TODO Austin February 2019

Celebrate Black History Month

www.todoaustin.com VOLUME X / FEB 2019 Black History Month at the Carver AMF’s Fifth Annual “Feel the Love” Chinese New Year at Chinatown Latinx Youth Conference

PHOTO BY Megan Baker

KLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 / cable 9 klru.org

Y W E 'R E S O H A P P

Learn more at KLRU.org

TO B E

The documentary Won’t You Be Neighbor? airs Feb. 9 at 7 pm

Airing this month

Say It Loud!

KLRU’s Decibel

The Daytripper Live

Part cultural critique, part talk show and part history lesson, Say It Loud will explore Black American culture and its impact on broader communities and trends.

Decibel amplifies stories and issues important to Austin.

On Feb. 15th, the show focuses on the affordability challenges. On Feb. 22, the Decibel team examines aging in Austin.

The Daytripper’s Chet Garner hosts a live mini-marathon of episodes and clips of the show from KLRU’s Studio 6A.

Feb. 15 and 22 at 7:30 pm

Feb. 21 at 7 pm

Coming this February to YouTube and Facebook Watch

KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. PLEASE CONSIDER INVESTING IN KLRU.

C E N T R O U R B A N O HABLA Austin Addressing Homelessness In the first meeting of 2019, Council Members Ann Kitchen, Leslie Pool, Greg Casar, Pio Renteria and Mayor Steve Adler are calling for a pilot project to create a new immediate shelter and support services for people experiencing homelessness.

The resolution (Item 78) directs City departments to develop the project with Austin social service agencies in conjunction with the National Alliance to End Homelessness. The project timeline calls for the immediate shelter and services with the intent of providing a pathway to permanent housing open by September 30, 2019.

“The time for action is now,” said Council Member Kitchen. “Austin is seeing an increasing number of people in our community experiencing homelessness. This Council has made reducing homelessness a top priority and providing immediate shelter and services is a critical action supported by national and local studies. Austin is a great city; no person should have to live under a highway.”

“We need to provide for our most vulnerable residents,” Council Member Pool said. “This pilot won’t solve all of our problems, but it is a key step in implementing our Strategic Housing Blueprint and bringing us closer to a long-term solution for homelessness.”

“The simplest way I’ve heard to express our challenge is this: we have more heads than beds.

That’s why people are forced to seek shelter on the streets,” said Council Member Renteria. “The work this resolution initiates will help us provide the necessary shelter and services folks need to start on a path to permanent housing.”

Mayor Adler added, “The community wants bigger, more effective, and more immediate responses to Austin’s homelessness challenge and the council needs to act.”

“The City Council has clearly made tackling the Austin’s MULTICULTURAL media source for TEN YEARS • Find us at TODOAustin.com

homelessness crisis as one of the top priorities of 2019. This vote, on the first Council meeting of the year, will develop a well-researched report on building more shelter as soon as possible, so that we can fund successful pathways to permanent housing for people experiencing homelessness this year,” said Council Member Casar.

Sustainability projects The City of Austin’s Office of Sustainability announced Jan. 29 that 58 schools will receive funding support to implement 70 sustainability projects that are expected to benefit over 30,000 students. These projects will offer students hands-on learning opportunities and lessons in environmental stewardship, while also providing tangible community benefits to school campuses and their surrounding neighborhoods.

Warrant Amnesty Program From Feb. 1 through 28, Austin Municipal Court and Downtown Community Court will conduct a Warrant Amnesty Program. Individuals who resolve active warrants will have warrant fees waived; however, they must contact the court to take advantage of this program. This program applies only to active cases in front of the Austin Municipal Court or Downtown Austin Community Court.

Sexual assault investigations Council Members Allison Alter, Greg Casar and Ann Kitchen, Mayor Steve Adler, and Mayor Pro Tem Delia Garza released a statement recently regarding a comprehensive, third-party review of the City’s sexual assault investigation policies and practices. “We believe survivors of sexual assault deserve justice and the chance to heal, and we know that too often survivors do not get the justice they deserve. That is why the Chief of Police recently publicly expressed a need for and commitment to a comprehensive third-party review of how the City handles sexual assault cases, and why we are sponsoring a resolution outlining the details of a comprehensive, thirdparty evaluation of our policies and practices regarding these types of cases.”

Volume X, Number 10 PUBLISHER // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton dmdesigninc.com EDITOR //Lesly Reynaga // lesly@todoaustin.com MANAGING/WEB EDITOR // Meredith C. Cox meredith@todoaustin.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Liz Lopez, Monica Peña, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins, Yvonne Lim Wilson

City of Austin announces 2019 Creative Ambassadors

FILM: Capital City Black Film Festival, PJ Raval, MUSIC: Kydd Jones, Montopolis, Greg Gonzalez, Grupo Fantasma, Atlas Maior, MULTIDISCIPLINARY: Usha Akella

The City of Austin Cultural Arts and Music and Entertainment Divisions, part of the Economic Development Department, announced today the selected artists for the City’s 2019 Creative Ambassadors Program. Open to creative professionals across disciplines, the program provides official City designations and small stipends to Austin artists traveling outside of Texas in promotion of their creative projects.

Chosen by an independent selection panel comprised of local artists and arts administrators, the 2019 cohort represents a diverse group of creatives working in a range of artistic disciplines— from filmmaking and poetry to dance, music and more. During their national and/or international travels, the Creative Ambassadors will represent Austin through projects and performances that showcase the variety and caliber of Austin’s creative community. (All recipients will receive a $1000 stipend to assist with costs.) The selected artists will also meet with arts administrators or leaders of key cultural institutions in their destination cities to share information on Austin’s arts and explore possibilities for collaboration or creative exchange.

The selected artists were evaluated on their level of expertise in their chosen discipline, including the number of years they have been working in their artistic area and any awards or recognition they have received for their work. The selection panel also considered how the artists and their proposed projects would support the Creative Ambassador Program goals of enhancing Austin’s global profile as center of creativity; supporting the local creative community; and facilitating dialogue between other regional, national and international arts agencies and their communities. Ambassadors are appointed for a period of one year.

