"To Make An End is to Make a Beginning" T.S. Eliot

I hope everyone had a safe and happy Christmas weekend. That's one holiday down and one to go! The birth of a new year is upon us once again. And just how did this past year go by so quickly? Funny how the sands of time sure seem to flow faster and faster as I get older. And, though I've stopped beating myself up by making unreasonable new year resolutions, I do enjoy looking back at where I've been and getting "back on track" in the months to come.

I've never heard of anyone saying from their deathbed, "I wish I'd spent more time at work." In the year ahead, remember in your rush to make ends meet that it's important to make time to do those things that bring joy into your soul. Spend some time letting your creative juices flow. How about flinging caution to the wind and trying something completely new that you haven't had the guts to tackle yet? Pick up a paint brush. Try out for a part in your local community theater. Let that piece of wood show you how to carve. Sing more songs - in your voice, not someone else's. Try saying, "I can't!" a lot less often and get out of your own way.

So, here's to what the future year brings for you with a quote from T.S. Eliot. "For last year's words belong to last year's language, And next year's words await another voice, And to make an end is to make a beginning."

Upcoming Artisan Events:

• Daily through December 30 - "Student Art Show" Exhibit. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Sunday, January 3, 2:00 p.m. - "Treasure of the Sierra Madre" Cinema Flashbacks Club. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Tuesday, January 5, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
• Daily through January 6 - "Bright Energy," The works of Narice Hopp. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. Admission: Free.
• Thursday, January 7, 7:30 p.m. - Preview of "Clarence Darrow for the Defense." Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Marquee Members, others $12
• Friday, January 8, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - "First Friday" Opening Reception, Adult Student Show. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Friday & Saturday, January 8-9, 7:30 p.m. - "Clarence Darrow for the Defense." Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Friday & Saturday, January 8-9, 8:00 p.m. - "Greater Tuna." Port Aransas Community Theater. Admission: $16.
• Daily through January 23 - "Currents" Member Show. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

Reason for the Season?

In 1948, Earl Count authored the book "4,000 Years of Christmas" and included this passage, "Shall we liken Christmas to the web in a loom? There are many weavers, who work into the pattern the experience of their lives. When one generation goes, another comes to take up the weft where it has been dropped. The pattern changes as the mind changes, yet never begins quite anew. At first, we are not sure that we discern the pattern, but at last we see that, unknown to the weavers themselves, something has taken shape before our eyes, and that they have made something very beautiful, something which compels our understanding."

This season brings a lot of different things to a host of divergent cultures. As I watched the news on Friday night documenting gridlock on Corpus Christi highways leading to the area's malls and shopping centers, watched cars circling parking lots looking in vain for a parking space, and read repeated angry emails about "reclaiming Christmas," it's a bit difficult to remember that at the heart of the season, we are all more similar than we are separate. This is supposed to be a time of giving and celebration, not materialism or pettiness.

Whatever your beliefs, this is a time of rebirth and second chances. The winter solstice marks the seasonal and spiritual turning points when the light returns to lengthen our days again, when we reflect on the year just passed and we wonder (and hope) about the year to come. Whatever label you choose to put on it, whatever weft you wish to weave; if it's done with love, you can't go wrong. We all have the potential to be artists everyday; weaving color into our loved ones' lives, adding texture to the canvas of our days, and making a positive contribution to the beauty around us. Best wishes for the season, everyone!

Upcoming Artisan Events:

• Tuesday, December 29, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
• Daily through December 30 - "Student Art Show" Exhibit. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Sunday, January 3, 2:00 p.m. - "Treasure of the Sierra Madre" Cinema Flashbacks Club. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Daily through January 6 - "Bright Energy," The works of Narice Hopp. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. Admission: Free.
• Thursday, January 7, 7:30 p.m. - Preview of "Clarence Darrow for the Defense." Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Marquee Members, others $12
• Friday, January 8, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - "First Friday" Opening Reception, Adult Student Show. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Friday & Saturday, January 8-9, 7:30 p.m. - "Clarence Darrow for the Defense." Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Friday & Saturday, January 8-9, 8:00 p.m. - "Greater Tuna." Port Aransas Community Theater. Admission: $16.
• Daily through January 23 - "Currents" Member Show. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

One of my favorite things about being part of the Rialto Theater is the role I get to play in supporting new artists and introducing new creative works. Several musicians (with varying degrees of stage fright) have made their public debut at our acoustic jam and are now regulars on stage with us every Tuesday. A few visual artists who had never exhibited their work have allowed us to encourage them by hanging their pieces in the gallery to great success. It's very satisfying to sell a first-time artist's work and see their mixed reaction at letting a "baby" go.

