San Benito County has much to commend it beyond its natural
beauty and superb weather. And, as usual, it is often newcomers or
visitors who are more likely to comment upon institutions or
customs that the rest of us have taken for granted for years.
San Benito County has much to commend it beyond its natural beauty and superb weather. And, as usual, it is often newcomers or visitors who are more likely to comment upon institutions or customs that the rest of us have taken for granted for years.
El Teatro Campesino, for instance, is so familiar to us that we sometimes forget that it is a theater of international renown. Oriana Chorale is another example; its programs at Christmas and other times of the year are always welcome but we sometimes forget how good it is.
San Benito Stage Company is a relatively new group but shows promise of being around for a long time because of the dedication of its members and the skill of its actors.
Still another organization whose contributions to local culture continue all year-round is the Hollister Art League, whose Open Studios Tour 2003 is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.
Artists’ groups have long flourished in San Benito County because its beautiful landscapes and relics of the past invite the brush. But it would be a mistake to categorize it as a group of well-intentioned daubers who putter in watercolors, oils and other types of painting to adorn the walls of their studios or homes of their friends.
Many of its members have studied under brilliant teachers to learn how to best express their feelings graphically. All seem to have a natural talent that has been perfected over time with much effort.
Some exhibit in the library and in many local businesses, and a number of the members have inspired others with their enthusiasm by speaking and demonstrating at local schools and clubs.
The 13th annual Open Studios Tour will be held at the studios of more than 20 members between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday. Names and addresses were printed in Thursday’s newspaper and are available at the county Chamber of Commerce, 637-5315. It is an opportunity for the public to see the artists at work and to see their displays of paintings, sculptures and photographs.
This year, students from the high school will become part of tour, also. More than 100 students will display their work – and talent – at the YMCA, 339 Fifth St.
It is gratifying to see people channel their talent into something that often transforms the commonplace into the beautiful. It is especially satisfying to realize that members of another generation have been seized by the same ardor.
