The ArtCentre of Plano will open a new exhibition Feb. 6 that will run through March 27. In honor of Black History Month, the show will feature North Texas artists Evita Tezeno and Jas Mardis.
“The ArtCentre is committed to diversity throughout the year, but also feels it’s important to highlight the work of African Americans during the designated Black History Month,” shared ArtCentre of Plano Executive Director Suzy Jones. “Diversity is not only a part of our mission statement, but we feel it is vital that we represent the citizens of our Plano community on the walls of our galleries.”
Evita Tezeno has exhibited at the ArtCentre previously, and this time will be showcasing her Cubism-inspired collages. Evita works with handmade paper, acrylic paint and found objects. Her work has been lauded by entertainers, media personalities and professional athletes for its use of color, texture and shapes. She has been commissioned by the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, the Deep Ellum Film Festival and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.
“Evita’s works are incredibly unique. They evoke memories that will appeal to all audiences…and we’re delighted that she is helping us celebrate Black History Month,” Suzy noted.
When asked what it means to Evita to be able to share her work during Black History Month, she remarked that she felt “a sense of pride to show her God-given talent.”
Jas Mardis is a fabric and leather artist as well as a poet, writer and editor. He was inducted to the Texas Literary Hall of Fame for his 30-year career in literature. His fabric and leather works, which will be exhibited at the ArtCentre, focus on creating story quilts and sculptures. His work revolves around the history of the African American folk narrative. Jas has exhibited his work at Dallas Love Field, the Dallas Public Library and Swarthmore College.
“The variety and beautiful creativity of Jan Mardis’ work demands to be experienced personally. He works in a variety of mediums, and each one evokes special memories and emotions,” said Suzy.
“I’m excited about exhibiting with another dynamic artist working in an unexpected medium,” shared Jas. “This is the art of our hearts and souls and people, as well as the expanded experience of moving beyond those boundaries and taking in the breadth and depth of what home becomes as we grow older and share [our] artistic selves with a larger world.”
Patrons are invited to view the exhibition 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at no charge, though all works in the exhibition are for sale. Social distancing and mask wearing are required inside the ArtCentre.
The ArtCentre will host a Lunch and Learn discussion with the artists on Zoom Feb. 18. Register here.
ArtCentre of Plano >
ArtCentre of Plano
902 E 16th Street
Plano TX 75074
