Tacos & Chicano Art: Elegante Catering at the Cheech Marin Center with Judithe Hernández
Elegante Catering had the distinct honor of providing culinary services for the recent art exhibition of the esteemed Chicana artist, Judithe Hernández, at the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture & Industry.
This event not only celebrated Hernández’s profound contributions to Chicano art, but also underscored the vibrant cultural heritage that the center champions.
Judithe Hernández: A Pillar of Chicano Art
Born in 1948 in Los Angeles, Judithe Hernández emerged as a pivotal figure in the Chicano art movement.
Her journey began at the Otis College of Art and Design, where she earned both her BFA and MFA degrees.
In 1974, she broke new ground by becoming the fifth member—and notably, the only woman—of the influential art collective, Los Four.
This group played a crucial role in bringing Chicano art to the forefront of the mainstream art scene.
Hernández’s early acclaim as a muralist in the 1970s evolved into a focus on works-on-paper, particularly pastels.
Her art often intertwines indigenist imagery with explorations of gender roles, reflecting the social and political dynamics of her time. Her works are housed in esteemed institutions, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).
The Cheech Marin Center: A Beacon for Chicano Art
Established in collaboration with the city of Riverside and the Riverside Art Museum, the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture & Industry opened its doors on June 18, 2022.
The center showcases over 700 pieces from Marin’s personal collection, making it the world’s most extensive assemblage of Chicano art.
It serves as a dedicated space for the appreciation, study, and celebration of Chicano artistic expression.
Elegante Catering’s Culinary Contribution
For this illustrious event, Elegante Catering was entrusted with serving an anticipated 300 guests. We curated two serving stations featuring our MILD Taco Cart package, which included:
- Taco Selection: Steak, Chicken, and Al Pastor options
- Sides: Traditional rice and beans
- Salsa Bar: A variety of salsas—red and green—accompanied by onions, cilantro, radishes, limes, and chips
- Essentials: Plates, forks, and napkins
Our team, comprising myself and five dedicated servers, donned our signature attire: black pants, white dress shirts, black aprons emblazoned with our logo, and our distinctive gold ties.
I wore my chef jacket, symbolizing our commitment to culinary excellence.
An Evening of Art and Culture
The two-hour event was a resounding success, with the museum filled to capacity.
Guests immersed themselves in Hernández’s evocative artworks, which spanned her illustrious career.
The ambiance was further enriched by Hernández’s heartfelt speech, where she expressed deep gratitude for her culture and shared insights into her artistic passion.
A Memorable Encounter with Cheech Marin
The evening was further elevated by the presence of Cheech Marin himself, a fervent admirer of Hernández’s work.
I had the privilege of conversing with him, expressing my admiration for his dedication to Chicano art and culture.
He graciously engaged in our discussion and posed for photographs, marking a highlight of the evening.
Cheech Marin: Champion of Chicano Art
Born Richard Anthony Marin in 1946 in Los Angeles, Cheech Marin rose to fame as part of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong in the 1970s and 1980s.
Beyond his comedic achievements, Marin has been a steadfast advocate for Chicano art.
His extensive collection and the establishment of the Cheech Marin Center underscore his commitment to preserving and promoting Chicano cultural heritage.
Reflections on a Celebratory Evening
Serving at the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture & Industry was an enriching experience for the Elegante Catering team.
The fusion of art, culture, and cuisine created an unforgettable evening that celebrated the rich tapestry of Chicano heritage.
We are profoundly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a significant event and look forward to supporting future cultural celebrations.