Frank L. Madla Building

The Works of Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. 

Brother Cletus Behlman was born in St. Louis, Missouri and was one of twelve children. He was educated in Catholic schools and later graduated from St. Mary’s University. In 1958, he took his final vows as a Marianist brother and with the permission of the Society of Mary, he pursued art as his vocation. He received training at the Chicago Institute of Art and Washington University. Brother Cletus returned to St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in 1977 bolstering the institution’s art program. It was said of the introverted Cletus that he used his artistic talent to connect with people while bringing them together. His colorful style is a window to his soul; a soul that was exuberant.

Brother Cletus was a prolific painter and donated several hundred paintings to nonprofit organizations to help raise funds. His colorful works are signed simply ‘Cletus’.

“The themes of his art were mostly religious, but overall his work was a “celebration of life.” His art came in metal, acrylic, watercolor, batik, pastel, stained glass, ceramic, handmade paper, linoleum, crayon and other media” --- St. Mary’s University Website

Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. (American, 1933-2016)
Mission Concepción
Oil on masonite
Signed l.m.
48 x 48 inches

The Works of Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. 

Brother Cletus Behlman was born in St. Louis, Missouri and was one of twelve children. He was educated in Catholic schools and later graduated from St. Mary’s University. In 1958, he took his final vows as a Marianist brother and with the permission of the Society of Mary, he pursued art as his vocation. He received training at the Chicago Institute of Art and Washington University. Brother Cletus returned to St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in 1977 bolstering the institution’s art program. It was said of the introverted Cletus that he used his artistic talent to connect with people while bringing them together. His colorful style is a window to his soul; a soul that was exuberant.

Brother Cletus was a prolific painter and donated several hundred paintings to nonprofit organizations to help raise funds. His colorful works are signed simply ‘Cletus’.

“The themes of his art were mostly religious, but overall his work was a “celebration of life.” His art came in metal, acrylic, watercolor, batik, pastel, stained glass, ceramic, handmade paper, linoleum, crayon and other media” --- St. Mary’s University Website

 Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. (American, 1933-2016)
Mission San Jose
Oil on masonite
Signed l.r.
Frame created by the artist
36 x 42 inches

The Works of Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. 

Brother Cletus Behlman was born in St. Louis, Missouri and was one of twelve children. He was educated in Catholic schools and later graduated from St. Mary’s University. In 1958, he took his final vows as a Marianist brother and with the permission of the Society of Mary, he pursued art as his vocation. He received training at the Chicago Institute of Art and Washington University. Brother Cletus returned to St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in 1977 bolstering the institution’s art program. It was said of the introverted Cletus that he used his artistic talent to connect with people while bringing them together. His colorful style is a window to his soul; a soul that was exuberant.

Brother Cletus was a prolific painter and donated several hundred paintings to nonprofit organizations to help raise funds. His colorful works are signed simply ‘Cletus’.

“The themes of his art were mostly religious, but overall his work was a “celebration of life.” His art came in metal, acrylic, watercolor, batik, pastel, stained glass, ceramic, handmade paper, linoleum, crayon and other media” --- St. Mary’s University Website

Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. (American, 1933-2016)
Five Missions of San Antonio
Oil on panel
Unsigned
40 x 60 inches

The Works of Kathy Sosa
Kathy Sosa moved to San Antonio from Alabama as a child and immediately fell in love with the blended culture of the Texas-Mexico border region. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at St. Mary’s University, she spent years in advertising and political consulting. Kathy began her life as a painter during her late 40’s and embraced the artistic expressions of the Mestisaje culture. Her work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian Latino Center in Washington D.C. and regionally in Texas; it has also been featured on CNN and in various publications.

“Everything in my body of work is about the Mestizo culture that I live in, and I would like to bring to people’s attention to the very cool things about the blended culture in the Texas-Mexico border land… It’s a distinct culture of its own” ---Kathy Sosa 

From the Huipiles Series
The artist makes the point:  “It is important to know these are things (wearing huipiles) that are happening now! Not in the past! The wearers incorporate these cultural garments into their wardrobes…what we do is find beautiful things from our culture, beautiful things that we stumble over and see and …you are wearing it to carry something from the past forward or from the present into another place.” --- Kathy Sosa 

Kathy Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Huipilista, La Gloria
Oil on canvas

The Works of Kathy Sosa
Kathy Sosa moved to San Antonio from Alabama as a child and immediately fell in love with the blended culture of the Texas-Mexico border region. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at St. Mary’s University, she spent years in advertising and political consulting. Kathy began her life as a painter during her late 40’s and embraced the artistic expressions of the Mestisaje culture. Her work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian Latino Center in Washington D.C. and regionally in Texas; it has also been featured on CNN and in various publications.