The 2019 selected ambassadors are: VISUAL ARTS: Annalise Gratovich , THEATRE: Hidden Room Theatre, DANCE: Ariel Dance Company, CONTRIBUTING STAFF // Anwuli Chukwurah, Rose Di Grazia, Callie Langford, César E. López Linares, Genoveva Rodriguez PRODUCTION SERVICES // Anthony Garcia CONTRIBUTORS // Alka Bhanot, Rick Carney, Roy Casagranda, Cat Cardenas, Cindy Casares, Lobo Corona, Nora De LaRosa, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Terrance L. Green, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Cossy Hough, Yadira Izquierdo, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Ali Khataw, Ramey Ko, Harish Kotecha, Sonia Kotecha, Julia Lee, Isabel Lopez-Aguilar, Art Markman, Octavio N. Martinez, Cynthia Aashi Morales, Hye June Park, Cristina Parker, Monica Peña, Paul Saldaña, Peter Salovey, Marion Sanchez, Sameer Shah, Blake Shanley, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Rama Tiru, Carola Rivera, Aaron Rochlen, Lesley Varghese

Kydd Jones

Friday, Feb. 22 is the opening of the 15th annual People’s Gallery exhibition at Austin City Hall. The exhibition will feature a wide array of painting, sculpture, drawing and other media by 115 artists from across the Austin area. The public is invited to an opening reception from 6-9 p.m., to view artworks throughout City Hall, meet the participating artists, and to enjoy live music and other festivities. Remarks by Austin Mayor Steve Adler and others will begin at 6:30 p.m. Limited parking is available in the City Hall garage and will be validated; however, visitors are encouraged to walk, bike, or use public transportation.

The People’s Gallery is designed to showcase the work of regional artists and to encourage public dialogue, understanding, and enjoyment of visual art. Each year, the Cultural Arts Division issues a call for artworks to Austin-area artists, galleries, museums, and arts organizations. This year, approximately 1,250 entries were submitted by more than 350 local artists.

This year, the People’s Gallery exhibition will include a special selection of photographs — Bold Beauty Project Texas. Featuring images of Texas women with disabilities by a range of photographers from across the state, the presentation aims to break down the stigma associated with disabilities and encourages all to recognize the beauty of the courageous women featured.

ONLINE EDITION // TODOAustin.com COVER PHOTO // Megan Baker TODO Austin // Multicultural Media for All of Austin. TODO Austin is a free print and online journal for all of Austin highlighting our multicultural heritage and promoting the concept of community in an ethnically diverse city.

Circulation throughout Austin, from the Westside’s Pennybacker Bridge to the Eastside’s Montopolis Bridge.

TODO Austin is published by Spark Awakened Publishing. © 2019 Spark Awakened Publishing. All rights reserved. The views expressed here are the authors and should not be taken to represent those of Spark Awakened Publishing or of any of its associates or partners.

ADVERTISING/SUBMISSIONS/EDITORIAL: info@todoaustin.com, 512.538.4115 TODO AUSTIN // FEB 2019 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03

Why Texas School Districts Should Rethink Closing Schools

By Terrance L. Green

Plans to close schools are often explored when school districts face low enrollment and financial deficits. Closing schools might seem like a logical solution to fiscal shortcomings, but it can actually be more complicated and costlier in reality.

Take, for example, the Austin Independent School District, or AISD. The district just recently proposed to close 12 schools by the 2021-22 school year to address its declining enrollment and financial challenges. I certainly understand why AISD is considering this route, but there are unforeseen, nonfiscal costs to closing schools that districts often miss in the process.

I have studied this topic for the past six years, and there are three unforeseen, nonfiscal costs that the school district leaders across the state should pay close attention to while they consider closing schools.

What districts often underestimate are the costly effects of school closures on the academic outcomes of displaced students and the costly impacts of school closures on local communities.

Plus, any fiscal savings that occur are often only short-term.

Students’ academic outcomes will always be essential to school districts. But the truth is the academic outcomes for students after their schools have been closed are neutral at best, and negative in some cases. Research indicates that some students whose schools are closed experience long-term negative impacts on their reading and math scores.

Also, students whose schools have been closed are absent more often and have weaker relationships with adults and other students at their new schools. These experiences have been shown to occur even when students are able to attend schools with higher academic ratings.

Schools that mainly serve African American and Latino students are closed at higher rates even when predominantly white schools have similar academic standings. In these communities, schools often represent a place of hope, pride and dreams. So, when schools are closed, it not

only affects students, families, teachers and staff members, it also reverberates through the entire community.

Schools are commonly a central community institution in neighborhoods. Therefore, when schools are closed, it can leave a gaping hole, erase racial and cultural histories, and create transportation issues for students and families because some students will ultimately have to travel longer distances outside of their neighborhoods just to attend a school.

The savings after school closures are also often short term. Due to gentrification, housing unaffordability, growing competition from charter schools and many other factors, some of Austin’s schools continue to lose enrollment.

When schools in Texas consistently lose enrollment, it typically creates shortfalls for districts, especially for districts that are considered property rich. So, cutting costs is one of the main reasons that school districts cite for closing schools.

However, research shows that closing schools actually does not result in significant savings in big-city school district budgets unless combined with massive layoffs. The research is not clear on whether school closures result in long-term savings for districts.

Despite shrinking budgets and enrollments, it is imperative that school administrators focus on racial and educational equity to ensure that students who are commonly underserved by schools, because of their race, income, gender, native language or perceived ability, are at the center of any decision to close schools. Equity work requires districts to be creative in their approaches to ever-changing education contexts.

We know district administrators do not take closing schools lightly. But they should pay close attention to these commonly unforeseen, nonfiscal costs as they consider options to address their enrollment and fiscal challenges because research tells us that closing schools may not be the best option in the long run.

Terrance L. Green is an assistant professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy at The University of Texas at Austin.

Stricter work rules for SNAP recipients won’t accomplish goal

By Cossy Hough

The Trump administration recently announced new rules that will tighten restrictions on who can receive SNAP benefits, or food stamps.

The new restrictions curb the ability of states to pursue work requirement waivers for recipients who live in primarily rural areas with high unemployment rates. This means some current recipients may no longer be eligible for SNAP. These policies target the most vulnerable Americans and ignore the long-term, negative effects for short-term cost cutting and political gain. Stricter work requirements for SNAP recipients are not the way to help people “lift themselves out of pervasive poverty.”

SNAP benefits, which can be used to purchase groceries, are part of our nation’s safety-net system for low-income individuals and families.

The average monthly SNAP benefits for one person per month in 2018 was $126. Almost 90 percent of SNAP benefits go to households with a child, an older adult or a person with a disability.

The new restrictions apply mostly to the remaining 10 percent of SNAP recipients, defined as “able-bodied adults without dependents” – an estimated 775,000 individuals. The target group is small but particularly vulnerable, as individuals’ average annual income is about $4,000.

Placing work requirements on SNAP recipients who are able-bodied adults without dependents is not new: They already can receive only three months of benefits every three years, unless they are working at least 20 hours per week.

