By Marjorie Figaroa
AL DIA TODAY
MELBOURNE — In the serene landscapes of Bonita Ranch, a lush ecological agricultural retreat located in Melbourne, the Brevard Hispanic Center organized a vibrant celebration to commemorate Women’s Month, evoking the grand events of the past where artists like Leonardo Da Vinci, Miguel Ángel, and other Renaissance masters delighted in the melodies of the violin while bringing their magnificent works of art to life. Event participants enjoyed classical pieces like Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Mozart’s Eine Kleine, among others. It was a magical moment as they expressed their creativity on canvas.
The event “Painting Smiles for Brevard,” organized by the Brevard Hispanic Center, welcomed over seventy attendees on the morning of Saturday, March 30, promoting art, creativity, and camaraderie among those present.
Yenny Passanante, owner of Bonita Ranch, enthusiastically welcomed all participants by opening the doors of her beautiful event space and agricultural retreat.
Coordinated by Blanca Rubio, Program Director and a key figure in Painting Smiles for Brevard, the event stood out as an invitation to community participation and artistic expression.
“The Painting Smiles for Brevard program is based on two fundamental pillars: the first is to promote art in the community, encouraging more people to join our events to learn and improve techniques, regardless of their experience level. The second pillar is to support local artists, helping them gain visibility and integrate into the community,” explained Rubio.
Additionally, Rubio expressed gratitude to guest artist Amaris Rosario, sponsors, volunteers, participants, guest artists, and Brevard Hispanic Center President Javier Molinares, whose support has been crucial in keeping the program running.
The painting session was captivating under the guidance of artist Amaris Rosario, who showcased her talent while participants explored their creativity. Through her teachings, Rosario captured the diversity of femininity with a palette of colors that formed a true visual kaleidoscope. Her conviction that art is a means of self-expression and introspection resonated with everyone present, encouraging them to delve into their innermost thoughts and freely express their creativity on canvas.
“There is no perfection in expression,” stated Rosario. “Women are like a garden of colors, a variety that reflects their connection with their hearts.”
Yenny Passanante, owner of Bonita Ranch, passionately shared how her nursery and event venue businesses complement each other to promote sustainability and cultural enrichment. With its extensive grounds, Bonita Ranch emerged as the ideal setting for the event, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
“As Hispanic entrepreneurs in the nursery and event venue industry, we proudly represent our community. We merge our nursery business with event organization to provide sustainable alternatives to the wedding and event industry,” said Passanante. “We invite everyone to visit our nursery for plants to beautify their gardens and gifts, as well as to celebrate high-end events in a Mediterranean-influenced setting.”
At the event, both experienced artists and enthusiastic beginners could explore their artistic inclinations in a supportive and celebratory atmosphere, surrounded by art, music, and the natural beauty of the surroundings. Additionally, there were draws for beautiful plants from Bonita Ranch’s nursery and a charming balloon arrangement with products offered by BalloonsbyIva. It was a day filled with pampering and enjoyment of the magnificent art event.
The enthusiasm for the program was evident among the participants. Adalyn Cameron, an 11-year-old, was amazed by the transformative power of art, finding comfort and joy in the creative process. Her experience resonated with many others present, each building their unique connection with art.
With the sun bathing Bonita Ranch and casting a warm light on the shared laughter and memories, it was evident that the event had genuinely honored the spirit of Women’s Month. Each brushstroke and violin note strengthened the bonds within the community, leaving an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to be present.
The event featured artists such as Amaris Rosario and volunteers from the Brevard Hispanic Center, including Zandra Ramirez (artist), Randa Yordi (artist), Leala Dunn (Art Jam artist), Danyele Murchison (Art Jam artist), Nivia Suarez (ELI, English teacher), Sasha Lukuts, Ingrid Murcillo, Karina Caminos, Rosa Garcia, and Darling Bazurto. Guest artists included Rafael Picon (sculptor), Lina Gomez (artist), Arta Steven (Art Jam artist), Donna Paloy (Art Jam artist), and Andre Swank (Art Jam artist). The prestigious violinist Char Good also delighted everyone with her wonderful talent.
The event sponsors were Bonita Ranch at 4215 Lake Washington Rd, Melbourne, FL 32934, Taquería Restaurant, La Bendición de Dios, at 2000 Palm Bay Rd. NE, Palm Bay, Florida, zip code 32905 (Tel: 321-261-7838, Opening hours: 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.); Mi Cabaña Mexican Restaurant at 4270 Minton Rd. Ste 104, Melbourne, Florida, 32904 (Tel: 321-312-4747); and Suntree (7700 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940). The online store BalloonsbyIva also offers customized event arrangements (Tel: 321-557-8333).
For more information about the event and future activities, please contact the Center by calling (321) 327-8938, visiting the website at www.brevardhispaniccenter.com, searching on Facebook under the name Brevard Hispanic Center, or emailing [email protected].