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HavanaJournal.com: Cuban Americans

Cuban American artist Jose Acosta awarded Honorary Diploma at Touro College

Posted May 19, 2009 by Publisher in Cuban Americans.
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On May 15th, 2009 Touro College Sunset branch in Brooklyn acquired the painting “Art Gallery” by Cuban American Artist Jose Acosta.  The painting will be displayed at the Touro College Sunset branch, as this is the branch with the largest population of Hispanic students. 

Jose Acosta was awarded an Honorary Diploma by Touro College on this day by Millie Colon the Director of Touro College Sunset branch.  In Attendance were Dr. Arturo Alvarez, Dr. Hernando Merchand, Dr. Elelis Pena, Numerous Students and the Press.

Jose Acosta is a Cuban-American Artist. Born in San Jose Cuba 1966 currently lives in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. with his Family. Jose has made great strides in America. His works are in many Private and Public Collections. Jose creates booth Paintings & Sculpture. Most recently his works were added to the collection of The World Bank Art Program, United Cerebral Palsy, Healthy Families, Touro College and also The University of Pennsylvania Art Collection.  Jose is included in “Antologia de Pintores Hispano-Americanos” 2009 and his painting “Celebration” will be on the cover.

Touro College is a Jewish-sponsored independent institution of higher and professional education. The College was established primarily to enrich the Jewish heritage, and to serve the larger American community. Approximately 17,500 students are currently enrolled in its various schools and divisions. Touro College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education [ 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, Tel. no. (267) 284-5000 ].The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the United States Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
This accreditation status covers Touro College and its branch campuses, locations and instructional sites in the New York area, as well as branch campuses and programs in Berlin, Jerusalem, Moscow, and Florida.

Member Comments

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On May 21, 2009, paul maurer wrote:

Congratulations, Jose.
Jose is a fine painter and good friend. Which is why a large selection of his work is featured on my website, together with the work of many artists who live in Cuba.

Paul Maurer
http://www.cubartenewyork.com

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On May 21, 2009, alan fliegel wrote:

Jose’s art is superseded by his brilliant personality.  I’ve been collecting Mr. Acosta’s art for several years now.  I especially like his character relationships, the dance between like figures…it reminds me of how we wiggle through life. Uplifting!.
Alan Fliegel

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On May 24, 2009, Judith Singer wrote:

It’s a pleasure to see Jose Acosta’s increasing recognition as a very special artist.  I own three of Jose’s artworks myself.  I enjoy both his thought-provoking sculptures and his paintings, so full of color and vitality.  Jose’s use of bright colors is exceptional.  The paintings are bold and powerful without being overpowering.  His figures are simple, but convey a full range of emotions: joy, hope, dejection, love.  Some of his paintings always cause viewers to smile, because he conveys joy so clearly.  Jose is also a great guy who volunteers time to a number of organizations and is always happy to help a friend.  Congratulations, Jose, you’re a great artist and a great guy.

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On May 24, 2009, Judith Singer wrote:

by the way, I forgot to mention that you can always see a few of Jose’s artworks displayed for sale at The Arts Upstairs gallery in Phoenicia, NY, in the Catskill Mountains.

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On May 28, 2009, Jose Acosta wrote:

I would like to thank all my friends, family and collectors for their continued support of my Art.  I have always felt that if you do what you love in life then you will be very successful at it.  The joy I receive from being able to create new work is beyond words. I am very fortunate to be able to create and show my Art on a regular basis.  I have so many people to thank for their support that it would take a book just to write down all the names, so I will not list all the names here.  If you are reading this you know who you are and how much I appreciate all your support & dedication. You are all in my Heart & Prayers.  To my Art Mentors who now live with God, John Hultberg (My Teacher), Robert Graham (Artist Mentor), Peter Bloch (Art Historian)  I thank you all for your past guidance and generosity. All the people I have come in contact with throughout life have changed me in a positive way. I thank God for that and all the other blessings in my life.

