los miembros del Club y los participantes del Torneo Cornhole se llevará acabo las 3 pm y el público en general tendrá accceso a las 4 pm hasta las 11 pm. Los boletos estarán disponibles en preventa en $7 y $ 10 en la puerta. Este será disponible para mayores de 21 años.
Donut Roll Cycling September 23 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Join friends, family and bicycling enthusiasts from the surrounding area on Saturday, September 23rd for the inaugural Donut Roll. This fun, family-friendly experience will begin and end in the parking lot of Dark Horse, 511 S. Kalamazoo Ave., Marshall, and will follow a 12-mile route through town and the outskirts of Marshall. You may register for the Donut Roll at www.active.com. The $25 pre-registration includes a delicious Dark Horse Commons donut, a limited-edition t-shirt, and all-day beer specials following the ride. Participants arriving the day of the event may pay $10 for a donut and beer specials. Check-in and t-shirt pickup will be from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.; the ride begins at 10 a.m.
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FARANDULAMI.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017
Lemon Creek Winery Presents 21st Annual Harvest Festival
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english emon Creek Winery presents their 21st Annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 9th from noon to 6pm.
This is an annual event celebrating the fruits of the year’s labor and the beginnings of autumn with a day of live music and dancing, hayrides, farmer’s market, and award winning wine. The band High Life will be performing classic rock and pop music from noon to 3pm. The Whistle Pigs will then take the stage at 3:30pm until 6pm. The Whistle Pigs are a close-knit “family” of musicians who perform rock, jazz and rhythm, and blues. Farmer’s market will feature arts and craft vendors. Hayrides are free and available all day long. The Outdoor Kitchen’s “Chuck Wagon” will be on site with favorites from the grill along with Big Wheels BBQ with the areas’ best pulled pork and BBQ ribs. And Zeno’s Italian Ice will also be available for purchase.
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emon Creek Winery presenta su Festival Anual de la Cosecha número 21 el Sábado, 9 de Septiembre a partir del mediodía hasta las 6pm.
Este es un evento anual que celebra los frutos del trabajo del año y los inicios del otoño con un día lleno de música en vivo, baile, paseos a caballo, mercado de agricultores y vino. La banda High Life estará interpretando música de rock clásica y música pop desde mediodía hasta las 3 pm. El Whistle Pigs tomará el escenario a las 3:30 pm hasta las 6 pm. The Whistle Pigs son una "familia" muy unida de músicos que interpretan rock, jazz, ritmo y blues. El Mercado de agricultores contará con arte y vendedores de artesanías. Además de Hayrides gratuitos disponibles todo el día.
Skeletons Are Coming to Marshall for Skeleton Fest!
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he rib-tickling excitement begins September 30th with two amazing events; the Marshall Skeleton Fest Kick-Off Party and the Marshall Pub & Grub Crawl. First, grab the kids and head downtown to the family-friendly Marshall Skeleton Fest Kick-Off Party from 2pm to 5pm. You will be dancing in the street to the live music of The EcoLimes as they play such favorites as Monster Mash, Thriller and Bad to the Bone. The fun continues with balloon animals and creations made by “Scoop the Balloonatic” and face-painting. Treat yourself to mouth-watering treats from food vendors including Old MacDonald Farm, all located on N. Grand Street and the parking lot of Bud’s Automotive Repair at 302 W. Michigan Ave.
a emoción mas cosquilleante comienza el 30 de septiembre con dos acontecimientos asombrosos; el Marshall Skeleton Fest Kick-Off y Marshall Pub & Grub Crawl. Primero tome a sus niños y dirijase al centro familiar de Marshall para disfrutar del asombroso Skeleton Fest de 2 pm a 5 pm. Este evento te pondra a bailar en la calle con muy buena música en vivo con The EcoLimes, los cuales tocan clásicos como Monster Mash, Thriller y Bad to the Bone. La diversión continúa con los animales y creaciones hechas por “Scoop the Balloonatic” y pinta caritas. Disfrute de deliciosa comida de vendedores locales incluyendo la Antigua MacDonald Farm, todos ubicados en N. Grand Street y el estacionamiento de Bud’s Automotive Repair en 302 W. Michigan Ave.
