Welcome To

Planet Siqueiros Peña at SPARC

A monthly space providing a unique experience for lovers of traditional world music, as well as more contemporary styles and spoken word reflecting present-day socially conscious themes.

The name of SPARC’s latest community cultural endeavor, the “Planet Siqueiros Peña,” is inspired by the revolutionary Mexican muralist David Alfaro Siqueiros and the South American musical Peñas that produced a wave of music that took old rhythms to express new realities. Historically, the Peña movement emerged during the 1960’s in Chile and in Argentina in times when oppressive military governments did not allow artists to assemble. They were safe spaces that began in private homes where poets and musicians would discretely come together to share food and wine along with their songs of despair and hope. During the following decades, forced into exile, many musicians moved north bringing the Peña spirit with them.  

SUSPENDIDOS EN EL TIEmpo

Suspended in Time                

AN evening of SALVADORAN POETRY, MUSIC & ART               

                FEATURING A CELEBRATION OF POETRY and book release                                      

BY SALVADORAN POET CYNTHIA GONZALEZ

(FORMERLY KNOWN AS CYN da’ Poet)

WITH Musical performances by

Duo Amanecer, Megan Velasco & DJ Michael Spinz

On Saturday, July 31st, at 685 Venice Blvd, Venice, CA (Old Venice Jail), SPARC’s historic headquarters since 1977, “Planet Siqueiros Peña” presents an evening of Salvadoran poetry, music, and art. The night will showcase Salvadoran/Angelino artists:  Cynthia Gonzalez (formerly known as Cyn da’ Poet), musical performances by Duo Amanecer and Megan Velasco and an art exhibition featuring the works of Leaf, Lizvet Corral, Ofelia Yanez, Timoi De Leon, and Carlos Rogel. The evening will also showcase the sounds of LA-based DJ, Michael Spinz. 

The evening will feature a book-release and readings by Salvadoran poet Cynthia Gonzalez from her new book, “Suspendidos en el Tiempo” (Suspended in Time). Cynthia uses her poetry to soothe the soul, unite cultures, and become the voice of those who have remained silent. Cynthia was born in El Salvador and raised in South Central Los Angeles. She began writing at the age of 14 and since 2006 has performed at several venues and school campuses throughout California. Cynthia is known for, “her direct style and ability to tackle sensitive subjects in the Latino community through her work (Lilliane Ballasteros, Oxy College).

Given that Cynthia’s book is being published in Argentina, the evening will also include a musical performance by Duo Amanecer, a fusion of Argentine folklore featuring the different styles of Argentine cultural rhythms like zamba and chacarera. Their performances are known to establish a spiritual and passionate connection with audiences. Also featured is singer Megan Velasco; she is known for her performances on Univision’s “Objectivo Fama”, a Spanish version of American Idol. The sounds of DJ Michael Spinz will open and close the evening with his commanding style of mixing, blending and having people dancing.

The SPARC gallery will feature the artworks of five talented visual artists including: LA-based artist, Lizvet Corral who just completed the design of Cynthia’s new book, “Suspendidos en el Tiempo”; the feminist art of Timoi De Leon; the photography/art of Ofelia Yanez; photography by Leaf; and paintings by Carlos Rogel.

SPARC is proud to present the “Planet Siqueiros Peña” series that provides a unique blend of socially conscious traditional world music, contemporary musical styles, and spoken word. Food and open cash bar will be available during intermission; donations to benefit art school tuition fees for creative youth in El Salvador.

Click Here to RSVP to tickets@sparcmuralsorg

Or call 310/822-9560 x15