Legacy and Cultural Connection at The Cheech
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum has released a new public service announcement (PSA) featuring Cheech Marin and actor Brice Gonzalez, along with the works of permanent collection artists Frank Romero and Wayne Alaniz Healy, among others. At its heart, the PSA is about legacy — Cheech’s as a collector, advocate and supporter of the arts and The Cheech as the only Chicano art museum in the nation.
The PSA begins with a young boy (who could be Cheech’s younger self) visiting a museum for the first time. Awed and inspired, he sits on a bench and gazes at Beautiful Downtown Boyle Heights (1993) by artist Wayne Alaniz Healy where Cheech joins him. “Paintings are like stories,” Cheech says, “They’re meant to be seen up close.”
“Art is meant to be seen in person. That’s what The Cheech is all about — visiting and having your own experience.” says Marin.
“The filmmakers beautifully captured the connection people feel at The Cheech,” said Jen Kanter, Director of Communications, Riverside Art Museum and The Cheech. “The PSA highlights the moment of understanding between generations and acknowledges their shared cultural experience..”
A co-production between The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture and Radium 88 Productions, the PSA was written and directed by Alessandro Gentile and Heather Flores.
“We hope it inspires people to visit and support The Cheech,” said Kanter.
WATCH “The Cheech Legacy PSA” (request broadcast-quality videos for airing on your station)