Stroll through downtown and take selfies with the 28 5-foot tall “humorous” skeletons; have your pulse checked by the skeleton doctor, hang out with a coffee drinking skeleton, or play a game of Twister with a skeleton. Don’t forget to share the fun using hashtag #MarshallSkeletonFest!
Pasee por el centro de la ciudad y tome selfies con los 28 esqueletos “humorísticos” de 5 pies de alto; haga que su pulso sea controlado por el doctor esqueleto, diviertase un poco con el esqueleto que bebe café, o también juega Twister con un esqueleto muy divertido. ¡No olvide compartir la diversión usando hashtag #MarshallSkeletonFest!
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FARANDULAMI.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017
09
Interviews
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ucha Libre dates back to 1863 and is characterized by luchadores, the masks they wear, and the dramatization of wrestling. It is a combination of sport, art, and acting. Luchadores never reveal their identity in or out of the ring, which is part of the culture of Lucha Libre. The mask hides their identity and is rich in Mexican history. The lucha mask can be traced back to the Aztec and Mayan warriors. The warriors would compete for superiority and paint their faces as they fought against each other.
The current Lucha Libre mask design can be traced back to 1933 when a wrestler named El Ciclรณn McKey had Don Antonio Martinez to create what is now the Lucha Libre mask. The mask was a success and could not be taken off during the fight. The mask became a mark of the luchadores. The Golden Age of Mexican wrestling was in the 50s and 60s when El Santo came to be as well as the television. El Santo is still one of the most legendary wrestlers and was known by his silver mask. El Santo wore his mask after retirement and did briefly show his face, but he was buried in his famous silver mask. Lucha Libre continued to grow and become more popular during and after the death of El Santo. As Lucha Libre grew, luchadora battles and mini-All Star specials appeared as spinoffs. Two artists, Hugo Claudin and Elton Monroy, bring the history of Lucha Libre and Mexican culture to Grand Rapids.
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Mexicains Sans Frontieres We sat down with Hugo Claudin who runs an alternative art venue called Mexicains Sans Frontieres downtown GR. FarandulaMag: Why luchadores? Hugo: I remember at one point trying to relate my heritage, calareas and loteria had already been done. One day I had an iguana on my chest while I was reading and noticed similarities in the patterns of the scales on its face that resembled luchador masks. My mom was always making me costumes and a kid and I loved El Santo and Blue Demon movies. I was involved in a relationship with a lady that got very strong and tossed me around in bed. The idea of being tossed around was a turn on and I asked her to pose with the mask and I started Women on The Verge of Kicking Your Ass. FarandulaMag:What is your creative process like? Hugo: My creative process involves shooting photographs of ladies in wrestling masks around my loft. I tell each one the same story and they play it out, they each look a bit different because they imagine a strong woman in different ways. During the day, Claudin is a community organizer and at night he is an artist and musician. He has curated many shows at his venue and spontaneously creates art as he feels it. His Women
Interviews on The Verge of Kicking Your Ass series is meant to empower women. The art demonstrates a push-pull relationship and aims to show women how to demand respect. Claudin takes his message from his artwork to the community as well. He talks to women about violent situations they may encounter and how they should react. He informs these women of shelters that are available and Silent Observer. His goal is to help women realize how powerful they are.
“CORPUS”
Elton Monroy Durán is an artist who brings Mexican culture to his work. He aims to convey the importance of organ donation through his work “CORPUS.” He traveled to Detroit to promote his work in the Detroit River Days and Wyandotte Street Art Fair, which is where he won Best in Show. While promoting his art, he hands out donor registration cards and encourages people to join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry. Durán is also closely involved with the Michigan EyeBank, which aims to restore sight through corneal transplants. Durán talks about the connection between art and sight saying “The gift of sight is something to celebrate. Without it, we would not be able to appreciate art and its colors.” If you want to see some of Durán’s artwork, head over to Lindo Mexican Restaurant. He painted El Santo and the Blue Demon, two famous luchadores, inside the restaurant.