As the year comes to a close (I can't believe how fast it's gone!), I enjoy looking back at the folks we've supported on their creative journey. The landscape is constantly changing; some stay, some go, some we watch take a dogleg and introduce completely new sounds and unexpected styles. It's a joy to watch, even though it sometimes means saying goodbye to an artist as they move on to other stages and other galleries.

This Friday, the Rialto is celebrating another first with a book-signing by local author Jeanie Edwardson. I met Jeanie quite some time ago as she was just getting started in the publication process. After a few delays and challenges along the way, her children's book has finally been released! "Froggy Fun" profiles Freddy of Fernleaf Forest who sings and plays the autoharp. His friend, Franny, encourages him not to hide his talents (just like the Rialto does!). Please join us at the reception on Friday at 6:30 p.m. Let's show support for our local artists in a big way and celebrate Jeanie's tenacity in getting this book published!

Upcoming Artisan Events:

• Daily through January 6 - "Bright Energy," The works of Narice Hopp. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. Admission: Free.
• Daily through January 23 - "Currents" Member Show. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.
• Daily through December 30 - "Student Art Show" Exhibit. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Friday, December 18, 6:30 p.m. - "Froggy Fun" Book Signing by Jeanie Edwardson. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free.
• Tuesday, December 22, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
• Sunday, January 3, 2:00 p.m. - "Treasure of the Sierra Madre" Cinema Flashbacks Club. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Thursday, January 7, 7:30 p.m. - Preview of "Clarence Darrow for the Defense." Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Marquee Members, others $12
• Friday, January 8, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - "First Friday" Opening Reception, Adult Student Show. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Friday & Saturday, January 8-9, 7:30 p.m. - "Clarence Darrow for the Defense." Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Friday & Saturday, January 8-9, 8:00 p.m. - "Greater Tuna." Port Aransas Community Theater. Admission: $16.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday weekend filled with friends, family and, of course, good food! And, I hope you made some time to explore and enjoy the beautiful arts community we have in our area. We joined a group of "orphans;" an eclectic group of folks without family in the region who got together for a potluck (and delicious) meal. The hostess is quite the visual artist with paintings and sculpture displayed throughout. Rumor has it that the host plays a mean sax. Their home was filled with lovely pieces that reflected their diverse tastes and the music on the stereo set the stage with sounds from around the world.

It was a joyful evening catching up with old friends while getting to know some new ones. Many give back to the community through a variety of ways; volunteers and professionals working for the Lupus Foundation, The Fulton Mansion, and the Rialto Theater; active in historical renovations for needy houses; and, of course, through their patronage of places like The Rockport Art Center.

As I've gotten older, I've grown more and more disgusted with the commercialization of Christmas and the holidays. So, I'm going to encourage you (the economy aside) to please think about the true meaning of the season and rededicate yourself to give more of your time and money to deserving non-profit organizations in our region. There's such a need across the board that everyone can find a cause that touches their heart. Whether it's art-related or not, please think about giving more than money this year. Volunteers always seem to be in short supply - organizations need your presence. Think about that instead of vying for a parking place at the mall to spend money on more stuff nobody really needs.

Upcoming Artisan Events:

• Friday-Saturday, December 4-5, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, December 6, 2:00 p.m. - "Misery" by Simon Moore, Adapted from Stephen King's novel. Live Stage Production. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Saturday, December 5, 5:30 p.m. - Opening Reception for "Currents" Member Show. On exhibit through January 23. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.
• Sunday, December 6, 2:00 p.m. - "Student Art Show" Opening Reception. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Tuesday, December 8, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
• Friday & Saturdays through December 11, - Opening night for "Christmas Carol." Live Theater. Fridays & Saturdays through December 11. Harbor Playhouse. Admission: $16.
• Saturday, December 12, 2:00 p.m. - "Acoustic Country Blues Guitar Workshop" by Steve James. Intermediate to advanced guitar players. Advance registration required: Minimum six, maximum twelve participation. Rialto Theater. Admission: $30.
• Saturday, December 12, 7:30 p.m. - "Steve James in Concert." Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Sunday, December 13, 2:00 p.m. - "My Life As a Dog." Cinema Flashbacks Club, Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Friday & Saturday, December 18-19, 7:30 p.m. - "The Jolly Holly Follies" Revue. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12. Daily through January 6 -
• Daily through Jan 6 - "Bright Energy," The works of Narice Hopp. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. "Meet the Artist" Reception, November 7, 6:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

