Renowned 82-year-old Chicano photographer Luis C. Garza is visiting Houston for a series of special events, including the unveiling of his solo exhibition in the East End, the opening of a group show of contemporary and established Chicano photographers, and a screening of the award-winning documentary Razón de Ser: Luis C. Garza at the 9th annual Houston Latino Film Festival.
Born in New York to a family with deep roots in South Texas and Northern Mexico, Garza moved to Los Angeles in 1965, where he became a key chronicler of the Chicano civil rights movement. His compelling images capture pivotal moments on both coasts, from the Young Lords Party’s protests and women’s rights demonstrations in New York to the vibrant activism of Los Angeles.
“The Other Side of Memory: Photographs by Luis C. Garza” is making a special stop in Houston at MECA at TBH Center (East End) as part of its U.S. museum tour, offering a rare glimpse into Garza’s personal archive. On view March 13–31, 2025, his striking black-and-white silver gelatin prints transcend traditional documentary photography, forming thought-provoking pairings that explore memory, identity, and untold histories.
PUBLIC EVENTS @ MECA at TBH CENTER featuring Luis C. Garza
Artist Reception + Book Signing: “The Other Side of Memory: Photographs by Luis C. Garza” solo exhibition | Thursday, March 13 | 6–9 PM | MECA at TBH Center (East End), 333 S. Jensen Dr., Houston 77003 | Free. The artist will be in attendance and will sign copies of his photography book ($40 each)
Film Screening – “La Raza” documentary | View Trailer | Sunday, March 30 | 3–5 PM | MECA at TBH Center (East End) | Free, $5 suggested donation
OTHER HOUSTON EVENTS with Luis C. Garza
Opening Reception: “Xicanidad: Past, Present, Futuro” group show | Wednesday, March 12 | 5:30–8:30 PM | MATCH Gallery, 3400 Main St., Houston 77002 | Free
Texas Premiere Screening at Houston Latino Film Festival: “Razón de Ser: Luis C. Garza” documentary short film | Friday, March 14 | 7–9 PM | MATCH Box 2, 3400 Main St., Houston 77002 | Tickets $14 | View Trailer
Closing Reception + Panel Discussion: “Xicanidad: Past, Present, Futuro” group show | Sunday, March 16 | 2–4 PM | MATCH Gallery, 3400 Main St., Houston 77002 | Free
For more details, email Melissa Richardson Banks or call (213) 446-3467.
BUY GARZA’S BOOK
The catalog retails for $40.00 inclusive of sales tax and USPS shipping in the 48 contiguous U.S. states. For wholesale or bulk orders, press interviews, and speaking engagements, send an inquiry by clicking HERE.