Up until now, however, states have been able to apply for waivers to this restriction in order to provide SNAP benefits to this specific group of people in areas with very high unemployment rates. Waivers are currently in place for 36 states and counties — about half of the United States.

Trump has said that a strong economy and low unemployment rates should mean that everyone has the ability to work. But he is missing the fact that the strong economy has not impacted everyone equally.

There is still a large percentage of Americans

who live in deep poverty, earning less than $6,000 per year. There are many barriers for these individuals to finding and maintaining consistent employment, including chronic illness that doesn’t meet disability guidelines, criminal histories, homelessness and addiction.

There are also other barriers such as lack of access to child care, transportation and educational opportunities.

Deep poverty affects people of color: 12.6 percent of blacks and 10.1 percent of Hispanics live on less than $6,000 per year compared with 4.3 percent of whites. Unemployment is also higher for people of color: In December 2017, the unemployment rate was 4.9 percent for Hispanics and 6.8 for blacks compared with 3.7 percent for whites.

In December, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue wrote, “A central theme of the Trump administration has been to expand prosperity for all Americans, which includes helping people lift themselves out of pervasive poverty.” In reality, though, the added work requirements are more likely to bring results similar to the welfare reform of the 1990s: SNAP enrollment may decrease, but the number of people in deep poverty may actually increase.

Funding and implementing effective jobtraining and education programs is a better start. Combining job training with programs to address essential needs such as affordable housing, and the consistently higher rates of unemployment and poverty for people of color could make even a bigger impact.

Increasing the minimum wage would also contribute to lowering the number of lowincome, working Americans who currently rely on SNAP to achieve food security for their families.

The Trump administration needs to take a step back from the new rules and examine the dynamics of poverty and make informed decisions. That is, unless the goal of the Trump administration is to reduce the number of people eligible for SNAP benefits regardless of the ability of recipients to find and hold consistent employment. If that’s the goal, the administration is literally taking the food out of the mouths of our most vulnerable.

Cossy Hough is a clinical associate professor in the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Austin.

NPR photo

Texas Tribune photo 04 TODO AUSTIN // FEB 2019 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

Chinese New Year Celebration Presented by Austin Moonflower PAG. Saturday, Feb. 9, 5 - 9 p.m. Celebrate Chinese New Year with modern and traditional Chinese music, dance, Peking Opera, gongfu, qipao fashion show, and more. Performances and lottery drawings begin at 7pm. Chinese food samples and free photo booth open at 5:30 p.m. Organized by Austin Moonflower Performing Arts Group and presented in collaboration with the City of Austin’s Asian American Resource Center. This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department. Tickets are $10.

Little Seedlings Storytime: China. Friday, Feb 15, 10 a.m. Explore Chinese culture through storytelling and crafts! This month features Bringing In the New Year by Grace Lin and Legend of the Milky Way by Jeanne M. Lee. Free w/ RSVP. AARC Summer Camp Registration Opens Saturday, Feb 16, 10 a.m. Eight one-week camps with different themes to practice mindfulness and explore creative expressions through science, food, dance, exercise, music, and crafts of Asia! Ages: 6 - 10. Families will have the option to pick and choose weekly camp sessions that suit busy summer schedules.

Sábados en Familia: Lucha Libre! (Mexican Wrestling). Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Austin Central Library. Sábados en Familia provides free cultural art activities by the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center. This free family activity will explore the theme of Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling). Participants will engage in bilingual story time and hands-on art projects. Costumes encouraged! Free for all ages. Questions? Email macceducation@austintexas.gov.

Los Bohemios Perdidos Present: Cúpidos Perdidos. Monday, Feb. 14, 7:30 - 9 p.m. Let Bohemios Perdidos serenade you this Valentine’s Day with a night of romantic Latin music including Boleros, Bossa Nova, Son Cubano, Tango and more. With guest musicians, Carlos and Javier will prepare a night to remember.

We hope to see you there!

Bronze Band. Sunday, Feb. 17, 2 - 3 p.m. Groove with the sounds and dig deep into the roots of Chicanx music and take part in building your community’s Bronze Band! A group of local seasoned musicians dance music known as “Musica Chicana,” a blend of Tex-Mex, Chicanx rhythm and blues, countrywestern swing, cumbias, and oldies. Come learn the material and practice with the band! For more information, email Robert Ojeda at Rrojeda2002@yahoo.com.

Quad-Centennial (1619-2019) Observance. The first African American captives arrived in English-speaking North America at Jamestown, Virginia in 1619. Programs at the Carver during 2019 observe this 400-year anniversary.

Angela Medearis: For The Love of The Children Exhibit.

Saturday, Feb. 2, 10 a.m. through Saturday, Jun. 22. This exhibit features selections from over 30 publications that highlight her contributions to children’s literature.

Let Freedom Sing! Saturday, Feb. 2, 2 - 4 p.m. Join us in a community sing-along as we continue our Black History Month Celebration! FREE and open to the public.

Black Composers Concert. Saturday, Feb. 9, 4 - 6 p.m. The Carver partners with the Austin Chamber Music Center for an annual celebration of classical and current Black composers. RSVP by calling 512-974 4926. FREE and open to the public.

HBCU Day and Black History Month Kid’s Day! Saturday, Feb. 16, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Historically Black Colleges and Universities have become the foundations of so much of the African American story!

The Carver celebrates these pillars of strength with a college fair.

Black History Month Kid’s Day is complete with crafts, storytelling and activities to learn more about Black Heritage.

La Huella Magistral Exhibition includes a tribute to Maestro Ernesto de Soto, the first Mexican American Master Printer in the country “La Huella Magistral” is Mexic-Arte Museum’s current exhibition of the Consejo Gráfico’s impressive artist portfolio that pays tribute to master printmakers. For this exhibition, the museum added artworks from the Permanent Collection that recognize additional master printers. It is fitting to highlight Ernesto de Soto, the first Mexican American Master Printer.

For Latino and Latina printmakers and art historians, Ernesto de Soto is known as the first Mexican American master printer and producer of an impressive series of artworks. Ernest Frank de Soto (October 26, 1923 – December 29, 2014) was a master printer, who specialized in American and Mexican prints during his career. De Soto was the first Master Printer of Mexican descent in the U.S. He established and directed his own printing workshop, the de Soto Workshop, for over 27 years. De Soto was also the first American printmaker to establish an international relationship with Mexican artists and had a lasting impact on printing in the United States.

Ernest F. de Soto was born in Tucson, Arizona.

An eighth-generation Tucsonan, de Soto left home after high school to study at Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles when he was seventeen.

