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July 21 Opening Night Benefits the AIDS Foundation of Chicago

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Chicago, IL — “GROOVE is in the heART,” an exhibition of new paintings by Erik R. Sosa will be unveiled July 21 at Big City Swing Studio, 1012 W. Randolph in Chicago.

Meet this exceptional artist at the opening reception on Thursday, July 21, from 7 to 10 p.m.  A $5 donation at the door will benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago.  The opening reception will feature light appetizers, wine and a first look at the exciting new work by Sosa. The exhibition will run July 21 through August 20, 2005.  Call Big City Swing Studio at (312) 243-0700 for available hours.

“GROOVE is in the heART” is a kaleidoscope of paintings, ranging in form and style.  When mounting an exhibition, Sosa feels each show offers him the opportunity to create a unique atmosphere with his canvases serving as the background to inspire the audience.  His work has been compared to Kandiski, Harring and Pollock but Sosa’s new exhibition showcases his own unique style.

Sosa believes that everyone has a talent and gift.  His is the ability to view the canvas as a means of self expression.  “As an abstract expressionist, I don’t define myself to any one particular style,” says Sosa.  “I’m continually inspired from all directions of life.” Through his combination of bright colors, geometric designs, organic shapes and/or free hand motion, Sosa produces an art style that is fresh and vibrant.  “I never really know what I’ll be painting,” says Sosa.  “You could say each canvas is my coloring book.  I start to scribble out some lines, filling in with color and go with flow, creating till something clicks.”

Sosa’s passion for art is carried over to his passion of supporting the non-profit community.  In the past he has donated pieces of work to benefit such diverse organizations as Center on Halsted, Victor C. Neumann Association, Vital Bridges, Spanish Coalition for Jobs and Heartland, to name just a few.  His artwork that was auctioned off at the 2005 AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s annual gala helped raise an additional $1,000 for that organization.

Sosa’s incredible talent and vision have helped him earn the coveted VOX/Out Emerging Voices of Style + Design award this year.  This highly respected industry award was created in 2001 by VOX® Vodka and Out magazine to honor openly gay and lesbian individuals whose works have come to signify style, vision and design.  To commemorate its fifth year, VOX and Out will be honoring artists and designers who are just beginning to establish a name for themselves – a new focus for the prestigious award.  The first of five honorees nationwide, Sosa will receive the VOX/Out Emerging Voices of Style + Design Award at Sidetrack Chicago on July 27. (Full Story)

Sosa is a self-taught Mexican-American artist, born in Mexico City and a Chicago resident since 1980.  He currently resides in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago.

For more information about Erik R. Sosa, his work, and upcoming exhibition visit www.erikRsosa.com.

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