Gulf Coast Art Transcends

Yesterday morning, I stole an hour out of my schedule to make it over to the Rockport Art Center so I could walk through the "Shorelines" exhibit just before it ended its run. We have such talented artists available for viewing in our area; I'm continually amazed at the variety of styles and the innovative work I see. Certainly, we have many talented "birds & beaches" artists on display but there are just as many contemporary, avante garde artists available if you take the time to look. And kudos to those non-profit art centers and boutique galleries that support them!

If we open ourselves to it, the artistic endeavors; whether a painting, music, or play, can transcend time, politics, language, and religious differences. We can find solace and peace for awhile in losing ourselves in a melody, a stage play or in an art exhibit. Maya Angelou said, "Not everything you do is going to be a masterpiece, but you get out there and you try and sometimes it really happens. The other times you're just stretching your soul." Beyond the artist's potential to make something happen, I think every artist's work, regardless of style, has the potential to touch another; to ease their mind, to stretch their boundaries, to expand the light.

Our little area of the Gulf Coast has a great variety of artistic talent to explore. There are non-profit art organizations in practically every community here - go out, explore, expand your soul and show your support for our region's creative talents.

Upcoming Artisan Events:

• Friday-Saturday, November 27-28, 7:30 p.m. - "Misery" by Simon Moore, Adapted from Stephen King's novel. Live Stage Production. On stage through December 6 with final Sunday matinee at 2:00 p.m. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
  
• Tuesday, December 1, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
  
• Saturday, December 5, 5:30 p.m. - Opening Reception for "Currents" Member Show. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.
  
• Sunday, December 6, 2:00 p.m. - "Student Art Show" Opening Reception. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
  
• Friday & Saturdays through December 11, - Opening night for "Christmas Carol." Live Theater. Fridays & Saturdays through December 11. Harbor Playhouse. Admission: $16.
  
• Saturday, December 12, 2:00 p.m. - "Acoustic Country Blues Guitar Workshop" by Steve James. Intermediate to advanced guitar players. Advance registration required: Minimum six, maximum twelve participation. Rialto Theater. Admission: $30.
  
• Saturday, December 12, 7:30 p.m. - "Steve James in Concert." Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
  
• Sunday, December 13, 2:00 p.m. - "My Life As a Dog." Cinema Flashbacks Club, Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
  
• Friday & Saturday, December 18-19, 7:30 p.m. - "Christmas & Other Tidings of Joy" Variety Theater. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
  
• Daily through January 6 - "Bright Energy," The works of Narice Hopp. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. "Meet the Artist" Reception, November 7, 6:30 p.m. Admission: Free.
  

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

Celebrating Arts in the Coastal Bend

It's a foggy, rainy day this morning and my head is full of memories from last evening's "Black Tie & Blue Jeans" Gala at the Rialto Theater. Members were admitted free, volunteers who went above and beyond in the last year were recognized, some area restaurants donated samples from their menus for the reception table and Claude Bourbon put on one heck of a show! And, as always, everyone had fun with the dress code and did ourselves proud with an eclectic range of attire from top hats and evening gowns to t-shirts and denim.

Kudos to the Gumbo Factory and El Maguey's in Aransas Pass; Fai Foo's Cafe and Shempy's Grill in Rockport; and Blackbeard's Too in Ingleside for their delicious offerings to patrons of the annual anniversary celebration. It's a challenge coordinating foods and participation with lots of phone tag that doesn't always result in a donation but these restaurants came through for the Rialto and it's much appreciated!! Please show them your appreciation, too!

Thank you to the volunteers who don't do it for the recognition or the certificate and to Cindy Bankes who somehow manages to coordinate their participation at all of the Rialto's events every single time. Thanks to the artists who share their work and exhibit on the walls. Thanks to Stuart Michael Burns who has the fun job of coordinating the music concerts all year long around all the other events that take place. Thanks to Jim Elder who not only runs the monthly board meetings, but also builds sets, directs plays, and recruits other directors to join in the fun. Karen Froeschner and Cassie Dietrich deserve recognition for their work in keeping the Rialto in the public eye with press releases, advertising, and other marketing magic. Kay Wise-Denty plays a major role in the Rialto's renaissance; on stage and behind the scenes, she helps us remember that what we're doing is important while striving for improvement. The Rialto thanks Paula Stone who has written all of the grants to help pay the bills and expand the programs!