While in Los Angeles, he discovered the art of lithography under the master printer, Lynton R. Kistler. He was drafted into the Army Engineers-his background in art landed him work as a camouflage technician. After serving in the South Pacific, de Soto returned to Los Angeles briefly and then used money from the G.I. Bill to fund his studies in Guadalajara, Mexico at the Escuela de Bellas Artes. De Soto also attended the Escuela de Belles Artes in San Miguel de Allende, where he learned fresco painting. While a student in Mexico, he also was an apprentice under David Alfaro Siqueiros, a founder of the Mexican Muralism movement.

His education also includes work at a number of other institutions, among them the University of Illinois, Urbana, where he earned a B.F.A. degree in 1961 and the California Institute of the Arts, Los Angeles. In 1965, he received a grant from the Ford Foundation to work, learn and experiment at Tamarind Lithography Workshop in Los Angeles for two full years. After two years of apprenticeship, he was awarded the title of Master Printer.

“A Master Printer is one who has learned every possible way to make a lithograph: how to tackle a problem and solve it,” he stated. “A printmaker

Ernesto de Soto, The Critic, litograph, 2010

should be able to prepare the work in such a way that long editions, sometimes up to 200 can be printed. This requires special skill, especially in lithography, because the higher the number of impressions, the greater the effort and knowledge needed to prepare for a long print run. The Master Printer also must be inventive in helping the artist to achieve any special effects he wishes, and above all, a Master Printer cannot make mistakes.”

In 1967, shortly after leaving Tamarind, de Soto became co-founder and Master Printer of Collectors Press Lithography Workshop in San Francisco. In 1972 he became partners of Editions Press with Jose Luis Cuevas. He remained with

Collectors Press until the founding of his own shop in 1975, the Ernest F. de Soto Workshop, located in San Francisco. The de Soto Workshop “is known for specializing in contemporary Latin American and American lithographs.”

“La Huella Magistral: Homage to Master Printmakers” features works from 19 printmakers, each contributing an individual print to the limited edition portfolio. Each artist pays tribute to a master printmaker who mentored, taught, or inspired them and contributed artwork in their mentor’s preferred medium or recognizable style.

More information at mexic-artemuseum.org.

TODO AUSTIN // FEB 2019 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05

AUSTINTEXAS.GOV/PARKS

hear a great story

Harry Edohoukwa Q&A

By Lesly Reynaga

Austin’s hip-hop scene is shining a light on new talent, and Harry Edohoukwa’s abilities as a singer/ songwriter/rapper make him one of Austin’s most promising players. He shared some insights with TODO Austin about his background and current projects.

TODO Austin: Please tell us about you--your background and family history; your upbringing and how you fell into a music path “I was born and raised in Dallas, TX but both my parents are from Nigeria. I was raised in the church, my parents were in the choir and they forced me into it when i was 11. I hated it at the time. Music was just a part of everything growing up. Every family function there’s reggae blaring. My uncle Eli is one of the reasons i’m doing music. I remember one thanksgiving “House of Exile” by Lucky Dube played and he shot up from his seat, closed his eyes and swayed. It was as if he was crying with his body. I don’t remember if it brought literal tears to my eyes but it felt like it. It was beautiful. From then on i associated music with feeling. From then on i knew i wanted to feel that and i wanted others to feel that.”

TODO Austin: Was there ever a defining moment that led you to fully dive into your music career?

“I went to college on a track scholarship to study pre law. Within the first few weeks i quit track and changed my major. I just knew if i kept going down the pleasing-my-parents path i was gonna go mad.”

TODO Austin: This is always a tricky one, but help the audience understand your work by describing your musical concept and genre(s) “It’s really hard for me to describe my music, i don’t think of it in terms of genre or anything specific.

I’m just trying to get a point across and using the various “genres” i’ve been exposed to, that i connect with, to do so. I usually explain myself as a house. The master bedroom is reggae, the guest rooms are hip-hop and R&B, and all the

Upcoming events: February 9 Singin’ in the Rain— film with orchestra Austin symphony’s Butler pops at Long center’s Dell Hall, 8:00 p.m. peter Bay, conductor February 22 & 23 brahms’ Requiem masterworks series at Long center’s Dell Hall, 8:00 p.m.

With conspirare symphonic choir craig Hella Johnson, guest conductor peter Bay, conductor

c o n c e rt sponsors

Singin’ in the Rain

s i n g i n ’ i n t He r A i n : Wat k i n s i n s u r a n c e G ro u p B r A H ms R e qu i e m: b b Va c o m pa s s

BrAHms’ Requiem

all artists, programs, and dates subject to change without notice.

bathrooms are pysche-rock/singer/songwriter facets of me. If the beat is like the ice cream man jingle, creating a track is like opening the front door. Whichever kids run out are the influences on the track. I hope that makes sense.”

TODO Austin: Who are your artistic heroes and influences?

“Uncle Eli, Beres Hammond, Lucky Dube, Bob Marley, Kid Cudi, Kanye West (I don’t wanna argue with you) Jay Z, Jim Morrison, Justin Vernon, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, to name a few.”

TODO Austin: How does your ancestry influence your lyrics and your work as a whole?

“It’s not something i think about. I feel it in my bones. I feel my roots when i say certain things, and in the way i think about certain things. When i speak of freedom and love especially.”

TODO Austin: In your opinion, what are the strengths and weaknesses of the Austin hip-hop community?

“I’ve been here for about 4 years and i feel like the growth is great. I feel like the city is taking interest and starting to back it. People at KUTX’s the breaks and EQ Austin make me feel like the city cares about what we’re doing. This is just the starting point though. There’s a lot of work to be done but i feel like the infrastructure here wants to start doing the work and that’s all i can ask for.”

TODO Austin: Do you have a project in the works and when should the public expect your next release?

Download the app:

Connect:

Download the app:

Connect:

“I do. I don’t wanna speak too much on it though because with everyday it changes. I can say that my next single is coming this month [February]!”

tickets/info:

meDiA sponsors

Mike Manewitz PHOTO

Download the app:

Connect:

Download the app:

Connect:

Download the app:

Connect:

(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org

Drew Taylor PHOTO

Catch Harry at Empire Control Room Friday, Feb. 15 at KUTX’s Love lockdown. After that, keep an eye open for a SXSW showcase.

TODO AUSTIN // FEB 2019 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 07

Music news from the Austin Music Office UPCOMING AMPLIFIED SOUND COMPATIBILITY MEETING The Music & Entertainment Division will host a Community Engagement Meeting to discuss Amplified Sound Compatibility from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 2 at LZR, 612 W. 4th St. The engagement meeting is the culmination of suggestions previously solicited by staff to address amplified

sound compatibility issues. Four key themes, identified through previous survey and stakeholder engagement efforts, will be deliberated further including Agent of Change; Compliance & Enforcement; Sound Standards, Monitoring & Mitigation; and Stakeholder Partnerships.