Lucha Libre Art in West Michigan
Hugo Claudin and Elton Monroy are bringing Mexican history and culture to West Michiganthrough art. Both have created pieces of art featuring luchadores, but in different fashions. They have also gone beyond Lucha Libre and created pieces that bring Mexican culture to the city. These are two artists that definitely should be checked out.
FARANDULAMI.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017
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Interviews
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La Grande Vitesse
a Grande Vitesse also popularly referred to as The Calder. This piece of public art was installed in Grand Rapids in 1969 and since then has become the city’s official logo. This huge red color piece of art is located on a large concrete plaza that surrounds the Kent County Building and City Hall and weighs 42 tons. Made from steel this 43 feet tall, 54 feet long and 30 feet wide steel structure became the first public art work funded by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Today, this piece of artwork has become a mascot for various municipal programs and projects and also appears on city government letterhead. Historically, many urban centers in the 1960s were on the verge of decline. There was an immediate need for local city governments to attract more people to the downtown areas and transform them into attractive destinations. As a part of the urban renewal initiative, the local government along with the newly established NEA decided to commission American artist Alexander Calder to create a public artwork that would bring the people to Grand Rapids. Calder decided to name the artwork ‘La Grande Vitesse’ which in French means Grand Rapids or The Great Swiftness.
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The total cost of th e project was $128,000 including shipping and fabrication, commissioning and installation of the sculpture. After some debate, Calder was commissioned for the project based on his credentials and vision. Born in Pennsylvania, Alexander Calder was among the noted sculptors in the United States and known for his popular moving sculpture Mobile. Since the 1950s, Calder has been working and is known for various monumental sculptures most notably 125 for the JFK Airport and Spirale for UNESCO. Calder is also known for its Bent Propeller sculpture installed in 1971 at the entrance of the World Trade Center’s North Tower. Calder is also known for creating three-dimensional drawings in space using his bending, sculpting and twisting wire methods. While many of his mobile sculptures are too delicate for the strong winds outside he later decided to make monumental outdoor steel structures that are installed across various cities around the globe.
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13
Interviews
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Kate Lewis A
Ceramic Artist, Cook Arts Center Pottery Studio Manager & Instructor ceramics and pottery pro, creative Kate Lewis has spent years honing her craft. From Michigan State University, to Massachusetts, to Harvard, to Denmark and then back, she is dedicated to improving her skill. Lewis brings form and appeal to clay in a way unmatched. Her methods have been recognized by the Urban Institute for Contemporary Art, and local Grand Rapids business owners. Her hand made dishes and bowls are not only admired, but also put into use. One can see her cups and dishes throughout the community. She often compares art to the soothing nature of waves. Much like how waves ripple within a pond, Lewis continues to bring her craft and education to other interested artists. She teaches youth classes while working to impact the community around her. From hand to clay and clay to kiln, hear about what Kate Lewis says about the intrigues of ceramic and pottery art.
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FM: What role, in your opinion, does the artist have in society? KL: The artist’s role is to express their truth creatively. If they take the opportunity to share their creative perspective they can inspire others and be a part of meaningful cultural experiences that build community. They can inspire society as a whole to approach issues with creative solutions.
FM: As an artist, where comes your art inspiration from? KL: When I am in the act of creating, my inspiration comes from my connection to the material. I could work with ceramics my whole life and still not know everything there is to know about firing clay and glazes. The concepts behind the ceramic pieces I create come from my personal experience as a spiritual being in the material world. FM: Are you currently working on a project? KL: I just began making several hundred dishes for Sonder Provisions, a new restaurant opening up at Terra Square in Hudsonville. FM: Where is your favorite place to see art? Why? KL: It keeps me constantly inspired to notice that art is everywhere. I am especially excited by unexpected encounters with art and exploring the museums, galleries and underground art spaces in different cities. FM: What is the most indispensable item in your studio? KL: I would say clay, my medium, but it would actually be more accurate to say water. It is what makes the clay workable. You could not work with clay if there wasn’t water in it. I have worked in a couple studio situations without running water and it was rough. It really makes you appreciate the element [water] that much more. FM: Where are you finding ideas for your work? KL: I work together with clients and their ideas to design custom ceramic objects. When creating work with no intended purpose I tend to rely on intuition to form the clay. The content is a reflection of my inner world. Sometimes I make quiet, contemplative pieces. Other times I express an idea directly by carving words on the surface. I have been calling this body of work that I started over 2 years ago ‘words on clay.’ It ranges from quoting local hip-hop artists whose lyrics inspire me, to personal thoughts on dating and relationships, to quotes from the I Ching--a Taoist spiritual book I refer to daily to come to terms with our current political and social climate. The last words I carved were ‘We can’t tolerate hate. What have you done to fight racism today?” FM: What work of art do you wish you owned? KL: I wish I owned a piece of pottery by M.C. Richards, one of my heroes of clay. I feel that if I had a piece that she made I would have something physical to connect me to her curious, contemplative, and playful process that inspires me so much. FM: Who’s your favorite living artist? KL: Ai Wei Wei. FM: Do you have any hobbies in addition to your work? KL: I enjoy practicing yoga, vegetarian cooking, going to the beach, going on nature walks and attending hip-hop, electronic, jazz & local music shows. Thanks for taking the time to photograph me in my studio.
