Social outreach ministry Mobile Loaves & Fishes is teaming up with Mondo Gallery to present one of the more unique art shows in Austin this summer. Featuring the work of nine local artists who also happen to be homeless, the special exhibition looks to change the way that the local homeless community is perceived.
“Part of the mission for this gallery is to change the paradigm of how you stereotypically see the homeless,” says Alan Graham, president of the Mobile Loaves & Fishes charity and social outreach ministry. “Our vision statement is to empower this community and to help connect people all around.”
Featuring the works of nine local artists who are also homeless, the special exhibition looks to change the way that the local homeless community is perceived.
With this exhibition, Austin will get a chance to see work from members of Art House, the Mobile Loaves & Fishes art program. Twice each week, Art House gives nine homeless artists access to an art studio with their own personal tools, allowing a safe place to craft their work.
As with most of the art featured by Mondo in the gallery space, these pieces are inspired by pop culture and movies, from iconic superheroes like Captain America to classic Hollywood films like Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Graham believes that Mondo and Mobile Loaves & Fishes are a natural fit, thanks to the “community first” spirit practiced by Mondo’s parent company, the Alamo Drafthouse. “They are in our community, recognizing creative art and distributing it. That fits in with our vision of empowering the homeless community and providing them with dignified work.”
The Art House exhibition at Mondo Gallery kicks off with an opening reception on Thursday, July 10 at 7 pm, featuring the artists in attendance. The exhibition will be on display on July 11 and 12 from noon – 6 pm at the gallery, with all art available for purchase and with all profits benefiting the artists.
“We understand that if this is a success for Mondo, they will be extremely willing to do it again,” says Graham. With continued positive exposure for the homeless community, Graham and all of his fellow volunteers will keep doing what they can to help them back on our feet. “After all, they are our neighbors.”
The Art House special exhibition at Mondo Gallery starts with an artists' reception on Thursday, July 10 and is open on July 11 and 12. Featured artwork includes Captain America: The Winter Soldier by Cathy Carr-Haynes.
This mix-and-match coasters depict Austin landmarks that only locals know, including some that have closed.Photo courtesy of Blue Genie Art Bazaar