In addition to the Amplified Sound Compatibility Engagement Meeting, the City has launched a SpeakUp Austin online feedback survey to gain more insight from stakeholders and residents on the recommendations collected to date. The online survey hopes to also encourage new stakeholder involvement with added proposed solutions for consideration.

Input provided from all engagement forums and a final report will be presented to the Austin City Council in the spring.

KUTX’s The Breaks presents ‘Love Lockdown’ Feb. 15

08 TODO AUSTIN // FEB 2019 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

2019 SPRING FESTIVAL SEASON Applications for special events being planned during Spring Festival 2019 (March 8 - March 17) must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday February 8.

up once again to declare February Love

The 2019 Spring Festival Season is expected to be even busier than usual. The sooner applicants submit a completed ACE application for special events, the better. Get started with the Spring Festival Planning at a Glance Guide that has answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Special Event permitting process, then visit the ACE event planning page for details on permit deadlines, fees, and a link to the ACE application portal. More at atxmusic.org.

On February 19, the Austin Music

Austin Music Foundation is proud to announce the return of “Feel The Love,” now on its fifth year. The “Feel The Love” Music Industry Expo provides a forum for professionals in the Austin music industry to connect with area music support organizations, learn about available community resources and network with their peers — all on one night, under one roof.

Malik

The event is focused on the R&B and pop and will feature homegrown talents that are making a substantial impact on the scene and its respective sound. The lineup includes Austin-raised soul singer Alesia Lani, who combines a soulful voice with electric performances; Dallas-native Harry Edohoukwa, whose caliber of onstage emotion and insightful lyrics takes fans on a rhythmic journey; Austin360 January Artist of the Month Lesly Reynaga, who blends catchy beats with powerful lyricism; pop powerhouse Parallelephants; rapper/producer Malik; and Venezuelan DJ Joaq.NThe event will be hosted

LOVE AUSTIN MUSIC MONTH

AMF’s ‘Feel The Love’ returns for a fifth year

The city of Austin’s hip-hop, R&B, and pop communities are finding themselves in a renaissance period, garnering more notoriety and opportunity within the city limits. In appreciation of these artists’ creativity, hard work on their craft and building the scene from the ground up, KUTX’S The Breaks is presenting ‘Love Lockdown’ on Friday, Feb. 15 at Empire Control Room.

Lesly Reynaga by Mark Guerra

Stakeholders are welcome to park at Austin City Hall, 301 W. 2nd St., or use your favorite parking app to attend the meeting.

by Austin’s #1 hip-hop and R&B radio show, The Breaks, who have selflessly merged both national and homegrown acts on their Saturday night radio show. The hosts, Confucius and Fresh, not only want to highlight the hottest artists in the city, but also to bring various pieces of our community together, uniting in appreciation of Austin’s vibrant music community.

Committed to the advancement of our music community, Love Lockdown will donate 25 percent of each ticket sale in benefit of Boys & Girls Club of Austin, aimed at helping fund after school programs for Austin’s youth and future.

Additionally, for each ticket sold, two trees will be planted in Madagascar through The Eden Reforestation Project.

The event will also feature drink specials for the evening celebrating the music and The Breaks, curated and featuring Treaty Oak Distillery spirits.

On Tuesday, Feb. 19, join AMF and the many organizations who are committed to supporting the long-term viability, growth, well-being, and visibility for Austin’s creative class. The event runs from 7 - 9 p.m. and will be held at Emo’s, 2015 East Riverside Drive.

Area not-for-profit music support organizations listed on the Texas Music Office online directory are eligible to register as expo participants. For-profit music or other businesses do not qualify for registration as a participating organization, but are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Austin Music Foundation (AMF) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to strengthen, connect and elevate the local music industry and community with innovative programs that empower music professionals and music businesses within Austin’s creative economy. Austin Music Foundation offers free education specifically tailored to today’s music business climate. With expert panels, consultations, mentoring and networking events, AMF’s programs provide the

The Music & Entertainment Division, Austin Music Foundation and KUTX have teamed Austin Music Month, and we want you to be part of it, too! Throughout February, get out and support your music scene.

Foundation will host its fifth annual “Feel the Love” Music Industry Expo from 7 to 9 p.m., Emo’s.

Music lovers can see a roundup of area shows being highlighted during “Love Austin Music Month” at http:// kutx.org/austin-music-experience/ loveaustinmusicmonth.

necessary tools and opportunities to help the Austin music industry succeed. Since 2002, AMF has helped over 16,000 musicians and music industry professionals and remains committed to ensuring that Austin’s creative class and music industry thrive.

This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department.

The event is free to attend and open to the public. Please RSVP, and stay tuned for full event info and more announcements. More information at austinmusicfoundation.org.

To Do Música

1996 hit song from Tupac, and “Bonnie & Clyde 03” from Jay-Z featuring Beyonce, released in 2002. The single is available on all digital music platforms and the video on YouTube.

Appearances and shows will be planned for later this year, according to states released to the online outlet, Tejano Nation. Read more about Cinco Doce and Monica Saldivar on Facebook.

-----Atlas Maior released a new single, “Chamber of Mirrors,” the first release from the forthcoming album “Riptide” to be released Spring 2019.

Featured guest violinist is Roberto Riggio (Atash, Fairuz, Youssou N’Dour) on this one, joining Joshua Thomson - alto saxophone; Gary Calhoun James - double bass; Charlie Lockwood – oud; Ted Camat – drums. Available on digital platforms.

-----Central Texas vocalists can try out for the chance to perform the National Anthem at an upcoming Round Rock Express game. Auditions will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Feb. 4 for individuals and groups to perform during the team’s 20th anniversary season. Those who are unable

By Liz Lopez

BROWN

SOUND

NEWS

The City’s 2019 Creative Ambassadors Program selected artists were announced. The 2019 music ambassadors are Kydd Jones, Montopolis, Greg Gonzalez (from Grupo Fantasma) and Atlas Maior.

Creative Ambassadors will represent Austin through projects and performances that showcase the variety and caliber of Austin’s creative community.

The artists will also meet with arts administrators or leaders of key cultural institutions in their destination cities to share information on Austin’s arts and explore possibilities for collaboration or creative exchange.

