Kirk Clark addresses guests

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce along with the Rio Grande Valley Arts Council, Charles Clark Chevrolet/Clark Knapp Honda, and the International Museum of Art & Science presented an exclusive art exhibit entitled “Artists In Our Midst” which took on April 6, 2004 at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

“Artists In Our Midst” featured 12 different local artists displaying various disciplines of art such as acrylics, graphite, iron sculptures, mosaics, and jewelry to name a few.  The exhibit called for artists to feature four of their best pieces for display and purchase.  A portion of the proceeds was donated by the artists to the Rio Grande Valley Arts Council in support of the arts.

 Visitor looks at art work
“This is the first time that all of these organizations have joined together and created an exhibit to display the virtuous talent that exists in our local community,” said McAllen Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Steve Ahlenius.  “The exhibit was an extraordinary event with 300 visitors.  Our goal was to invite the community to join us in our effort to support the arts.”

Kirk Clark curated the exhibit.  Featured artists included Kirk Clark, Carol Etheridge, Berry Fritz, Eduardo Garcia, Noe Hinojosa, Becky Jones, Maria Elena Macias, Reynaldo Santiago, Richard Smith, Joe Taylor, Aledia Garcia Wedgworth, and Brian Wedgworth.  Music was provided by Valley Symphony Orchestra & Chorale.
  		Visitors admire jewlery in the case
“We hope that our involvement in the arts will continue to grow,” said Ahlenius.  “The Arts make a significant contribution to our way of life, and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce along with the Rio Grande Valley Arts Council, Clark Chevrolet, and the International Museum of Art & Science will continue to encourage the development of this important aspect of our community in any way we can.”