Timeless, archaic elements are juxtaposed with post-modern imagery as HCC Ybor City Visual and Performing Arts will be showcasing work Tues., Nov. 5 4:30-6:30 p.m., from mixed-media Native American painter Mateo Romero at the HCC-Ybor Art Gallery.
Romero is the third generation of a family of noted artists from the Pueblo of Cochiti in Sante Fe, N.M. While his paintings depict Native American culture in traditional ceremonial dance and dress, Romero also addresses contemporary social themes such as violence, gambling and alcoholism. His abstract, expressionistic palette knife and swirling gestural brush work develop a rhythmic, tracelike feeling in his paintings, which refer to the metaphysical space of Puebllo and the dance itself.
Following Romero’s presentation, Native American violinist and flutist Arvel Bird is bringing his humanizing and enlightening music to the HCC Performing Arts building at 7:30 p.m. He’s known around the world for his dramatic connection between Celtic and Native American traditions and has toured with musicians such as Glen Campbell, Loretta Lynn and Louise Mandrell. Bird has also earned several music awards in the U.S. and Canada such as Best Instrumental Album at the Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards and Best Traditional Album at the Indian Summer Music Awards.