-----Paula Maya performs during “1st Thursdays Bossa Nova” on Feb. 7. The award winning Brazilian keyboardist, singer, songwriter will perform a collection of the greatest bossa nova songs, both in English and Portuguese from 9 p.m. to midnight at the Milonga Room, 1201 E. 6th St. On Feb. 8, Paula will be performing at the Serie Project, Inc. Speaker Series, featuring artist Liliana Wilson as the invited artist. Event begins at 6:30 p.m. and Paula takes the stage at 7:30. 901 Vargas Rd. Austin Facebook/Serie Project Inc. paulamaya.com.

-----Pilar Andujar is back from Spain and in Austin as part of a tour of the U.S. on behalf of her debut album, “Andro,” which has been released internationally as La Gypsy from Spain. She has performed with Atash as a vocalist/flamenco dancer. Her show in Austin is a special double bill as La Gypsy (8:30 p.m.) and Atash (10:15 p.m.) at One2One Bar, 1509 S Lamar Blvd, Ste 600.

-----Rosie Flores will release a new album “Simple Case of the Blues” on Feb. 15! Visit her website to preorder and listen to a preview. rosieflores.com.

-----Ady Hernandez has announced on his Facebook page this week that he has written “another song I wrote for my Pops and I to rock on together” and it should be done by March. Visit his social media pages for updates.

-----Frederico7 will have an album launch party for his debut album, “Exótico Americano” that is set for release on Feb. 23. The album is an amalgamation of Frederico’s diverse background and experiences living in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina before setting his roots in Austin. “Exotico Americano” fuses AfroBrazilian rhythms with American Funk, Soul, Dub and Psychedelia. The launch party will include special guests 9 p.m. - Maracatú Texas; 9.30 p.m.

- Manolo Black; 10 p.m. - Cilantro Boombox; 11.15 p.m. - Frederico7; 12.30 p.m. - Kiko Villamizar and Manolo Black in between sets. Saturday, Febr. 23 at Empire Control Room, 606 E. 7th St. -----SEFO (Jose Barragan) released a new single, “Truth or Consequences” and is available in all the digital stores and streaming services. On Facebook, he listed Tom Brechtlein on drums, Ivan Barrera on

Pilar Andujar

bass, Carlos Sainz as the sound engineer and Deuce Wanier who created the video. “Thank you all for your help. Of course, I couldn’t have made it without you guys. Your talent is overwhelming and I´m honored to have you as my friends.”

-----Mia Garcia recently released “Te Quiero” (AIM Records) with a lyric video that is available on Digital platforms. She will be performing at the 2nd Annual Brave Fest, a community celebration of love, diversity, inclusion, and multi-culturalism.

Mia performs from 4:15-4:50 p.m. at this familyfriendly event on Feb. 10, 2-8 p.m. All ticket proceeds and event sponsorships will be used for BRAVE Communities’ 2019 events and programs, including scholarships for students to go on educational and cultural trips to Montgomery, Selma, and Birmingham, AL. miamusictx.com.

-----Austin-based Cinco Doce released a song/video, featuring Monica Saldivar, the Austin Tejano Music Coalition’s 2015 Tejano Idol winner. The lead single is a bilingual cumbia remake of two hip hop songs, “Me and My Girlfriend,” the

Rosie Flores VALERIE FREMIN PHOTO

to attend open auditions can submit video recordings via email to srichards@rrexpress.com and check the Round Rock Express website for updates and more details.

-----The “Love Your Neighbor in Central East Austin” event will feature a performance by Ex Romantika at the Benefit & Silent Auction for Blackshear Bridge, Sunday, Feb. 10, 4-7 p.m. at Tamale House East, 1707 E. 6th St. 78702. Buy your ticket for $10-100 or donate at the door.

-----The Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation is host to a fundraiser for scholarship endowments. Dance to the music by the Tamayo - Borrero Orquesta.

This is a great opportunity to hear Austin’s fine musicians, Jorge Tamayo and Felipe “El Tiburon” Borrero at this gala on Saturday, Feb. 9 at the Omni Hotel Southpark.

RECOMMENDED SHOWS A tribute to the Cumbia made popular in El Salvador during the decades of the 70s, 80s and 90s, “Especial de Cumbia Salvadoreña,” will be the Mauricio Callejas band from 8:30 - 9:30 p.m.; Patois (Reggae) at 10 p.m.; Maracatu TX (Brazilian percussion ensemble) and the Sahara Allstars (psychodelic afrobeat) follow. Free dinner buffet.

Saturday, Feb. 2. Doors at 8 p.m., Cover $10 at the door. Sahara Lounge 1413 Webberville Rd. Visit saharalounge.com.

-----“Weekly Roda de Choro” invites the public to take your instruments and charts to join them at their weekly Sunday afternoon show from 3:30 – 5 p.m. Play tunes like Andre do Sapato novo, Benzingo, carinhoso, noites cariocas, cochichando, doce de coco, santa morena and more... Boteco Food Truck, 1209 E. 6th Street.

Visit their Facebook page for details--Roda de Choro de Austin TX. -----Enjoy the Cuban dance beats with Rey Arteaga on vocals and congas, Jose Galeano on timbales, Gordie Johnson on bass, Russell Scanlon on guitar, Raul Vallejo on trombone, and Carmelo Torres on bongó. Dance class is at 7:30 p.m., with DJ Trems between sets, and post-show.

Friday, Feb. 8 -Doors 9:30 p.m. and show 10 p.m. - 12:40 a.m. Admission $10. For details, visit esquinatangoaustin.com.

-----The Oscar Ornelas full band show in Austin will be February 9th at The Skylark Lounge. oscarornelas.com.

-----Austin’s La Frenetika will be performing a family free show with no admission at Central Market, 4001 N. Lamar, Austin on Saturday, February 16, from 6 - 9 p.m.

-----J.R. Gomez Y Los Conjunto Bandits’s upcoming shows will be at Cactus Nights in Round Rock on February 2; Billy Bob’s in Ft. Worth on Feb. 9, and the San Antonio Rodeo Budlight Cantina Stage on Feb. 23. Visit the band’s Facebook stage for details.

TODO AUSTIN // FEB 2019 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 09

Austin Film Society and Austin Asian American Film Festival present series of films by Lee Chang-Dong Born in Korea in 1954, Lee Chang-Dong first made an impact as a novelist before turning to film in 1983. His films, which often feature closely observed, novelistic details, have made him popular both in and outside his native country.

His recent film “Burning” was a breakthrough in the U.S., topping many prominent “best of 2018” lists, and the film inspired Austin Film Society to look back at some of his earlier works. This series is presented in collaboration with the Austin Asian American Film Festival.

Four selected dates between February 7 - 28 will highlight various works by Lee Chang-Dong. All events in the series will be held at AFS Cinema, 6406 N. Interstate-35 Frontage Road #3100.

