Hierro Mohoso
mirror mosaics and iron creations by Alejandro Diaz, Jr.
Exhibit: August 7 - September 5, 2004
Reception: Friday, August 13, 2004, 6-8 pm
During the month of August La Peña will be presenting "Hierro Mohoso" (Rusty Iron) by Alejandro Diaz, Jr. Beginning on August 9 th and running through September 5 th , his unique mirror mosaics and rusted iron creations will be on display at La Peña Gallery with a reception taking place on Friday, August 13 th .
Born in December 1958 on a small ranch in DaCosta, Alejandro's art has taken him on an adventure on his way to the heart of downtown Austin. He remembers his grandfather showing him how to make a kite from a tree limb, a plastic sheet, string and old rags. There were also many times his father brought home large pieces of butcher paper and crayons for him to draw super heroes on.
Throughout the years, he began to work with wood, mirror, glass, and iron. Those are many things people throw away and consider trash, yet he creates art out of this junk. In 1999, he started Mirror Mosaic & Iron Creations, a small shop on East 6 th Street in Austin, where he transforms the trash he finds, or is given, into art. Alejandro also works as a master carpenter for the Zackary Scott Theater. His ability has been put to the test many times while working there. One time was when he had to create 3/4-scale replica of a 1951 Harvester in 11 days. It now stands as a monument between the two theaters at Zackary Scott, right next to the trash.
Music has also become a big part of Alejandro's life. It started when his parents put a mandolin in his lap when he was a few months old. Teachers helped transform his talent, but it was one who used to work on the Lawrence Welk Show that inspired him. He started playing talent shows in the 7 th grade and became a lead singer of a band in the 11 th grade. He decided to become a professional guitarist in 1991 and currently plays as part of a classical trio.
Alejandro Diaz, Jr.'s art and music will both be presented during the opening of "Hierro Mohoso" on Friday, August 13 th at La Peña. His artistic creations will be on display while he performs.