Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
As he continues to evolve and share his talents, the McAllen holiday event spotlighting visual and performing arts education in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas, recently offered a platform to a remarkably talented artist, Humberto “Homer” Rincones. This two-day festival, featuring music from Creative Arts Studio students and various artistic exhibits, showcased Rincones’s exceptional work among other original, hand-crafted artworks.
A retired schoolteacher and a lifelong musician, Homer has recently redirected his creative energies towards visual arts. His passion for art is evident in his detailed paintings, a skill he nurtured alongside a successful career in education and music. Originally from Lyford, Texas, Rincones is a proud sixth-generation Texan with deep roots in the region.
Homer’s artistic journey is decorated with accolades, including Teacher of the Year awards and a People’s Choice Award for his artwork in Brownsville. His work, characterized by photorealism and a flair for contemporary styles, demonstrates his versatility and commitment to his craft. Now at 60, Rincones is keen on exploring his artistic skills further, aiming to train with professional artists and refine his unique style.
Homer’s approach to art is meticulous and time intensive. His paintings employ a glazing technique, working in layers to achieve a lifelike quality. This technique, especially in oil paintings, demands patience and precision, qualities Rincones has improved over years of practice. His works display technical proficiency and convey deeper themes and illusions, reminiscent of artists like M.C. Escher and Picasso.
As Rincones looks forward to his second career in art, he remains grounded in gratitude. His hopes for a lasting career in art are accompanied by a deep appreciation for the blessings he has received and a commitment to maintaining his health and well-being.
Homer’s story demonstrates the power of lifelong learning and the pursuit of passion. His transition from a respected educator and musician to a celebrated visual artist exemplifies the boundless potential of creative expression. As he continues to evolve and share his talents, Rincones is an inspiring figure in the Rio Grande Valley’s vibrant arts community.
Yoli Cantu, the event’s organizer, emphasizes that artists showcased at the festival were selected through extensive vetting. The application and booth fees collected from participating professional artists are used to fund scholarships for students in the Valley. These scholarships are available to students pursuing studies in various artistic disciplines, including drawing, painting, photography, dance, music, and vocal training.