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FM: ¿Qué papel, en tu opinión, tiene el artista en la sociedad? KL: El papel del artista es expresar su verdad de manera creativa. Si aprovechan la oportunidad para compartir su perspectiva creativa pueden inspirar a otros y ser parte de experiencias culturales significativas que construyen la comunidad. Pueden inspirar a la sociedad en su conjunto para abordar los problemas con soluciones creativas. FM: Como artista, ¿de dónde viene tu inspiración artística? KL: Cuando estoy en el acto de crear una pieza, mi inspiración viene de mi conexión con el material. Podría trabajar con cerámica toda mi vida y aún no sé todo lo que hay que saber sobre la arcilla y los esmaltes. Los conceptos detrás de las piezas de cerámica que creo vienen de mi experiencia personal como un ser espiritual en el mundo material. FM: ¿Actualmente estás trabajando en algún proyecto? KL: Comencé hacer cientos de platos para Sonder Provisions, un nuevo restaurante que abrirá en Terra Square en Hudsonville. FM: ¿Cuál es tu lugar favorito para ver el arte? ¿Por qué? KL: Me mantengo constantemente inspirada en el arte que me rodea. Estoy especialmente emocionada por los encuentros inesperados con el arte y la exploración de los museos, galerías y espacios de arte subterráneos en diferentes ciudades. FM: ¿Cuál es el elemento más indispensable en su estudio? KL: Yo diría que la arcilla, mi medio, pero en realidad para ser mas exacta diria que el agua. Es lo que hace que la arcilla sea viable. No podrías trabajar con arcilla si no había agua en ella. He trabajado en un par de proyectos en un estudio que no tenía agua y fue muy duro. Realmente te hace apreciar el elemento [agua] mucho más. FM: ¿Dónde encuentras ideas para tu trabajo? KL: Trabajo junto a mis clientes y sus ideas para diseñar objetos cerámicos personalizados. Al crear un trabajo sin propósito, tiendo a confiar en la intuición para formar la arcilla. El contenido es un reflejo de mi mundo interior. A veces hago piezas contemplativas. Otras veces expreso una idea directamente tallando palabras en la superficie. He estado llamando a este estilo de trabajo que empecé hace más de 2 años ‘palabras sobre arcilla’, que va desde citar a artistas locales de hip-hop cuyas letras me inspiran, a pensamientos personales sobre citas y relaciones, a citas del I Ching- -un libro espiritual taoísta al que me refiero diariamente para llegar a un acuerdo con nuestro actual clima político y social. Las últimas palabras que escribí fueron: “No podemos tolerar el odio. ¿Qué has hecho para combatir el racismo hoy? “ FM: ¿Qué obra de arte te gustaría poseer? KL: Ojalá tuviera un pedazo de cerámica de M.C. Richards, uno de mis héroes de arcilla. Siento que si tuviera un pedazo que ella hizo tendría algo físico para conectarme con su proceso curioso, contemplativo y lúdico que me inspira tanto. FM: ¿Quién es tu artista vivo favorito? KL: Ai Wei Wei. FM: ¿Tienes hobbies además de tu trabajo? KL: Me gusta practicar yoga, cocinar vegetariano, ir a la playa, ir de paseo por la naturaleza. FARANDULAMI.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 15
Interviews
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Reyna Garcia A
rt reflects beauty in the world. Artists take that beauty and render it into something unique. Artist Reyna Garcia’s does just that. Her first hand experiences and brushes with culture are transformed into expressions with which everyone can interact. From her childhood in Netzahualcoyotl, Mexico to her life in New York City, Garcia has followed her passion. Her passions for her culture and Latino community are brought into vibrant works of art. Garcia started painting at the young age of 15. Since then, she has grown as a professional artist and also as a inspiration in her community. While in New York, where most of her paintings took shape, she encouraged young children in area art programs – helping them express their identity and their own brushes with beauty. Now, a Grand Rapids local, her colorful inspirational paintings have appeared in ArtPrize and other local venues. Committed to women, culture, and identity, she continues to mix watercolors, acrylics, and pastels into vibrant pieces. Read on for an in-depth interview with the community advocate turned masterful painter, Reyna Garcia.
