Fernando Brito, Untitled from Tus Pasos se Perdieron con el Paisaje, 2024-2012
An artistic expression of images that capture the native perspective of the Mexican war on drugs will begin on Friday, February 1 at Fotofest. Cronicas will feature seven contemporary artists using their art as a voice speaking against the violent and devastating conflict.
The exhibit will reference and uncover the decades-long battle,the effect it has on the people of Mexico, and how that, in turn, affects the Houston area due to its proximity to Mexico and the trade of drugs and guns. Jennifer Ward, curator of the exhibit, says, “The drug war has become part of contemporary Mexican life. This artwork reflects this situation and the artists’ personal and familial histories before and during the war. Their work is critical of many aspects of the conflict, from the narcos themselves, to government policy, and the media. There is also great humanity in the work-a search for the personal, memories of the past, beauty among the horror.”
This event radiates a message “that art and life persist in times of conflict. Wherever you stand on the issues of drugs, what everyone can agree on is that violence associated with its trade has overrun Mexico and its people,” says Vinod Hopson of FotoFest.
The opening reception begins February 1, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy food, drinks, and music with the artists and curator. Also, in conjunction with Cronicas, there will be a literary event featuring five poets ranging from Houston locals to native Mexicans on Thursday, January 31 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The event will also feature a tree planting in Guadalupe Plaza Park as part of artist Pedro Reyes’ project Palas por Pistolas on Saturday, February 23 at 9:00 a.m. All other exhibits and linked events will be held at Fotofest Headquarters.
The event is free and open to the public from February 1 - March 9, 2024. It runs from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 pm.m; and Saturdays between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m . For more information visit the Fotofest website.
