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which champions growing Chicago pride and focuses attention upon the inequities in our society.

An even-handed satirist, Casas next turns his wit to the art world, poking playfully at the intent of abstract expressionism or pop art, decrying the commercialization of the art object.  And most recently, the culture of the Southwest with its stereotypes and symbols -- the landscape, food, objects of costume and tradition -- fall prey to his brush.

Born in the El Segundo barrio in El Paso, Mel Casas received degrees from Texas Western College in El Paso and the University of the Americas in Mexico.  Since 1961 he has taught at San Antonio College where he has been Chairman of the Art Department for the past ten years.  Artistically and philosophically Casas has exerted a strong influence on young Chicanos who have worked to forge their own artistic consciousness.  Of Casas himself, the power and breadth of his paintings make it difficult to neatly categorize the artist.  He continues to follow his own dictates as social critic and social conscience, never indifferent, painting with strength, beauty, and conviction the injustices and hypocrisies that surround us all.

(Program descriptions to be added, here.)

This exhibition has been made possible by a generous grant from American Telegraph and Telephone.  A catalogue and poster for the exhibition are available in the Museum Store.