VISUAL ARTS + MUSEUMS

The Brazilian Arts Foundation (BAF) is proud to present Boundless Motion, an eclectic combination of recycling materials and contemporary art. The exhibit showcases works created by the BAF Seniors Arts Program, local Brazilian artist Tony Paraná and guest artist from Salvador, Bahia Brazil Jorge Leite Lopes. The exhibit runs July 16 through August 31, 2011 at the Alliance Gallery. The exhibit Grand Opening will be July 16, from 6:00pm – 9:00pm.

The BAF Seniors Arts Program offers seniors at the Wesley Community Center weekly art and exercise classes. The art classes are designed to aid in externalizing emotions, enhance creativity and develop individual expression. The instructor also incorporates light stretching and gentle movements into the art class to improve energy levels and concentration. The classes are free to seniors. Their work represents the endless progression of human creativity.

Tony Paraná is a self-taught Brazilian artist from the state of Bahia. Many of Tony’s works, which range from community life to local architecture, portray the rich and eclectic flavor of this northeastern state. Tony works in oil, mixed media, sculptures, and mosaics to create unique art that imbues warmth and movement. His works have been exhibited in Sao Paulo Brazil; Los Angeles, California; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Houston, Texas.

Jorge Leite Lopes is a self-taught artist, producer, and creator… He uses raw, discarded materials, such as plastic containers, broken toys, bits of tile and electronics to create uncommon pieces of art. In 2004, he developed a technique that molds 2 liter plastic bottles by cutting and heating. This process is called “bottle mutation”. His works have been seen throughout Brazil in galleries, festival sceneries and various performances.