Jose Acosta

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On August 18, 2009, Cuban American Artist wrote:

Jose Acosta will exhibit at QbaVa Gallery

On Friday October 9th 2009 Jose Acosta will be part of a Cuban Artists Exhibition that will be presented by CubArte NY Owner Paul Maurer.  QbaVa Gallery is Owned by the famous Cuban Artist Jesus Rivera and is located at 508-42nd Street, Union City NJ 07087.  Tel 201-325-0197

Please join us on October 9th from 6pm to 11pm for the opening reception.

The Show will be on exhibition through November 6th 2009.

From the famous Roberto Fabelo, Antonia Eiriz, Mariano Rodriguez, and Tomas Sanchez to lesser known (in the U.S. that is…), but rising artists like Alicia de la Campa, Isolina Limonta, Hugo Rubio, Carlos Verdial, Pedro Piloto and others, we can offer you original works on canvas and on paper.
  However, as you’ll see, special emphasis (especially in the number of works shown) and respect is given to that lesser known part of the Cuban art scene: Fresh and new talent, struggling to find its forum outside the island.
  But what is art from Cuba? And what’s so different about art from Cuba in comparism to art from other Latin American countries or contemporary Latin cultures?
  “Several aspects,” writes Keith Morrison, distinguished artist and art educator at Tyler School of Art at Temple University. “For one, it’s the isolation of the artist, aware but removed from the critical discourse abroad.”
  “Another is material deprivation, making improvisation and innovation a crucial part of the creative process.”
  “Also, the entire political and social matrix of Cuba in relation to the U.S. has significantly influenced artistic themes, content and imagery.”
  “And perhaps most importantly, Cuba is unique in the Latin American diaspora for its uninhibited mix of African and European influences.”
  Rainer Maria Rilke suggested that “a work of art is good if it has arisen out of necessity”. This necessity may be economical for artists who live in Cuba. But they also hunger for recognition & acceptance outside the island.

Please Visit http://www.cubartenewyork.com or http://www.artid.com/jose  or http://www.qbava.com for more info.

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On September 08, 2009, Jose Acosta wrote:

In NYC on August 30, 2009 the Cuban-American Artist Jose Acosta who lives in Poughkeepsie, New York was Awarded Premio Arte 2009 Award for his Paintings & Sculpture.  Premio Arte was created in 2006 to recognize the Hispanic Arts in the United States.  Premio Arte is awarded annually to Hispanic Artists in Plastic Arts, Theatre & Dance, Music & Song and Poetry & Literature. This was the IV Premio Arte Awards.

On this night they had a special homage to the legendary Puerto Rican Singer Bobby Capó who passed away in 1989.  They also had a Life Time Achievement Award for Nereo López Meza the famous photographer. In Attendance was the Famous Writer Arturo Alvarez. Awards were presented to the recipients by celebrity host Luis Velasco & Xiomara Taveras Enriquez.
Premio Arte would not be possible if not for the dedication and hard work of Mauricio Hernández Communications & Marketing, Jorge Iván Mora Organizer, All the New York Book Fair jurors for their participation as independent jurors in the selection of the award recipients, and the President and Organizer of Event Rafael Palácios.

To see more visit http://www.artid.com/jose

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On September 14, 2009, Cuban American Artist wrote:

On September 10, 2009 Jose Acosta a Cuban-American Artist who now lives in New York was part of the Exhibition 7 Artists 7 Islands at the Embassy of Venezuela in Washington, DC. The opening reception was great with many VIP Guest including the Ambassador of Venezuela Bernardo Alvarez Herrera and the Ambassador of Haiti Raymond Alcide Joseph. The exhibition will be on display through the 18th of September at the Venezuelan Embassy in Washington, DC located at 1099 30th NW Street.

Special Thanks to Marcel Wah for Curating the Show.

