What makes the Gilroy community attractive to so many artists? Almost every artist I have spoken with has mentioned the beauty of our land and our family friendly atmosphere. After living in Santa Cruz for four years, artists David and Dyanne Hofstad looked for a place to raise their two young sons. They settled in Gilroy and have lived here for more than 20 years, their sons now 24 and 28.
Recently, I spoke to Hofstad, an Alaskan Native who relocated to Northern California in his early 20s. After taking course work at the University of Alaska, he worked in the automotive industry and human services.
“When you live in Alaska,” he said, “all you can think of is the real world, the places you see on TV.” This itch for greener pastures brought him to the Eureka/Arcadia area where he attended the College of the Redwoods studying business advertising.
Hofstad was first inspired to try his hand at art by his older brother, John, who was somewhat of an artist. However, the real inspiration came when working with at-risk youth in San Jose. He was on a field trip with his charges and discovered a used book store. While browsing, he picked up a book on pastel drawing and decided to give it a try. Starting with portraitures and sports-related themes, he was soon selling commissioned pieces. That was 20 years ago.
Although he enjoys other mediums – such as watercolor – the self-taught artist prefers using pastels because they seem to be an extension of his hands. In fact, he uses his fingers and hands to blend and work the color. Usually working from a photograph, he doesn’t try to replicate the photo but creates something unique.
I asked Hofstad why art is important.
“It’s the creative aspect,” he replied. “It gives one a sense of self-worth, expression, accomplishment. And, as any artist will tell you, it strokes the ego. I like the challenge. Pastels are time consuming and sometimes difficult but I feel I have an innate skill. I look to continuing my artistic development; there is always room to grow. No matter how much you paint, you are never done learning and growing.”
Currently employed by the Federal Transportation Security Administration at Mineta San Jose International Airport, Hofstad’s future plans include sharing his love of art by teaching workshops in pastel drawing. Art by David Hofstad is on display at Lido Gallery on Monterey Street and Syngenta Flowers on Hecker Pass.
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There are still openings this summer for children in fifth- though eighth-grades to paint, draw and create in week long workshops taught by Rick Charvet, local artist and art teacher. Sponsored by the Gilroy Arts Alliance, the free workshops will be held from 10 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m. Aug. 5-9, and 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 12-16 at the Gilroy Center for the Arts on Monterey and Seventh streets. To register, call Sherri at (408) 842-9816.
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What could be better than enjoying free live entertainment in the open air with friends and family right here in the town where you live? If you are already a regular at Fifth Street Live, you know the routine; bring your chair, sit back, relax, enjoy the music, and if you’re so inclined, get up and dance. It all takes place on Fifth Street between Monterey and Eigleberry streets from 7 to 9 p.m. Fridays.
Organized by the Gilroy Arts Alliance and the Gilroy Downtown Business Association, the concerts are free thanks to sponsors Out &About Magazine, Jr. Diaz, The Gilroy Fitzgerald House Bed and Breakfast and Greenwood Motors.
Carol Harris represents the City of Gilroy Art and Culture Commission.
• Gilroy Arts Alliance Landscapes Exhibit
Through July 30: Tuesdays/Wednesdays, 2 to 5 p.m., Saturdays/Sundays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Gilroy Interim Center for the Arts, 7341 Monterey St., Gilroy, (408) 842-6999
• “Love, Sex & the I.R.S.”
Bring Your Own Dinner Theater
July 5, 6, 7, 12, 13 19, 20: Fridays/Saturdays at 8 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m., doors open at 1 p.m, $18
Gilroy Center for the Arts, 7341 Monterey St., Gilroy, (408) 472-3292
• “Summer Youth Institute”
July 15-19, registration closes July 8: Ages 9 through 13, 9 a.m. to noon; Ages 14 through 18, 1 to 4 p.m.
$175/student (SVCT member), $195/student (non-member)
SVCT Rehearsal Studio, 16840 Joleen Way, Unit G2, Morgan Hill, Email Myra Kaelin at su**********@sv**.org
Volunteers wanted
• Gilroy Arts Alliance: Weekend opportunities at the Center, concessions at performances, email Ke*********************@gm***.com
• Gilroy Garlic Festival Gourmet Alley, email Br**********@ya***.com
• South Valley Civic Theatre: Gilroy Garlic Festival Ticket Booth, email Carol at dw******@ma*.com
Coming in August
Free movie under the stars at the Gilroy Center for the Arts. Sponsored by City of Gilroy Arts and Culture Commission, City of Gilroy Public Art Committee and Gilroy Arts Alliance. Watch for date and time. Details: www.gilroyartsalliance.com.
