Exhibit opens biennial debut

(Courtesy photo)

Special to the NEWS

The City of San Benito Cultural Arts Department (CAD) presents the debut of Castilian Roses In December in its biennial form.

This exhibition commemorates the wondrous legend of La Virgen de Guadalupe that dates back to December 12, 1531, when she appeared to Juan Diego and bestowed upon his tilma (or cloak) Castilian Rose Blooms and a miraculous imprint of her portrait.

This sixth iteration presents a survey of regional artists who have created interpretive works based on the story of La Virgen de Guadalupe or on the many facets that comprise this patron saint of the South Texas/Northern Mexico region.

A prevalent, iconic, religious, and cultural symbol, her image is woven into the fabric of the border visual landscape of the Rio Grande Valley.

Her existence, while primarily understood in a Catholic context, has largely transcended this status, welcoming in conversations on indigeneity, personhood, shared experiences, and refuge according to CAD officials.

The CAD stands firm in its belief that this practice of engaging and dialoging with tradition is key in preserving the rich tapestry of our regional history while opening the door to further investigations and representations.

This year’s call for art yielded a range of paintings, installation pieces, prints, and glass mosaics that interpret La Virgen de Guadalupe from the surreal to the most intimate and family-oriented moments.

Artists like Eduardo Garcia, from McAllen, Karla De La Fuente from Mission to Mariana Smith and Michel Flores Tavizon from Brownsville are participating. An installation by a group of South Texas College art students will also be on display.

Castilian Roses in December had its opening reception on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum.

The exhibit runs through January 10, 2026. The museum is open Monday — Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Guided tours and in-person access are available throughout the exhibit dates. Virtual programming, such as video presentations, interviews, and virtual tours, are also available on the CAD’s social media platforms.

The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum is located at 250 E. Heywood St., San Benito.

For more information on this event or any upcoming events, contact the CAD at (956) 658-8493, or follow the CAD on its website: https://www.cityofsanbenito.com/249/Cultural-Arts-Department on Facebook @sanbenitoCULTURALARTS and Instagram @sb_cultural_arts.