The public got a chance to hear Watsonville artist Yermo Aranda talk about his lengthy contributions to the art world on Jan. 31 at a talk at the Santa Cruz Art League.
Aranda and about 60 guests sat in the center of the current exhibit, “Yermo Aranda Retrospective” a new art exhibit that spells out 55 years of his work.
He told the crowd that he has completed 97 murals, which garnered gasps of amazement.
“And I’m going to hit 100,” he added.
Aranda has a lengthy history of working with local youth and organizations on murals at schools and businesses, including Watsonville High, Hall District School, and Pajaro Middle School. The show includes dozens of prints, etchings, studies, sketches, paintings, and a 6-foot-high by 20-foot mural on canvas that explores decades of “cultural memory and cultural legacy.”
According to the Art League, “Aranda has devoted his life to creating art that honors community, ancestry, and the living spirit of culture.” They describe him as a central figure in California’s mural movement.
He told the gathering that working with youths has been a high point.
“They tell me, ‘Those moments of making the murals are some of the most important memories of my life.’ I see art as a documentary and a powerful tool.”
When asked about advice for young artists, Aranda said, “Keep drawing and take time to achieve the things you want to do. Continue to practice and go for it. Don’t limit yourself.”
The next show at the Art League will be “Back and Forth, the Unintended Beauty of Textiles” set for March 4-April 10.
