.png)
|
PurposeThe purpose of The Laredo Center for the Arts, Inc. shall be to coordinate, promote, encourage and support the arts for the Laredo area; to promote a cultural climate in the city of Laredo, Texas, in which the artistic creativity of all people may find voice; to organize and adapt the community’s resources to the needs of the artists and the public; to work with and advise officials, agencies, organizations, schools, businesses, and committees in supporting art activities; to seek to encourage the establishments of new art forms, to develop public and educational programs; to strengthen existing programs and organizations and promote tourism; to undertake other such activity that will encourage public participation and appreciation of the arts and humanities in the Laredo area; and to carry out those functions necessary to enhance the image of Laredo as a center for the arts. This corporation is a non-profit corporation, organized exclusively for educational and charitable purposes. | EDUCATIONThe Laredo Center for the Arts provides a variety of arts education programs for children and adults. Thanks to the support of many local corporations and foundations, we are able to coordinate an exciting curriculum of music, theater, and visual arts classes. Click below to see our events schedule. |
|
.jpeg)
OLD MERCADO BUILDING In the early 1800s, Laredo underwent significant changes with the arrival of the Texas-Mexican Railroad in November 1881 and the International and Great Northern Railroad in December. The Mexican National Railway also expanded its lines south from Nuevo Laredo. Additionally, the Rio Grande and Eagle Pass narrow-gauge built thirty miles of track to coal mines, tripling Laredo’s population. This rapid growth prompted the construction of a new city hall, designed by architect W.H. Tyndall and completed by contractor Louis J. Giraud in 1884. The new city hall featured an eclectic architectural style with a two-story west wing housing city offices and a large auditorium for various events. The eastern portion, built as a market house, centralized the city's vendors and became a bustling hub. Over the years, the building saw various uses and renovations, including hosting the Laredo Women’s Club library and serving as an arena for athletic events. After several decades and numerous modifications, the building was restored in 1985 and is now known as "El Mercado." Today, the Laredo Center for the Arts is located in the Old Mercado Building. This architectural gem is a testament to the artistic architectural influences preserved in Laredo. The preservation efforts behind maintaining the building are a form of art itself. |
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Gilberto Rocha - President
Melissa Amici - Vice President
Jessica Diez Barroso - Secretary
Pedro morales - Treasurer
Mary Ann Garcia
Telissa Molano
Richard morales
Julio Mendez
Amelia Ramirez
Eva Soliz
Alejandra Urrabazo
STAFF
Rebecca Gomez - Interim Executive Director - info@laredocenterforthearts.org - 956-301-9088
Kassandra Romero - Exhibitions & Collections - kassandra@laredocenterforthearts.org
Samantha Proa - Events & Marketing - events@laredocenterforthearts.org
Luis E. Sanchez - Programming Coordinator
Galia Robinson - Gallery Assistant