"Remember Me"

Founded in 1993 by the community-minded trio of Manuel Diosdado Castillo, Cruz Ortiz and Juan Miguel Ramos, the West Side nonprofit San Anto Cultural Arts (originally dubbed Inner City Cultural Arts) has impacted the lives of hundreds of young artists through its two signature endeavors: a continuously active Community Mural Program that’s responsible for more than 50 works of public art, and El Placazo, a community newspaper offering mentorships to inner-city youth in the areas of writing, photography and journalism. A steadfast source of encouragement and inspiration who served as the organization’s executive director and played drums for Snowbyrd and other local bands, Castillo died of cancer on January 6, 2009. Presa House’s “Remember Me” is anchored by a group exhibition featuring artists who were directly inspired by or personally connected to Castillo (Ruth Buentello, Jane Madrigal, Israel Rico, Joe De La Cruz, Mary Agnes Rodriguez and Jose Cosme, to name a few) but also invites members of the community to contribute to “How Did Manny Include Me?” — a letter-writing project inspired by Castillo’s inclusive nature as well as his ability to connect individuals who shared or valued San Anto’s “culture, history and causes." Following the opening reception, "Remember Me" remains on view by appointment through January 26.