Carlotta’s Passion Fine Art is pleased to host a panel discussion on the life and works of Carlos Almaraz.

Carlos Almaraz (1941 - 89), was a member of Los Four, the internationally famous Chicano art collective.  In later years he worked independently, both on public projects and on profoundly introspective pieces he created in his studio.

Almaraz’s brilliant and moody works blend his personal and cultural sensibilities, European symbolist and impressionist influences, and the Fauve's color palette. Almaraz's works also reflect the rich legacy of his complex, emotional odyssey.

In his lifetime, Carlos achieved international fame and great critical acclaim. His status in the international fine art world continues to elevate to this day.

The discussion panelists include the following long–time friends and associates of Carlos Almaraz:

·         Max Benavidez: Writer, art historian, and independent scholar.  Author of Gronk, the new book on the Los Angeles artist, published as part of UCLA CSRC/University of Minnesota Press's new Latino art series, A Ver.

·         Patrick Ela: Former museum director. Independent art consultant and  art appraiser.

·         Dan Guerrero:  Independent producer of diverse television programming and major live award shows and concert events with special expertise in the U.S. Latino and Latin American markets.

·         Gilbert “Magu” Lujan:  The founder of Los Four and an ever popular sculptor, muralist and painter. The design principal for the Hollywood & Vine station on the Red Line, Magu uses his Mesoamerican heritage, as well as current popular art and cultural folk sources for his Chicanarte.

Robert Squires, the gallery owner and director, will act as facilitator.

Date and Time: 5/20, 5 – 7 pm                

Location:  Carlotta’s Passion Fine Art, 2012 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90041

The presentation is free of charge to the public. No reservations are required. Ample street parking is available.

Contact: Robert Squires

Telephone: (323) 259-1563

E-mail:  rs@carlottaspassion.com

This panel discussion is occurring during “Three Chicanarte Greats: Carlos Almaraz, Gilbert "Magú" Luján, and Jose Lozano”, an exhibit that runs until May 27th. Many original Almaraz works in several media are available. The "Flying High with Francisco Toledo' exhibit, which features a broad selection of original Francisco Toledo art kites and etchings, is running at this same gallery until June 9th.