At the May IAA Members Meeting on Tuesday, May 24th, Ruben Contreras will demonstrate how to draw a portrait with just the use of white pencil on a black canvas. It’s a reverse way or process — instead of drawing with black pencil on white I will show an opposite way of doing it with white on black support.
Doors open at 6:30 pm. The business meeting and announcements start at 7:00 pm, followed by the art demonstration. Visitors are welcome. Location: Jaycee Park Center for the Arts, 1975 Puritan Dr., Irving TX 75061. The wearing of masks and social distancing is no longer required by emergency county decree — but it is appreciated since we have many members with health issues.
Note: Each month members should bring one of their recent artworks by 6:45 p.m. to participate in the “Artist of the Month” competition. The winning artist is awarded a prize and the artwork is displayed in the Gallery until the next monthly meeting. Christina’s Fine Mexican Restaurant (cristinasmex.com) is currently contributing a prize certificate for “Artist of the Month”.
Silent Auction table: We’re reviving another custom — there will be a bargain table of art supplies and books for artists. All proceeds go to IAA.
As always all gatherings are better with food! Please bring a snack to share (optional).
About the Artist: Ruben Contreras
Ruben is a local artist and art instructor as well as an IAA member. He is well known for his wonderful portraits of people and animals. He works in many drawing media and is a master of acrylic painting. Lately, he has developed a career in mural painting. Check out his video channel on Youtube where he demonstrates his art skills: https://www.youtube.com/user/maverick4578/featured and his Instagram channel contreras_art. Contact Ruben at contreras11121@att.net.
Ruben was born in Guatemala, the oldest of fourteen brothers and sisters. At an early age, he began to develop his artistic talent. He now lives in Grand Prairie, Texas, with his wife and children.
The subject of much of his art reveals his passion for nature. His paintings are done primarily in acrylic, and he exhibits great skill in capturing realistic images and emotional content.
Reuben is a member of other local art associations and regularly teaches painting to private students. He also teaches workshops through the Irving Art Association. Look for an announcement of his upcoming workshops! He actively exhibits his work and has won awards in juried art competitions in Arlington, DeSoto, Irving, Midlothian, and Granbury.