Thanks again to the City of Aransas Pass who, with their generous donation from the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund earlier this year, helped the Rialto Theater get the word out to an even broader audience. That only strengthened the Rialto's ability to encourage more people to visit Aransas Pass this year - the little town that shrimp built has got a whole lot to offer and the theater is happy to play their part in getting that message out.

Upcoming Artisan Events:

• Tuesday, November 17, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
• Thursday, November 19, 7:30 p.m. - Members' Free Preview of Live Stage production of "Misery" by Stephen King. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Marquee Members, $12 other.
• Friday, November 20, 7:30 p.m. - Opening Night Reception for "Misery" by Stephen King. Live Stage Production. Fridays & Saturdays through December 5. December 6, 2:00 p.m Matinee. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Friday, November 20, 7:00 p.m. - Opening night for "Christmas Carol." Live Theater. Fridays & Saturdays through December 11. Harbor Playhouse. Admission: $16.
• Daily through November 21 - "Shorelines" Art Exhibit. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.
• Saturday, November 22, 2:00 p.m. - "The Gods Must Be Crazy" Cinema Flashbacks Club. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Daily through November 27 - "The Music in Me" Art Exhibit. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Saturday, December 12, 2:00 p.m. - "Acoustic Country Blues Guitar Workshop" by Steve James. Intermediate to advanced guitar players. Advance registration required: Minimum six, maximum twelve participation. Rialto Theater. Admission: $30.
• Saturday, December 12, 7:30 p.m. - "Steve James in Concert." Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Sunday, December 13, 2:00 p.m. - "My Life As a Dog." Cinema Flashbacks Club, Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Friday & Saturday, December 18-19, 7:30 p.m. - "Christmas & Other Tidings of Joy" Variety Theater. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Daily through January 6 - "Bright Energy," The works of Narice Hopp. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. "Meet the Artist" Reception, November 7, 6:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

Artisan Column 11/2/09

On Saturday, I hope the community will join in celebrating the seventy-two years the Rialto Theater has stood in the heart of downtown Aransas Pass. Back in 1937, the Rialto opened its doors to provide the latest and greatest in movie entertainment to this area. If you haven't been back to the Rialto since the doors re-opened five years ago (and you're missing out on quite a bit, if you haven't!), now is the time to walk in the door. The non-profit organization operating the building has expanded beyond the original movie mission to offer live theatrical productions, acoustic music concerts, and eclectic art exhibits. Every Tuesday evening, a free acoustic jam takes the stage with music from the heart; no paid performers, no admission fee, just pure, unadulterated music of all styles. The Cinema Flashbacks Club has brought movies back again to the Rialto this year: $5.00 gets you admission to six months of outstanding classic movies that stand the test of time.

The Rialto's annual "Black Tie & Blue Jeans" Gala this Saturday will celebrate the past, focus on the future and is one way the theater thanks its members and volunteers for their ongoing support. All Marquee Members get free admission to the gala and the Volunteer of the Year is announced at the gala, as well. It's also a major fundraiser to help keep the doors open. Ticket sales help but don't cover all the bills. The performance rights for the plays don't come cheap ($65-75 per night), the annual ASCAP/BMI licensing is costly, seventy to eighty percent of all concert sales go directly to the performers, and the electric bill averages over $600 per month.

In large part to a Hotel and Motel Tax Fund grant from the City of Aransas Pass this year, the Rialto Theater was able to expand their advertising so they've been happy to see many, many folks from outside of town come in to enjoy this historic venue and live productions. However, the reality is without the support of the local community as well; be it your dollars, your attendance, or your volunteer support, it will be impossible to keep the arts alive in the downtown area in the years to come. The Rialto needs you to be there - to celebrate with them, to volunteer with them, and to continue to provide an engaging social center for the community in the years to come.

If you made popcorn in the concession stand, if you sold tickets in years past, if you took a date to the movies, if you ran films in the projection booth, if you wrote JJ + JR on the bathroom stalls, if the Rialto played any role at all in your past, please join in keeping these historic doors open for all in the future. Art adds so much vibrancy to the town and in our region. Join the Rialto Theater on Saturday to celebrate their anniversary and to celebrate the fact that Aransas Pass continues to play a significant part in the growth of our area during challenging times.