FM: What role does the artist have in society? RG: Artists historically have played an important role in society for the reason that they have been part of the social changes and have documented history through each area or branch in which they stand out. A case in point is the Magic Realism by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo and José Clemente Orozco who portrayed the socio-political crisis of Mexico after the revolution in their murals and helped to form an image or national identity. FM: As an artist, where comes your inspiration from? RG: I believe that every time I create a work it is inspired by my reality in what is happening day by day. It [my inspiration] is to give shape and color to social issues of interest to raise awareness in the viewer [for example] the issues of importance of women, the current situation of the immigrants, the constant struggle in Latin America and at a global level Indians’ situation as well as issues that capture my interest of a people’s social background. FM: Are you currently working on a project? RG: I am currently working on Niños del sol, a project that on August 25 closed its first session with great success. Talking about our children and young people is talking about a seed that we must cultivate. They [our children] are our legacy. This is the central objective of the Children of the Sun project - art workshops for children and young people. Our focus is on working on developing our children’s skills, reinforcing their identity, acknowledging their roots, helping hem accept themselves and helping them feel included in culturally diverse groups. It is of the utmost importance to create a space of trust for our children where they can have ambitions of improvement, as this society will need a new generation of leaders. I am also preparing for Artprize 9 with “MY SOUL” An exhibition to talk about my history and the reunion of my past and present. In this book I dedicate my work to the millions of children who were
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affected by the polio virus. It is dedicated to those who did not manage to overcome the disease, those who survived, and children who are still suffering from any type of disability. FM: Where is your favorite place to see art? Why? RG: I have no favorite place - every place has something interesting. I love visiting Chicago and admiring its murals. The Mexican Museum during the celebration of the Day of the Dead and its exhibits always bring me a reunion with my culture. FM: What is the most indispensable item in your studio? RG: I consider all the tools indispensable since they all have a connection and interrelation in achieving the objective of each work. FM: Where are you finding ideas for your work? RG: As an artist, I do not necessarily find ideas. My inspiration is the need to capture the essence of my reality. It is to document those moments that are necessary, to translate them into canvases and to transform each experience into a message that the viewer can enjoy and find emotionally moving. FM: What work of art do you wish you owned? RG: I would like to have an art piece by Salvador DalĂ. He is one of the great surreal artists that influenced and inspired me at the beginning of my career. FM: Who is your favorite living artist? RG: Ulises Martinez Muralista of JuĂĄrez of Oaxaca Mexico. He is an artist who expresses in his murals a colorful and majestic social message worthy of my admiration. FM: Do you have any other hobbies in addition to your work? RG: My hobby is supporting Hearthside Ministries in the Ceramics Workshop. This September I will start volunteering in the art workshop where I will interact with people from the community. People who have had an experience of not having a home inspire me to give them hope through my art.
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Health & Fitness
family features
3 Ways Pups Can Improve Seniors’ Health
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urry friends can play a significant role in pet owners’ lives. The old saying goes, “dogs are man’s best friend,” and research shows they may be more than that. In fact, they just might be the key to keeping seniors active.
