This Saturday, you’re invited to be a part of welcoming the latest addition to SA’s thriving Westside art community. Zac Cimi Arte, owned by artist Nina Donley, is part of the unique live/work units at the Gardens at San Juan Square on Zarzamora. Donely—who was born Juanette Manuela Hernandez, but renamed by foster parents at age five—comes to this momentous and exciting opening after a lifetime of struggle and suffering at the hands of poverty, abusive parents and foster parents, institutionalized living, disillusionment and drug abuse. Creativity has been her saving grace. Her art, which takes many forms and will be on display and for sale along with the work of more than 25 other local artists, deals with issues of cultural and sexual identity and revels in the explosively restorative power of bright, rich color and loose, delightfully idiosyncratic execution. Aside from exhibiting and selling art, Donley plans to use Zac Cimi Arte to serve the community through workshops, classes and general activism for the underserved. This special event will also feature food for purchase, live music and giveaways.
A nearly 6,000-square-foot Monte Vista mansion that blends historic details with modern elegance underwent a steep, $200,000 price cut late last month.…