Upcoming Artisan Events:

• Friday, November 6, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. - "The Music in Me - First Friday" Opening Reception. Art Center for the Islands. On Exhibit through November 27. Admission: Free.
• Saturday, November 7 - "Black Tie & Blue Jeans" Annual Gala & Fundraiser celebrating 72nd Anniversary of Rialto Theater's Grand Opening. "Toast of the Coast" Reception, "Meet the Artist" Narice Hopp, and concert by Claude Bourbon. Complimentary champagne. Admission: $15.
• Tuesday, November 10, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
• Thursday, November 19, 7:30 p.m. - Members' Free Preview of Live Stage production of "Misery" by Stephen King. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Marquee Members, $12 other.
• Friday, November 20, 7:30 p.m. - Opening Night Reception for "Misery" by Stephen King. Live Stage Production. Fridays & Saturdays through December 5. December 6, 2:00 p.m Matinee. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Friday, November 20, 7:00 p.m. - Opening night for "Christmas Carol." Live Theater. Fridays & Saturdays through December 11. Harbor Playhouse. Admission: $16.
• Daily through November 21 - "Shorelines" Art Exhibit. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.
• Saturday, November 22, 2:00 p.m. - "The Gods Must Be Crazy" Cinema Flashbacks Club. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Saturday, December 12, 2:00 p.m. - "Acoustic Country Blues Guitar Workshop" by Steve James. Intermediate to advanced guitar players. Advance registration required: Minimum six, maximum twelve participation. Rialto Theater. Admission: $30.
• Saturday, December 12, 7:30 p.m. - "Steve James in Concert." Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Sunday, December 13, 2:00 p.m. - "My Life as a Dog." Cinema Flashbacks Club, Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Daily through January 6 - "Bright Energy," The works of Narice Hopp. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. "Meet the Artist" Reception, November 7, 6:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

Artabout in the Coastal Bend

"We get by with a little help from our friends." That song by the Beatles has been running through my head since last night. I'm sure it will go back to the ether when I've gotten through the latest angst in dealing with artistic temperaments, schedule miscommunications, and the challenges of paying the bills while trying to juggle the volunteer work that feeds the soul. You know the story - never enough time or money to do the things you want when you're engaged in multiple projects; all of which are important to you and to the community. Thanks to all of those folks who come to the rescue and go the extra mile to make a difference in our area!!

I've been blessed to come into contact with creative and dynamic people around much of the globe and those that live here in the Coastal Bend are no exception. Go to an artist's house and you'll not only be surrounded by their work but also the work from other artists they admire filling their space (artists are excellent barterers!) . And when I say "filling the space," I don't mean just physically. The emotional aspect of art is as much a part of the work as anything else and varies based on the individual viewing it. Your reaction to an artist's piece is what makes or breaks the connection at that moment.

And the moments change based on what's happening to you in that time period. What turns you off one day may elicit a more positive, meaningful experience next month if you have the chance to view the same work again. Speaking of repeat viewings, it's time again to visit the artists in Port Aransas during their annual "Artabout" this weekend. This is a trail of open studios and open galleries that offers the public behind-the-scenes glimpses of the artists at work. In addition, many of them will be giving live demonstrations of their technique in their home studios. Jake and I will donating a performance during the event at the Port A Gallery in Pelican's Landing. Hope to see you there!
Upcoming Artisan Events:

• Saturday, October 17, 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. - "Port A Art About" Open Studio & Gallery Walk, Port Aransas. Maps at Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Saturday, October 17, 5:30 p.m. - "Shorelines" Art Exhibit. On display through November 21. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.
• Tuesday, October 20, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
• Saturday, October 24, 7:30 p.m. - Concert by Bluesman Jesse Cahn. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.
• Fridays and Saturdays through October 31, 7:00 p.m. - "Rocky Horror Show" Musical. Harbor Playhouse. Admission: $16.
• Saturday, November 1, 5:30 p.m. - "Director's Open House," Rialto Theater. Admission: Free.
• Saturday, November 1, 7:30 p.m. - "The Manchurian Candidate" Cinema Flashbacks Club. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free to Members, $5 to join.
• Daily through November 4. - "Fireworks & Bling" Art Exhibit. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
• Saturday, November 7 - "Black Tie & Blue Jeans" Annual Gala & Fundraiser celebrating 72nd Anniversary of Rialto Theater's Grand Opening. "Toast of the Coast" Reception, Art by Narice Hopp, and concert by Claude Bourbon. Complimentary champagne. Admission: $15.
• Daily through January 6 - "Bright Energy," The works of Narice Hopp. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. "Meet the Artist" Reception, November 7, 6:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line atjen@jenscoastalbend.com.