Special Thanks to Patricia Abdelnour, Cultural Attache, Ebassy of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

The Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Washington D.C. Invites you next to the: Opening Reception of: * Art Exhibition 7 Islands | 7 Artists. Works by artists living in and out of the Caribbean

Participating Artists: Jose Acosta | Dudley Charles | Christinne Maryse | Colimon Cecile|Comblen Scherezade Garcia | Béatrice Mellinger | Justo Osuna Date: September 10, 2009. Where: Andres Bello Hall 1099 30th Street NW. 6-8 PM. Gallery Hours: M-F 9-1 and 2-5. RSVP: 202.342.6828. Exhibition will continue through September 18, 2009

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On September 25, 2009, Jose Acosta wrote:

Presidente de Colombia Dr. Álvaro Uribe at Banquete del Millón


2009-09-23 By Jose Acosta

Last night on September 22, 2009 I had the honor of joining my friend the famous artist from Spain Antonio Perez Melero at the Banquete del Millón at the Terrace on the Park in Flushing, NY. The Event was spectacular with great Food, Music and Special Guest from all over the World. I met Padre Diego Jaramillo the Presidente of the Organización of El Minuto de Dios and so many other fine guest mostly from Colombia but also from many other nations.The special Guest Speaker this evening was the President of Colombia Dr. Alvaro Uribe Vélez. I am a Cuban American and did not know much about Colombia except what I had herd from friends. That would soon change as Dr. Alvaro Uribe Vélez gave the most wonderful and informed speech that I have ever herd. He is very intelligent and knew all the facts and figures of everything he talked about. He also admitted where improvements needed to be made and spoke so enthusiastically about Colombia that it gave me great pride to be Hispanic and in the presence of such a great individual and Hispanic Leader. After the speech he came to our table to shake hands and greet the guest, most of the guest at our table were crying tears of joy as they were able to embrace him and some were able to take pictures with him. I would like to thank the President of Colombia Dr. Alvaro Uribe Vélez for visiting New York and making this such a special evening for all who attended. I would also like to thank all the organizers of the event for creating such a beautiful and successful event. A special thanks to Ms Cecilia Acevedo for the invite and my friend Antonio Melero Perez for introducing me to so many fine people at this event. I had a wonderful time and look forward to attending again next year. Viva Colombia!!!

For more info http://www.minutodedios.org

Cuban American Artist Jose Acosta.

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On October 12, 2009, Jose Acosta wrote:

JOSE ACOSTA EXHIBITS AT THE QUEENS MUSEUM OF ART.

Jose Acosta was one of 3 Artists chosen to participate in an exhibition COLORS hosted by NY Book Expo at The Queens Museum of Art on October 2nd and 3rd, 2009

Jose Acosta, Marianne Sagbinni and Hugo Sandoval exhibited at the Queens Museum of Art. The opening festival was quite grand with many guest and VIPs attending. NY Book Expo and the Queens Museum of Art did a great job setting up the exhibition. The guest enjoyed great food and wine, also live entertainment by Stephanie Garay and Nilko Andreas.

Amir Parsa was the Keynote Speaker who gave a wonderful speech and story that ended with “I do not speak English” and Jacqueline Donado the founder of NY Book Fair Expo created a wonderful event enjoyed by all who participated and attended the event.

A special recognition to Jorge Ivan Mora for his contribution in the selection of the Artists for the exhibition and his input on the exhibition catalog. COLORS exhibition catalog was published by NY Book Expo and the Queens Museum of Art.

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On November 17, 2009, Jose Acosta wrote:

Colegio Nacional de Periodistas de la República de Cuba en el Exilio, Delegación New York - New Jersey. 

On November 15, 2009 I had the Honor of attending the Colegio Nacional de Periodistas de la República de Cuba en el Exilio, Delegación New York - New Jersey, “Dia del Periodista” Annual Banquet.  The event was held at Las Palmas Banquet hall in Union City, New Jersey. The master of ceremony was the famous broadcaster Renato Morffi Naranjo. Awards were given to Félix Lam and Orlando Brú by the President of the Colegio Nacional de Periodistas Félix Paret.