Ticket prices range from $9 to $11.25, with discounts for AFS members.

THURSDAY, FEB. 7, 7 P.M. - “OASIS” Lee Chang-Dong, South Korea, 2002, 35mm, 133 min. In Korean with English Subtitles.

This acclaimed film is about a romance between a mentally handicapped man and a woman with

Unity within the community leads to business growth

By Hye June Park

The number of black-owned businesses in Austin is growing. February is Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of this community in U.S. history. To celebrate Black History Month, Economic Growth Business Incubator, a nonprofit in Austin that helps business owners succeed, is recognizing two clients: Selam International Mart & Café and The Living History Foundation. The first brings Ethiopian food to the Austin community, while the latter helps youth shape their identity and learn from their past.

Sitotaw Degefaw, one of the owners of Selam International Mart & Café on North Lamar, sells imported Ethiopian and East African foods and spices in his grocery store. Visitors can explore East African culture while enjoying traditional Ethiopian food right here in Austin. The shop is a place where the East African community can come and enjoy their native Ethiopian culture, as well as a place for other communities to try something new in a friendly environment.

Degefaw’s favorite part of owning his business is 10 TODO AUSTIN // FEB 2019 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

cerebral palsy. As they draw closer, we see the world closing in on them.

TUESDAY, FEB. 12, 7 P.M. - SECRET SUNSHINE Lee Chang-Dong, South Korea, 2007, DCP, 142 min. In Korean with English Subtitles.

Lee Chang-Dong achieved both critical and commercial success with this story of a recently widowed young woman who tries to begin a new life in her late husband’s hometown.

THURSDAY, FEB. 21, 7 P.M. - POETRY Lee Chang-Dong, South Korea, 2010, 35mm, 139 min. In Korean with English Subtitles.

As a grandmother in her 60s begins coping with memory loss and family problems, she finds solace and meaning in poetry. Writer-director Lee Chang-Dong (Burning) avoids the pitfalls of sentimentality and mawkishness as he creates a work of intensity and rare beauty.

THURSDAY, FEB. 28, 7 P.M. - BURNING Lee Chang-Dong, South Korea, 2018, DCP, 148 min. In Korean with English Subtitles.

A romantic rivalry between a poor, love-struck young man and an older rich man for the heart of a creative and vibrant woman takes some intense turns in Lee Chang-Dong’s riveting adaptation of a Haruki Murakami story.

Founded in 1985 by filmmaker Richard Linklater, the Austin Film Society’s mission is to empower our community to make, watch and love creative media. AFS curates and screens hundreds of meeting new people and having a place where his community can gather.

He started his business with just an idea. He went to EGBI with the idea of starting a slaughterhouse for a particular type of beef important to Ethiopian food. EGBI helped him to understand the governmental regulations around processing meat, and as his idea got better defined, he had the opportunity to purchase a grocery mart that had space to add a butcher shop for his specialty meat. Degefaw worked with Joni Foster, EGBI’s Program Director, through one-on-one coaching sessions.

“She [Foster] connected me to the supplier that slaughters the specialty meat according to my country’s custom,” Degefaw said. “She worked with me side by side to make my dream happen.”

He continues to visit with her once a month to talk about this business. More information on Selam International Mart & Café is available at selamcafe.com.

The Living History Foundation was founded in February 2018 when the first group of people sat around the table and called the meeting to order. In the past year, the organization has received its 501(C)(3) status from the IRS and presented three history programs in Central Texas. In the words of Edgar B. Garza, the Board President of Living History Foundation, “The mission of the Foundation is to inspire

repertory, international and art house films annually at the AFS Cinema; delivers financial support to Texas filmmakers through the AFS Grant; operates Austin Studios, a 20-acre production facility, and Austin Public, a space for our city’s diverse media makers to train and collaborate. Through its award-winning after school classes, intern training, and the Ed Lowry Student Film program, AFS encourages media and film literacy and provides a place for youth of all backgrounds to learn the craft of filmmaking and gain access to tools for media production.

By hosting premieres, special events, local and international industry events and the Texas Film Awards, AFS shines the national spotlight on Texas filmmakers while connecting Austin and

Texas to the wider film community. To learn more about the AFS Cinema or about Austin Film Society’s mission visit austinfilm.org.

children and the young-at-heart to learn about the contributions people of color made in the building of this great nation from the time before the first Europeans to the present day.”

It is the first time for many of the board members to be a part of a non-profit organization, but EGBI meets with directors a couple of times per month to help them put everything together.

The board gathered in December 2018 to make plans for 2019, and Joni Foster facilitated the conversation. Keep a lookout for one of the 12 living history programs the organization will offer in the months to come.

“History is an important part of our personal lives,” Garza continued. “It is the key to understanding who we are as humans. The youth will ultimately develop their own perspective on human life and society. One that is based on stories about ordinary people just like the youth that are in the program.

They will also learn from ordinary people lessons in courage, leadership, and constructive protest.”

The mission of the Austin Asian American Film Festival (AAAFF) is to tell Asian and Asian American stories via media arts and help Asian Americans explore opportunities in cinema.

We do this by showcasing the best in new Asian and Asian American cinema at our annual film festival, and through year-round screenings and special events. AAAFF is a registered 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.

Tickets available at austinfilm.org.

EGBI provides training, coaching, and support to aspiring and existing business owners who face barriers of language, finances, and knowledge. For more information, visit egbi.org.

CELEBRATING DIVERSIT Y

BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin

Austin Fashion Week

Huston-Tillotson University presents “Sister Moses: The Story of Harriet Tubman” on February 8 - 9, 7:30 p.m.

History is brought to life on stage through movement, dramatic narration, African drums, melodious string sounds, and traditional spirituals. For tickets and more

Breaking Barriers Latinx Youth Conference

information, visit sistermosesdance.org.

Carnaval in Austin is one of the biggest Brazilian Carnaval

ESB-MACC

celebrations outside Brazil. Brasileiro-style samba,

Breaking Barriers Latinx Youth Conference is a day of art, music, and community dedicated to youth, presented by the teens of the ESB-MACC Caminos Teen Leadership program. On February 9, from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., teens will collaborate with emerging artists and cultural activists to facilitate exploration and self-expression around the theme of “breaking barriers.”

Come immerse yourself in this public celebration of

The purpose of the conference is to create a safe space for teens to share their thoughts and express their feelings in a teen-centered environment. This event is uniquely created BY teens, FOR teens. The day’s activities are run by teens from the Caminos program. They will be addresses the theme of breaking barriers with questions such as: What barriers do we as Latinx youth face? How do we break those barriers?

