CMRH Scholarly Soul Food Event: Creating Art in New Mexico
November 28, 2011
Join us for a discussion moderated by UNM Africana Studies instructor, Ben Hazard.
Ben Hazard holds a Master’s Degree of Art from the University of California, Berkeley and as an artist, Hazard is known for his unique acrylic plastic sculpture, pioneered in the ‘70’s and his sensitive and provocative portrait-like charcoal drawings. He has exhibited in galleries, museums and educational institutions throughout the United States and also exhibited at the World Fair in Osaka, Japan. Among other significant accomplishments, Mr. Hazard was commissioned to produce several works in California including an official county flag, a two-ton life size bronze sculpture, In the Spirit, and a 9’ by 15’ steel sculpture, Coming Together. As the former Dean of Applied and Fine Arts and Physical Education at Laney College, in Oakland, he designed a new state-of-the-art Fitness Center and consulted in the design and construction of Laney’s new Art Center and Tennis Courts.
In addition to creating art, Mr. Hazard taught art at the University of California, Berkeley; Stanford University, and the University of Nevada in Reno. As former Curator of Special Exhibits and Education at the Oakland Museum of California for eleven years, he earned national recognition for involving diverse community members as active partners in the planning and execution of over 100 museum programs and events. Additional notable achievements include Mr. Hazard’s appointment by President Jimmy Carter to the Institute of Museum Services Board of Directors in Washington, DC. His Obama Family Portrait was commissioned in 2007 and currently hangs in the private quarters of the White House. His 6’ x 7’ granite sculpture, Buffalo Soldier Monument, features a 5’5” 300 pound bronze Buffalo soldier and was unveiled in November, 2011 at the Veterans Memorial Park in Albuquerque.
And now Ben Hazard has joined the UNM Family! Mr. Hazard will discuss his experiences as a professional artist, his gallery exhibits and work that he has created in New Mexico and for New Mexico.
Soul Food snacks will be provided!
If you have any questions, please contact 277-3769 or sgrankin@unm.edu.
