The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, also known as The Cheech, marked its first anniversary on June 21, 2023. The museum, located in Riverside, California, is dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of the Chicano movement, a social and political movement that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s among Mexican Americans in the United States.
The Cheech is named after its founder, Cheech Marin, a comedian, actor, and collector of Chicano art. Marin donated more than 700 artworks from his personal collection to the museum, which features paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, and mixed media works by artists such as Carlos Almaraz, Frank Romero, Patssi Valdez, Gronk, and Ester Hernandez.
“The Cheech is not just a museum, it’s a cultural center that celebrates the diversity and creativity of the Chicano community,” Marin said in a statement. “I’m proud to share my collection with the public and to showcase the talent and vision of these artists who have been overlooked for too long.”
The Cheech also hosts educational programs, workshops, lectures, film screenings, and performances that aim to engage and inspire visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The museum collaborates with local schools, universities, community organizations, and other cultural institutions to promote the appreciation and understanding of Chicano art and culture.
Since its opening, The Cheech has attracted more than 100,000 visitors and received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. The museum has also been recognized with several awards and honors, including the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
“The Cheech is a testament to the power of art to connect people and to tell stories that matter,” said Drew Oberjuerge, the executive director of The Cheech. “We are grateful for the support and enthusiasm of our visitors, donors, partners, and staff who have made this first year a success. We look forward to continuing our mission of celebrating Chicano art and culture for years to come.”