According to a study conducted by the University of Lincoln and Glasgow Caledonian University in collaboration with Mars Petcare Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, dog owners 65 and older were found to walk over 20 minutes more a day than seniors who did not have canine companions at home. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Healthy Living Habits that Work
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hen it comes to advice about healthy living, there are opinions nearly every place you turn. Unfortunately, a great deal of that information is based on fad diets and trendy workouts that may deliver quick results but don’t promote a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. The medical community generally agrees that slow and steady is the way to win the race toward healthy living. Adopting a broad set of healthier habits can deliver results over time and foster a new way of living that promotes your overall health and wellbeing. Aim for balance. A diet that combines healthy levels of protein and carbohydrates from all the food groups is the surest way to deliver your body the vitamins and nutrients you need for optimal health. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans call for an eating plan that is centered on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and reduced-fat dairy foods, rounded out by lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts for protein. When planning your meals, be sure to limit saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium and added sugar.
Know when to say when. Building a healthy lifestyle is about more than eating the right foods. It also means keeping your calorie count in check. That means keeping the amount you eat and the portion size in mind. Work with your doctor or a nutritionist to determine your body’s true caloric needs, which can vary depending on numerous factors such as your age, activity level and overall health. Then get smart about the portion sizes that will help you
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family features
stay within those parameters. Initially, you may want to weigh out portions but soon you’ll be able to recognize and adjust your portions on sight.
The study documented three key conclusions: 1. Dog owners walked further and for longer than non-dog owners. 2. Dog owners were more likely to reach recommended activity levels. 3. Dog owners had fewer periods of sitting down. “Older adult dog owners are more active than those without dogs and are also more likely to meet government recommendations for daily physical activity,” said Nancy Gee, human animal interaction researcher at Waltham. “We are learning more every day about the important roles pets play in our lives, so it’s no surprise that pets are now in more than 84 million households. It’s great to recognize how pets can help improve seniors’ lives.”
Set your body in motion. Increasing your activity level not only helps burn calories and boosts your metabolism, it also helps tone your muscles and improve overall body condition by promoting healthy blood flow. The exact amount of exercise you need will vary depending on your goals, age and physical ability. You may need to work up to the optimal level, which according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week for most adults.
Walking with your pup can help both the pet and owner get in shape. Pets can keep older adults active and even help them meet the recommended public health guidelines for weekly physical activity. According to the study, on average, dog owners more often participated in 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity and achieved 2,760 additional steps.
Replace what you lose. A strong workout may help you shed calories, but it also can deplete your body of essential fluids. Staying hydrated is crucial to keep your body functioning properly, from regulating your body temperature to providing the lubrication your joints and muscles need to keep you in motion. Rehydrating during and after exercise is important for getting the most out of your workout. For example, try incorporating an electrolyte beverage, such as Propel Electrolyte Water, which helps replace what is lost in sweat and supports hydration by stimulating thirst and promoting fluid retention. The 10 flavors contain no calories and provide B vitamins to support metabolism as part of a daily diet and antioxidant vitamins C and E. Learn more at PropelWater.com.
Not only do pets serve as companions in their own right, studies have shown that dog owners can get to know their neighbors through their pets. Pets can even help facilitate the initial meeting and conversation, which may come as no surprise for many dog owners who have chatted with others while walking their dogs. For older adults who live alone or in a group facility, having a pet is also a great way to build relationships with others.
However, the benefits of pet ownership go beyond physical activity. It’s no secret that pets provide companionship. From reducing rates of stress, depression and feelings of social isolation, pets can play a significant role in improving people’s lives, which ultimately can make pet owners happier and healthier.
As senior citizens are celebrated on upcoming days that acknowledge older adults, it turns out living with a pet can be a healthy choice for seniors in more ways than one. For more information on the benefits of pet ownership, visit bettercitiesforpets.com.
Food & drinks Smart Meals for Busy Families
Ease your way into a busy new school year with easy dishes you can prepare and serve in minutes. Time-saving and delicious dinners allow you to enjoy valuable family meals without sacrificing precious time in the kitchen.
