MOLINA FOURTH ANNUAL HOLIDAY ARTIST SHOWCASE

“Peace on Earth” Exhibit by Ofelia Esparza and Tribute to Self Help Graphics and Art

EAST LOS ANGELES (December 12, 2008) – This Holiday Season, Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina showcases two East L.A. icons at her Fourth Annual Holiday Artist Showcase. As part of her commitment to the arts, Molina promotes local artists at the annual event, and this year features the work of East L.A. artist Ofelia Esparza. In addition, the Showcase pays tribute to Self Help Graphics and Art (SHGA) with a special auction from their collection benefiting the renowned Chicano art organization.

WHAT: Supervisor Gloria Molina’s Fourth Annual Holiday Artist Showcase Benefiting
Self Help Graphics and Art – Features East L.A. artist Ofelia Esparza

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec 16, 5pm to 7pm

WHERE: East Los Angeles Civic Center Library, 4801 E. Third Street, L.A. 90022

WHO: Molina, Artist Ofelia Esparza, Self Help Graphics Board of Directors and artists

“I am proud that our featured artist Ofelia Esparza is a product of our community, and it is especially pleasing that like many, many talented Chicano artists, she was a student of Self Help Graphics, said Molina. “The Holidays are a time of giving and preserving traditions, a time of reflection and renewed hope, and when we remember the goodwill of others. This Holiday, my Artist Reception pays tribute to Self Help Graphics for nurturing and developing local artists during the past 35 years, and for making Chicano art known all over the world.”
Ofelia Esparza, whose art exhibit includes "Peace on Earth", is notably known for her work as an “Altarista”—which began at SHGA in 1980, where she continues to serve as a resident artist. Ofelia’s alters or “ofrendas” are works from a three-generation family tradition, which she proudly preserves. Her art is comprised of several mediums, including acrylics, printmaking, and water colors which have been featured in museums and galleries locally and internationally. Ofelia also teaches fine art and folk art at local schools, colleges, and community venues.
Contributions to help Self Help Graphics remain in East L.A., can be sent to
3802 Cesar E. Chavez Ave, L.A. CA 90063, or through PayPal at the http://www.selfhelpgraphics.com/.