How can we build resilience and empower our youth? How do we encourage each other to share our voices? What can we offer each other to help us succeed at our personal, professional, and artistic goals?

costumes, and wild fun can be seen in the heart of Texas.

Brazilian culture on Feb. 9 at the Palmer Events Center.

For ticket information, visit sambaparty.com.

The Austin Symphony presents “Singin’ in the Rain: Film with Orchestra” Saturday, Feb. 9, 8 p.m. The film masterpiece comes to life with your Austin Symphony Orchestra accompanying the award-winning on-screen performances by Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds. Don’t miss this beloved film, live on the projected screen like you have never seen before! More at austinsymphony.org.

Chinatown Austin invites the community to celebrate the year of the pig this Chinese New Year. Saturday, Feb. 16 from 1 - 11 p.m. will see plenty of musical entertainment.

The party continues Sunday, Feb. 17 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. for Lions and Dragons, firecrackers and all kinds of family

Conference activities will include screen printing, an open mic stage, self-published zines, mural painting, mosaic art, and teen-facilitated discussions. There will be food trucks and exhibitor tables on-site.

fun! More information at chinatownaustin.com.

The schedule includes a live music performance by the Tiarra Girls at 5pm. This event is free for any teen ages 13-19 who wants to connect with others through art and culture. RSVP not required to attend, but those who RSVP will be guaranteed a spot.

live music, finish line festival and beer garden. For ticket

Attendees must bring a blank t-shirt for screen-printing. Snacks are provided, and it is recommended to bring $10 for lunch at on-site food trucks. Please come willing to share your voice. To participate in the open-mic, bring any needed instruments. Free parking is available on-site. Students may earn volunteer credit at their school for attending if they get pre-authorization from their school and bring any necessary documentation for a staff signature.

inspiration. This multidisciplinary art festival showcases

Adults who would like to participate may contact Frederico.Geib@austintexas.gov to volunteer at the event or observe during certain times.

Austin Marathon & Half Marathon attracts nearly 20,000 participants from around the world. The 2019 race will be held on Sunday, Feb. 17. Events include a 5K, info, visit youraustinmarathon.com OUTsider Festival on February 20 – 24 brings together Austin’s LGBTQI community for five days of creation and film, performance art, music, visual art, and more. The occasion unites queer artist, audiences and scholars from around the globe to exchange ideas, transcend boundaries and experience art. outsiderfest.org The Oyster Festival, on Saturday, Feb. 23, is an annual hit among locals and visitors alike. Come enjoy the different ways to eat oysters with live Cajun and “newgrass” music on the lawn. General admission tickets are $60, and VIP tickets are available for $115. For more info, visit austinoysterfestival.com.

By Monica Peña

Attention Austin Fashionistas! Start marking your calendars now for Austin Fashion Week 2019, taking place Feb. 15 - 24. As part of this year’s program, there are three showcases attendees will not want to miss.

Thursday. Feb. 21. The BERNINA Fashion Fund Showcase will feature 20 emerging designers with businesses younger than three years. BERNINA and Fashion X will crown the 2019 BERNINA Fashion Fund winner along with a live audience vote. In addition, there will be collections by past BERNINA Fashion Fund winners and a special show from Project Runway All Star Amanda Valentine featuring breast cancer survivors from Ballet Austin’s Pink Pilates program. A portion of proceeds will benefit Ballet Austin.

Friday, Feb. 22. Celebrate Texas features a Texas-only showcase of some of the most amazing brands in the Lone Star State. Approximately 15 designers will show 10 looks each — each representing their city and Texas region. Clients from the Arc of the Capital Area with intellectual and physical disabilities will be featured as they enhance the Texas spirit of inclusion. A portion of proceeds benefitting the Arc of the Capital Area.

Saturday, Feb. 23. Fashion X is proud to bring a handful of designers to Austin from Adelaide and South Australia for Moda X Australia. Moda X Australia honors 2019 Style Setter Lesa Rossick with a portion of proceeds benefitting Relay for Life.

Part of Austin Fashion Week will also include Shop for Good. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit area retail shops to fill their closet and home knowing that a portion of every purchase will benefit The Kindness Campaign. Keep an eye out for the list of participating retailers by visiting the AFW web site.

Individual event tickets start at $35. More details about individual events, tickets and more can be found at austin.fashionx.co.

TODO AUSTIN // FEB 2019 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 11

Art and language have always been inextricably linked; the artistic fascination with th e w r itten wor d s pa n s con tin e n ts an d c u ltu re s. W ords/ Ma tte r offers an innovative perspective on how Latin American artists have explored the connections between visual art and written language since the early decades of the twentieth century. Drawn primarily from the Blanton’s extensive Latin American art collection, the exhibition highlights key moments in the synthesis of words and art and examines its use to communicate personal, poetic, or political messages. Words/Matter features artists from Mexico to Uruguay working in a broad range of media, celebrating the subversive aesthetics of artists’ books, painted poems, political posters, and conceptual art. Make your plans to see it soon.

The University of Texas at Austin / blantonmuseum.org / @blantonmuseum / #WordsMatterATX Image: Carlos Amorales, Typographical Patterns for Mass Reproduction, 2013, oil on canvas, 27 7/8 x 27 7/8 in., Blanton Museum of Art, The University of Texas at Austin, Gift of Diane and Bruce Halle, 2018

February 2019 AUSTINTEXAS.GOV/MUSEUMSANDCULTURE

FEB 1

6-9 PM

FEB 16

10 AM-3 PM

George Washington Carver Museum Black History Month: Opening Ceremony!

George Washington Carver Museum Black History Month: HBCU & Kids Day

The Opening Ceremony highlights the national theme of Black Migration, complete with music & community awards, with Keynote Speaker, Dr. G. Vincent. Free!

Join us for the Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU) with a College Fair .

The Kid's Day portion includes crafts, arts & story-telling. Free!

1165 Angelina St., 78702 austintexas.gov/carvermuseum FEB 2

2-4 PM

1165 Angelina St., 787020 austintexas.gov/carvermuseum FEB 20

7 PM

George Washington Carver Museum Black History Month: Let Freedom Sing!

Dougherty Art Center "The Gospel According to Andre"

Join us in a community sing-along as we continue our Black History Month celebration! Free!

Participate in Date Night @ The DAC. View a special screening of this award winning documentary about fashion icon Andre Leon Talley's life journey. Free!

1165 Angelina St., 78702 austintexas.gov/carvermuseum

1110 Barton Springs Rd., 78704 austintexas.gov/dac

The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities, please call 512-974-3914.