Glendale gives tribute to community artists

Arts enthusiasts check on the artworks and photographs of Ronald "RonskiGFX" Cruz, which are some of the entries to Glendale's Annual Open Studio Tour on display at Patrick's Cafe along San Fernando Road. Ladies facing camera, from left, are photographer Anna Cruz and Zen Lopez, arts group coordinator.

GLENDALE – It didn't take long for Carlo Cruz, an emerging artist in search of a niche in competitive photography, to realize that it takes more than skill to accomplish a goal.

Like most participants of Glendale's 5th Annual Open Studio Tour, Carlo aimed for something different. In his case, however, the intended models were not exactly cooperative. On the lookout for the classic dejected look among the withered, stubble-covered faces of the homeless areas, the FilAm paparazzo instead had to endure insults and risked bodily harm. It took much resourcefulness and common sense on his part before the sought for shoots were in the bag.

The free, self-guided 10-day exhibit provided a peek into the studios and creative minds of talented and award winning artists who live and work in the City of Glendale. Entries were displayed in assigned locations along the route of Beeline buses although all participating artists had the opportunity to showcase one of their best pieces at the Brand Library Art Galleries during open hours.

Some of the more than 100 participants were from the cities of Burbank, Los Angeles, Pasadena, and others. Other kababayan artists who participated were Salvador Arellano, Irwin Jazmines, Bong Malabanan, Vics Magsaysay, Ver Penaranda, Ronald Ronski, Lynda Reyes, Rodolfo Samonte, Rene Villaroman, Ronald Cruz, Don Magno, and Carlos' wife Anna.

Since the start of the Open Studio Tour five years ago Rogel Aragon hosted the exhibits of FilAm artists at his Patrick's Cafe along San Fernando Road. Coordinator of the group's participation was international arts consultant Zen Lopez.

The event was sponsored by the City of Glendale Parks, Recreation and Community Service Department, Arts and Culture Commission, and Brand Library and Arts Center. - Text and photo by Dionesio C. Grava
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Dionesio C. Grava - Community journalist based in Los Angeles. Member of New America Media, Society of Professional Journalists, and Society of Environmental Journalists, among others.

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