Join Bihl Haus Arts for the opening reception of “Lust for Art,” an exhibition of works by artist Armando Sanchez, from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22 at the Bihl Haus gallery, 2803 Fredericksburg Road inside the Sorento Apartments. The exhibition closes with a reception from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23.

“Lust for Art” includes new and older works that focus on Sanchez’s appreciation of acclaimed surrealist painters, such as Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, and the Belgian artist Rene Magritte. The exhibition title, “Lust for Art,” is borrowed from the title of the 1956 American film, “Lust for Life,” a biographical depiction of the life of the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh.

“My art has a lot do with concepts,” Sanchez said. “For instance, one of my works features a Mexican $100 bill – but it’s made in China. I like the good, the bad, and the ugly, and the macabre.”

At 83-years-old, Sanchez said he still enjoys painting, and already has plans for newer works. “I have a lot of dreams that I would like to paint,” he said. “I’m one of the last of the older generation of San Antonio artists. Art is long, and life is short.”

About the Artist
For the past 60 years Armando Sanchez has been painting the landscapes and people of San Antonio, Texas. Armando excels in capturing the drama and energy of Mexican traditions and its history makers. For example, his rendition of Mexican revolutionary leader Emiliano Zapata has become the icon of Mi Tierra Café & Bakery.
Armando’s classical portraits include his visual rendering of Pope John Paul II which graces the Chancery of San Antonio’s Archdiocese. Furthermore, his National Award Hispanic Poster Child hangs in the Smithsonian National Gallery in Washington, D.C.
He is also well known for his watercolors depicting Mexican American culture. His artistic creations are in the collection of Maya Angelou, Jose Feliciano, Cheech Marin, Mick Jagger and the University of Texas System Chancellor Mark Yudof. In addition, the University of Texas at San Antonio’s former president, Ricardo Romo, has selected a diverse array of Armando’s paintings for UTSA’s art collection.
Armando’s paintings have a definite enchilada and Coca Cola flavor! This native San Antonio artist embraces his Mexican and Texas roots with a bold, vibrant and colorful unique style all his own. His extraordinary ability to master multi-mediums expand his range of talent.
About Bihl Haus Arts
Founded in 2005, Bihl Haus Arts is a community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that improves the health and quality of life for active older adults and veterans through art education and further creates community through the arts with exhibitions, performances, literary events, artist talks, and the annual On and Off Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour. For more information, visit www.bihlhausarts.org or call (210) 339-8982.