LAist + KCET ARTBOUND Screening Series continues with the premiere of América Tropical: The Martyr Mural of Siqueiros. This new documentary will delve into the story of América Tropical, a large-scale outdoor mural painted by David Alfaro Sisqueiros. Originally unveiled in 1932, the mural was eventually white-washed after drawing the ire of Olvera Street officials. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion led by Antonia Cereijido (she/her), host of the Imperfect Paradise podcast from LAist Studios. From 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., purchase classic dumplings or katsu sandwiches from Bling Bling Dumpling.

SPECIAL GUESTS

José Figueroa (he/him), filmmaker, co-founder - Dignicraft

Oscar Magallanes (he/him), artist, co-founder - 3B Collective

Rebecca Zamora (she/her), independent scholar, arts professional

ABOUT THE FILM
“América Tropical: The Martyr Mural of Siqueiros” – Premieres Wed., Oct. 11 at 9 p.m. on KCET / Fri., Oct. 13 at 8 p.m. on PBS SoCal

Mexican social realist painter David Alfaro Siqueiros created Olvera Street’s popular “América Tropical”, introducing an innovative and unprecedented technique to muralism that required revolutionary techniques and materials. “America Tropical” is considered the most studied white-washed mural in the United States. The mural and Siqueiros inspired many contemporary muralists working today profiled in the film including 3B Collective, Erin Yoshi and Fabian Debora (Homeboy Art Academy). The film also features commentary from Rubén Ortiz-Torres, Harry Gamboa Jr., Isabel Rojas-Williams and more.