Art Opening: 'Altar' April 10, 2010

The Antonio Peralta House Museum is open for tours! On the second Saturday of every month, you can take guided tours of the historical exhibits, which weave California history with the stories of today's Fruitvale community.

Oakland artist Lalo Cervantes' latest work, Altar, created in collaboration with Holly Alonso, will be on view for the first time on April 10th. The piece gives voice to the interwoven silences of Native Americans and Californio women on California's ranchos. The takeover of the landscape by the armed forces of New Spain and Mexico, and their radically different ways of using the land, forms a backdrop to these lost histories. The piece also features touchable objects, including Ohlone musical instruments, handmade by Ohlone culture bearer Rico Miranda.

"Las Castas Mexicanas," another piece by Cervantes, is also on display. Racial catalogues of 19th century Mexico appear on an inlaid desk or vargueno, contrasted with hidden photographs of Cervantes' family.

Through June, the special exhibit room features a multimedia exhibit about the art and history of Oakland's Mien community, refugees from Laos. Through films, photography, and the women's own words and art pieces, "Embroidering Our Lives: Mien Women at Peralta Hacienda" is a testament to the power of cultural exchange.

45-minute tours of the exhibits, including Cervantes' works, will be led at 2:30 and 4:15. There will be time inbetween for free exploration. Book ahead to ensure a tour! Admission, including a tour, is free. Donations are welcome.

Official Website: http://www.peraltahacienda.org