Fear, Uncertainty & Doubt

"The things we fear most in organizations - fluctuations, disturbances, imbalances - are the primary sources of creativity." So said Margaret Wheatley, co-founder of The Berkana Institute, a global charitable organization with the motto "Whatever the problem, community is the answer." I've noticed a lot of folks who fear change, uncertainty and doubt but the reality is most progress doesn't occur without it.

Aransas Pass has certainly seen its share of fluctuations, disturbances and imbalances, especially in the political realm. I mean, admit it, you have to wonder occasionally - are we ever going to have a city manager again who gets to stay longer than a few months? Regardless, though, we are making progress in many creative and wondrous ways. As I was driving to Conn Brown Harbor and the Annual Boating Conference event on Thursday, I celebrated how wonderful that area is looking now. Most of the debris is gone and neglected boats have disappeared. We have a Farmer's Market twice a month at the Chamber. We have our own year-round visual and performing arts venue at the historic Rialto Theater downtown. As a realtor, I see a lot of homes renovated and fixed-up around town. Our Civic Center is a great step forward. Yes, we have more to do but I know that with fortitude, our community continues to tackle problem areas, improve and grow.

This column primarily centers around art and creativity and, while it obviously focuses most on the artistic realm, I try to consistently get across the fact that creativity is not an 'artists only' characteristic. I believe everyone has a bit of the artist within. You may not consider yourself one, but that does not mean you cannot be open and creative every day. So, open your mind, open your heart and do something today that gives back to our community - whether you consider it "artistic" or not.

Upcoming Artisan Events:

- Friday, October 9, 7:30 p.m. - "Geezerpalooza" Concert by Steven Fromholz and Vince Bell. Rialto Theater. Admission: $20.
- Fridays and Saturdays through October 9 - "Broken Up" Live Stage Comedy. Port Aransas Community Theatre. Admission: $15.
- Fridays and Saturdays through October 31, 7:00 p.m. - "Rocky Horror Show" Musical. Harbor Playhouse. Admission: $16.

- Sunday, October 11, 7:30 p.m. - Cinema Flashbacks Club. "Rififi" French Crime Masterpiece. Rialto Theater. Admission: Membership $5, Free to Club Members.

- Tuesday, October 13, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).

- Saturday, October 24, 7:30 p.m. - Concert by Bluesman Jesse Cahn. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.

- Daily through October 10 - "(un)natural worlds" Art Exhibit. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.

- Daily through November 4. - "Fireworks & Bling" Art Exhibit. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.
- Daily through November 5 - Exhibit of the work of Rockport artist Ed Boyd. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. Admission: Free.

- Saturday, November 7 - "Black Tie & Blue Jeans" Annual Gala & Fundraiser celebrating Rialto Theater's Grand Opening. Admission: $15.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

Art in the not-so-traditional sense...

Jackson Pollock said "It’s all a big game of construction, some with a brush, some with a shovel, some choose a pen." Mr. Pollock is an American Abstract Expressionist (how's that for a category?) artist who produced huge and chaotic pieces. Personally, his work doesn't "do it" for me but I agree with the general attitude that art is expressed through a variety of media, some not so traditional. It's a part of all of us, whether we think of ourselves in that way or not.

I've done a lot of remodeling and renovation work on old and not-so-old buildings. It's something I enjoy very much for a variety of reasons. There's a lot of creativity involved, a sense of leaving something better than I found it, and a chance to pass a home on to others who will live within it and enjoy it. It's put me into contact with a lot of contractors, very few of whom think of themselves as artists. But the ones who are very good at what they do are, indeed, artists. You see it in the exacting way they form joints, in how well they they sand wood for a finish, or how they share their thoughts during the process to improve on the original idea or design.

I believe the artistic and creative talents are all around us, beyond what most may think of as "traditional art" or "fine art." Take some time this week to look beyond the classic definition of art and enjoy!

- Fridays and Saturdays through August 30, 8:00 p.m. - "Who Was That Masked Man?" Live Melodrama. Harbor Playhouse. Admission: $13.

