Throughout the month of October\, The Weslaco Museum will host "\;Indigenous Warriors and Rituals of Mesoamerica\,"\; an installation by prolific artist and instructor Andy Villarreal. As curated by fellow artist Gaby Rico\, Villarreal&rsquo\;s work goes beyond simple remembrance for a buried people: it is the bold and bright continuation of an ancient tradition that shapes our culture today.
\n\nAlongside paintings of warriors\, pyramids\, jaguars\, and serpents\, the installation will also include a large ofrenda for Dí\;a de los Muertos. Evoking the pre-Columbian indigenous people of Mesoamerica\, the 17th century Catholic Church\, and the more familiar features of our modern holiday\, the altar demonstrates the original clashing and eventual melding of two distinct cultures into one\, unique celebration.
\n\nAndy A. Villarreal is based in San Antonio\, Texas\, where he has worked as an art instructor for nearly 30 years\, including his current positions with the University of the Incarnate Word and the Inspire Community Fine Art Center. As a highly awarded artist\, Mr. Villarreal has exhibited his pieces in hundreds of galleries and museums throughout the United States and Mexico. Gaby Rico has exhibited work both domestically and internationally\, as well as become an active proponent for the arts community in the Rio Grande Valley.
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