Grilled Cheese and Pepperoni Sandwiches Prep time: 5 minutes Total time: 15 minutes 2 8 8 32 1
Servings: 4
tablespoons butter or margarine slices white or whole-grain bread slices cheddar or American cheese slices Armour Original or Turkey Pepperoni cup roasted red pepper strips or 4 thin tomato slices (optional)
Spread butter over one side of each piece of bread. Put four slices of bread on sheet of waxed paper, butteredside down. Top each slice of bread with one cheese slice, eight slices pepperoni, 1/4 cup peppers or sliced tomato, if desired, and additional cheese slice. Top sandwiches with remaining bread, buttered-side up. Heat large, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add two sandwiches; cook 4-5 minutes per side, or until cheese is melted and sandwiches are golden brown. Repeat with remaining sandwiches. Alternate preparation tip: Cook sandwiches in two batches in heated panini maker or well-oiled waffle iron 3-4 minutes. Find more easy recipes for family meals this fall at ArmourMeats.com.
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Spotlight
28th St Metro Cruise
Team GRAG
Winners of the Pinup contest
Team Family Fitness
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The 13th annual Metro Cruise took place on 28th Street at Roger’s Plaza in Wyoming on Friday 25 and Saturday 26. Visitors had the opportunity to check out traditional hot rods, custom rides, classic and muscle cars. The Metro Cruise also served up food and lots of entertainment. On Saturday morning’s opening ceremonies, the GM Foundation presented $25,000 in grants to support five area organizations, follow by a pinu up contest, music by Out of Favor Boys, Stolen Horses and JetBeats.
The judges
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GRandJazz Fest
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The 6 th annual GRandJazzFest presented by DTE Energy Foundation spanned the weekend and drew strong crowds for Saturday and Sunday’s performances. Festival organizers said the event drew approximately more than 11,000 people over the two days. GRandJazzFest 2017 brought 11 diverse jazz performance acts to the Rosa Parks Circle stage at West Michigan’s only free, weekend-long jazz festival.
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There is No Expression without an Impression – Art Galleries of WEST Michigan
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illiam James American Philosopher, once said that there is no impression without an expression. Art is an expression that leaves us with new impressions, insights, and understanding. Check out these Art venues of West Michigan for your own insightful adventures. Read on for in-depth descriptions of each venue, highlights, and more information about their collections. The West Michigan art community is a vibrant thriving group of enthusiasts who love to share the history, culture, and life of our region. Public museums and art schools offer public viewing as well as family oriented programs to cultivate passion for the arts.
market with ceramics, jewelry and more. Admission is $5 for adults and free for kids under 12.
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W Webster Ave, Muskegon, MI 49440
Saugatuck Center for the Arts 400 Culver St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
The Muskegon Museum of Art holds historic value in the West Michigan Art community. They host seasonal exhibitions like “Pictures of The Best Kind” displaying works acquired over 100 years and “The festival of trees” a holiday event with tree displays made by individuals in the community, gift shopping, and more. Admission for adults is $10 and free for kids under 16.
If you enjoy art in action, the Saugatuck Center for The Arts is for you. Primarily functioning as a nonprofit organization, the Center exist as the hub of community programs, as well as an art gallery. The Center has hosted over 15 years of performing arts theatre, as well as six years of the Growing Young Artists Program for migrant workers’ children. The Center has free admission and includes current highlights such as: Kalamazoo Institute of Arts “Stories of Us” – Urban artists who use murals, objects, and more to tell the stories of their communities 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 The Green Farmers Market – a farmers and artisan going on Both an as a modern art school and public museum, the Kalamazoo through October Institute of Arts (KIA) definitely leaves an impression. Members can “Clarity after Clouds” Murals – by Nick Nortier whose previous work has been showcased with the Mitten Brewing Company and Grand sign up for classes, explore different exhibitions, or enjoy monthly events like Teen Night. A new work is highlighted every season. Rapids Symphony. Once a year, the institute also opens itself up as a vibrant artisan
Lowell Arts 223 W Main St, Lowell, MI 49331 Beginning in 1977 as The Lowell Area Arts Council, Lowell Arts has grown from an initiative into a public art program. The gallery hosts local contemporary pieces while the program includes events, classes, summer concerts and more. Lowell Arts is a burgeoning art community within itself that supports new artists while promoting fine arts within the community.