In attendance the elite of New Jersey including past President Dr. Antonio A, Acosta, Vice President Felipe Gómez. And the unforgettable coordinator of the event Pablo Laserna.
I was invited to the event by my mentor Arturo Alvarez Editor & Publisher of POESIA Magazine. Arturo Alvarez is also the person who nominated me for membership in Colegio Nacional de Periodistas de la República de Cuba en el Exilio, and I am eternally grateful to him for all his efforts on my behalf.

The banquet was beautiful and tasty with the most delicious Cuban food and the Musical events were magnificent.  With performance by the Guitarist George Chiquillo, and breath taking vocal performances by the singers Rita Elena “La Nena de Cuba” and Maria Rivas “Azuquita”

It was a most memorable event and I would like to thank all the committee of Colegio Nacional de Periodistas de la República de Cuba en el Exilio, Delegación New York - New Jersey.  Their hard work and dedication contributed to making this a fabulous event enjoyed by all who attended.

Cuban American Artist, Jose Acosta.

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On December 02, 2009, Jose Acosta wrote:

Cuban American Artist Jose Acosta will participate in just One Island II exhibition at QbaVa Gallery.

Opening Reception Friday December 4, 2009 from 7-10 p.m.

QbaVa Gallery presents just One Island II (Una Sola Isla II) From December 4, 2009 to January 22, 2010 Openning Reception on December 4, 2009 from 7-10 p.m.

QbaVa Gallery bridges the gap between Havana Cuba and New York City. QbaVa Gallery will be holding the most important exhibition of CUBAN ART on the East Coast, which will include the most significant contemporary Cuban artists. Agustin R Rojas, Alberto Morgan, Bernardo Navarro, Cesar Alfonso, Carlos R Cardenas, Francisco R Sanchez, Fernando Gomez, Fernando Garcia, Gustavo Acosta, Geandy Pavon, Humberto Castro, Jesus Rivera, Jose Acosta, Lazaro R Dominguez, Raul Villarreal, Walter Rodriguez.

QbaVa Gallery is Owned by the famous Cuban Artist Jesus Rivera and is located at 508-42nd Street, Union City NJ 07087 http://www.qbava.com

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On December 31, 2009, Jose Acosta wrote:

Latino Artists Exhibition at University of Connecticut.

On January 7, 2010 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Jose Acosta will participate in the art exhibition and attend the reception for the Latino Artists Exhibition at the University of Connecticut. The event will be hosted at the Stamford UCONN Gallery; One University Place Stamford, CT. Detailed Info Available at 203-251-8400

The Exhibition will be on display from January 4 - January 29, 2010
The reception will be on January 7 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. please come and meet the artists, this event is brought to you by University of Connecticut and VIDA SOCIAL in Fairfield County.  Latin Cuisine provided by our sponsors. Tacos Guadalajara, De Maya Restaurant and
Quechua Restaurant.
Musical Performances by Manos del Candombe (Afro-Uruguayan Folkloric Group)

Participating Artists: Jose Acosta (Cuba), Claudio N. Altesor (Uruguay), Ed Bianchi (Uruguay), Marisol Cardé (Puerto Rico), Rodulfo Cardé (Puerto Rico), Rosa E. Colón (Colombia), Duvian Montoya (Colombia), Hernán Restrepo (Colombia), Arnaldo Ugarte (Honduras), Ines Villanueva (Peru).

Jose Acosta feels it is a great honor to be able to exhibit his paintings at the University of Connecticut along side works of these very talented Latino Artists.

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On January 07, 2010, Jose Acosta wrote:

Jose Acosta Solo Show of Paintings at Riverwinds Gallery Beacon New York.
Riverwinds gallery at 172 Main Street in Beacon is delighted to welcome Jose Acosta to our gallery in Beacon, New York. His paintings of bright colors, swirling figures, and vibrant energy warm your heart and put a smile on your face. The opening reception for the show is February 13, 2010, (2nd Saturday) 5 - 8 pm.  The show will run through March 7, 2010.