- Tuesday, August 18, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).

- Sunday, August 30, 7:30 p.m. - "The General" Cinema Flashbacks Club, Rialto Theater. Buster Keaton at his best. Admission: Free to CFC members ($5 membership).

- Daily through September 6 - "Wild Spirits," paintings by Ingleside artist Jane Johnson. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. Admission: Free.

- Daily through September 3 - "2008 Member Merit Show Award Winners" Art Exhibit. Art Center for the Islands. Admission: Free.

- Daily through September 5 - "Standing Out" Members' Merit Show. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.

- Fridays and Saturdays, September 11 through September 26, 7:30 p.m. - "Steel Magnolias" Live Stage Play. Preview on Thursday, September 10 Free to Marquee Members. Rialto Theater. Admission: $12.

- Fridays and Saturdays, September 18 through October 9 - "Broken Up" Live Stage Comedy. Port Aransas Community Theatre. Admission: $15.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.

"Pure as the Driven Snow" & Area Art Calendar

I heard the Rialto Theater's opening weekend of "Pure as the Driven Snow" was a rousing success complete with boos, hisses & popcorn-throwing at the villian! It doesn't get much better than that! Nothing like some audience participation to add to the laughter on stage. Reminds me of the stories I've heard about traveling shows in the "Old West" complete with six-shooters going off. You'll have to leave the guns at home, load up on some popcorn in the concession area and go have some old-fashioned fun at the theater. It's on for two more weekends.

And speaking of drama, auditions for "Steel Magnolias" continue at the Rialto tonight. Our little corner of the Coastal Bend is full of characters and the play is known for its portrayal of strong southern women. Add Texas to that southern mix and you've got real potential!! I'm not the director, but I run into women every time I turn around who could easily play Clairee, Ouiser and Truvy without even trying. So, come on - you know you've always wanted to act out on stage and "Steel Magnolias" is a great one to stretch into! Channel some inner Shirley MacLaine and go for it! It'll be the theater's season opener in September and sure to be a great kick-off for another successful year of plays, music, and art in our community.

The more I travel, the more I realize how much it takes the support of a community to keep the arts alive within it, especially in tough economic times! If you're not comfortable acting (yet) or singing in the weekly jam, consider volunteering in the gallery, in the concession "stand" or just come in to help scrub the toilets. There's a variety of roles art centers need in our area; work behind the scenes is just as important as on stage.

- Wednesday, July 22, 7:00 p.m - Auditions, "Steel Magnolias." Rialto Theater. No experience necessary. Admission: Free.
- Fridays & Saturdays through Aug 1, 7:30 p.m. - "Pure As the Driven Snow" Live Stage Melodrama, Rialto Theater. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Admission: $12.
- Tuesday, July 28, 7:00 p.m. - "Rialto Rhythms" Weekly Open Acoustic Jam. Rialto Theater. Admission: Free ($5 contribution suggested).
- Fridays & Saturdays, July 31 - August 1, 7:30 p.m. - "Shoot Out at Darby Wells." Youth Theater. Port Aransas Community Theater. Admission: $12.
- Fridays & Saturdays through August 2, 7:00 p.m. - "Cats" Live Stage Play by T.S. Eliot. Harbor Playhouse. Admission: $16.\
- Daily thought July 31st - "Barefoot Sale" Art Exhibit of summer sale items from member artists. Art Center for the Islands, Port Aransas. Admission: Free.
- Daily through August 1 - "2009 Rockport Art Festival Poster Artist" Exhibit of Lisa Baer's work. Rockport Center for the Arts. Admission: Free.
- Sunday, August 9, 7:30 p.m. - Cinema Flashbacks Club, Rialto Theater. 1959 crime drama directed by Otto Preminger, starring Jimmy Stewart, Lee Remick and Ben Gazzara. Rated R. Admission: Free to CFC members ($5 membership).
- Daily through September 6 - Opening Reception for "Wild Spirits," paintings by Ingleside artist Jane Johnson. Rialto Theater Main Gallery. Admission: Free.

Jen Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of the Rialto Theater, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization fostering art and education through visual art, music and live stage productions in the historic movie theater in downtown Aransas Pass. Her day job is in real estate at Coldwell Banker Myers-Gallagher. If you have someone you'd like to spotlight in this column, drop her a line at jen@jenscoastalbend.com.