The Islander Art Gallery will hold an opening reception for “Stations,” an exhibition of works by San Antonio-based artist Vincent Valdez, on Friday, Feb. 11 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Islander Art Gallery, 4024 Weber St. Valdez will present a lecture on his works during the reception at 7 p.m.

 “Stations” features 13 monumental charcoal-on-paper drawings that weave the Christian narrative regarding the stations of the cross with the story of one night in the life of a boxer. The drawings are a metaphor for the everyday struggles of humanity. Valdez uses knowledge from art history, his artistic talents, and his experiences of everyday life in San Antonio’s largely Hispanic Southside to create a powerful installation of monumental drawings that, ultimately, confront the struggles of humanity.

Before creating the narrative and drawings, Valdez studied boxing illustrations, ESPN Classic’s Tuesday Night Fights, and various artistic masters, including French 19th-century portraitist Jean-Auguste Dominique Ingres and American 20th-century artist Dennis Hopper.

“Stations” catalogue contributor, Carol Kino, states, “Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of ‘Stations’ is that the focus is not on victory or glory. Instead, the cycle seems to suggest that in life, as much as  in boxing and in art, real success lies in being willing to confront one’s difficulties and fears—and continuing to grow, despite them.”

presentation, will travel to several venues around the United States. According to McNay Art Museum curator, Lyle Williams, “We see him [the boxer] getting weighed, preparing for the fight, in the ring, and struggling with his opponent.  Boxing is an important part of the culture of San Antonio, with its numerous boxing gyms where champions of the sport have trained.  For Valdez, boxing is also a metaphor for the everyday struggles of humanity.  In “Stations,” he extends this metaphor to encompass the life of Christ, the last moments, or stations, before his crucifixion.”

“Stations” will run through Sunday, March 13. The Islander Art Gallery is free and open to the public. Hours are: Wednesday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Saturday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

Friday, February 11
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Islander Art Gallery, 4024 Weber in Hamlin Center

“Stations” artist Vincent Valdez will present a lecture on his works at 7 p.m. The opening reception will feature live entertainment by Flamenco guitarist, Antonio Fernandez, and dancing by Olaya and Marisa Solis and Stephanie Nevarez. Food will be provided by Nuevo Cafe. The reception is free and open to the public.

Saturday, February 12
1-4 p.m.
Islander Art Gallery, 4024 Weber in Hamlin Center

Family Day will feature Vincent Valdez and special guest former Olympic boxer Humberto “Lefty” Barrera. Valdez will sign invitations, discuss his art, and demonstrate his drawing techniques for children. Family Day is free and open to the public.