7th annual SMarts Awards announced
In observance of National Arts and Humanities Month, the San Marcos Arts Commission will present its SMarts Advocacy Awards to individuals and organizations who are making significant contributions to the San Marcos arts and cultural scene from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 11 at Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos, 211 Lee Street.
The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served, and remarks and awards will begin at 6:30 p.m.
The four recipients of SMarts Awards this year represent the performing arts, cultural arts, and the visual arts:
San Marcos Performing Arts Association
Founded over 30 years ago, the SMPAA hosts and supports events that bring diversity and cultural interests to the community through concerts, art installations, and many more.
The biggest and most successful event supported by SMPAA is Summer in the Park. Usually averaging at 1,500 participants, Summer in the Park recently set a new record of 3,400 participants.
This organization is striving to bring an array of opportunities to experience all that encompasses performing arts to this community.
Carlos “Chitah Daniels Kennedy” Molina
As Entertainment Director at Stonewall Warehouse, Carlos “Chitah Daniels Kennedy” Molina has hosted numerous fundraisers for local non-profits as well as raised thousands of dollars for charities. He has set a stage for young performance artists to express themselves in a safe space.
By providing a safe and inclusive platform, Molina has expanded the opportunities for these artists to showcase their work while celebrating the value of our local talent.
The Price Center
With its convenient downtown location, spectacular natural garden, and historic roots, The Price Center serves as a hub for gatherings and events. Some of these events and activities include Third Thursday Downtown Walkabout, Fourth Flea, Mardi Gras, and Wine Walks. The Price Center also offers educational opportunities such as classes for quilting, dancing, painting and many more. This location has provided the community with a diverse range of opportunities that supports our vibrant culture and distinct art economy.
Kevin Huffaker
A man of many talents and accomplishments, Kevin Huffaker is a local artist who founded the Texas Metal Arts Festival in Gruene, which has run successfully for many years. Huffaker not only served as an Arts Commissioner from 2010-2011, but was vice-chair of the Commission and helped the city of San Marcos commission the MLK-LBJ Crossroads Memorial. Huffaker had a hand in the building of The Eye of the Dog Art Center; provided production assistance in the movie Yakona; and created and become the president of 218 Co-op Gallery.
This is the seventh year the San Marcos Arts Commission has given out SMarts Advocacy Awards as part of its ongoing efforts to elevate, incubate and expand arts and cultural efforts in San Marcos.
For more information, visit the Arts website; contact Lisa Morris, Recreation Programs Manager at lmorris@sanmarcostx.gov; or call the San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department at 512-393-8400.