“Everything in my body of work is about the Mestizo culture that I live in, and I would like to bring to people’s attention to the very cool things about the blended culture in the Texas-Mexico border land… It’s a distinct culture of its own” ---Kathy Sosa

From the Huipiles Series
The artist makes the point:  “It is important to know these are things (wearing huipiles) that are happening now! Not in the past! The wearers incorporate these cultural garments into their wardrobes…what we do is find beautiful things from our culture, beautiful things that we stumble over and see and …you are wearing it to carry something from the past forward or from the present into another place.”--- Kathy Sosa

Kathy Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Mariachi Guitarista
Oil on canvas
Signed l.l.
28 x 22 inches

Though the subject is not technically wearing a huipil, she is in the traditional mariachi ‘traje’ (suit). This piece and the Huipilista, La Gloria are a pair. The sitter is a true person who played at the La Margarita Mexican Restaurant in San Antonio’s Market Square.

The Works of Kathy Sosa
Kathy Sosa moved to San Antonio from Alabama as a child and immediately fell in love with the blended culture of the Texas-Mexico border region. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at St. Mary’s University, she spent years in advertising and political consulting. Kathy began her life as a painter during her late 40’s and embraced the artistic expressions of the Mestisaje culture. Her work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian Latino Center in Washington D.C. and regionally in Texas; it has also been featured on CNN and in various publications.

“Everything in my body of work is about the Mestizo culture that I live in, and I would like to bring to people’s attention to the very cool things about the blended culture in the Texas-Mexico border land… It’s a distinct culture of its own” ---Kathy Sosa

From the Huipiles Series
The artist makes the point:  “It is important to know these are things (wearing huipiles) that are happening now! Not in the past! The wearers incorporate these cultural garments into their wardrobes…what we do is find beautiful things from our culture, beautiful things that we stumble over and see and …you are wearing it to carry something from the past forward or from the present into another place.” --- Kathy Sosa

Kathy Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Cactus Garden Huipilista
Oil portrait on water color papger
Unsigned
30 ½ x 30 ½ inches

The painting depicts a very proud, young Latina posing in front of a native cactus. Her lips mirror the red of the cactus bloom. What comes across is her pride in her Mexican roots, her pride in her culture and the culture of the Mestizos of the Texas borderlands.  Her confidence and attitude are plainly visible.

The Works of Kathy Sosa
Kathy Sosa moved to San Antonio from Alabama as a child and immediately fell in love with the blended culture of the Texas-Mexico border region. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at St. Mary’s University, she spent years in advertising and political consulting. Kathy began her life as a painter during her late 40’s and embraced the artistic expressions of the Mestisaje culture. Her work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian Latino Center in Washington D.C. and regionally in Texas; it has also been featured on CNN and in various publications.

“Everything in my body of work is about the Mestizo culture that I live in, and I would like to bring to people’s attention to the very cool things about the blended culture in the Texas-Mexico border land… It’s a distinct culture of its own” ---Kathy Sosa

From the Huipiles Series
The artist makes the point:  “It is important to know these are things (wearing huipiles) that are happening now! Not in the past! The wearers incorporate these cultural garments into their wardrobes…what we do is find beautiful things from our culture, beautiful things that we stumble over and see and …you are wearing it to carry something from the past forward or from the present into another place.” --- Kathy Sosa

Kathy Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
A River Runs through It:  San Antonio on my Mind
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
48 ¼ x 30  ¼ inches

The subject is symbolic of San Antonio.  The blue ribbon tying up her hair represents the San Antonio River winding through her tresses as it does through the city. Objects ornamenting her upswept hair are all elemental San Antonio objects: La Virgin de Guadalupe, the Alamo, a taco, a cascarón and a margarita. 

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Mama Mia
Oil on canvas
Signed l.m.
40 x 60 inches

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Los Tres
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
60 x 36 inches

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Portrait of Naomi
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
30 x 36 inches

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Hidden Heroes Series
This series of portraits is a tribute to the unheralded heroes of our own society. These images showcase people doing jobs that are the foundation building and growth. As laborers, their accomplishments often go unacknowledged. These blue color jobs are not the occupations of elite or intellectuals. These are the faces of construction workers, cooks, electricians, carpenters and groundskeepers; these are honorable people doing honorable hard work. These unsung heroes enable many of us the opportunity to become educated and to achieve goals.

Vaqueros Series

The Mexican Vaquero is the original American Cowboy.

The land on which this university sits was a part of El Camino Real, the Royal Road of New Spain. During the 18^th Century, Tejano Vaqueros and Rancheros along with Mission Indians drove cattle up El Camino Real over these fields. The vaqueros drove cattle through Texas to Louisiana and north on the orders of Don Bernardo Galvez, Governor of Spanish Louisiana. George Washington requested aid from Galvez in 1779 during the American revolutionary war. In addition to the cattle, which were needed for food, a voluntary contribution of approximately 10,000 pesos was sent from the Tejano citizens. Many of the vaqueros stayed to fight against the British in Don Bernardo de Galvez’s army during the revolutionary war.

A&M-SA was awarded State Historic Site Designation, which recognizes the historical relevance of this land, and by extension, the vaqueros and their role in American history.

These portraits showcase descendants of the Mexican and Spanish vaqueros. The vaqueros of long ago brought their horsemanship skills and their work ethic, teaching and working, alongside their Anglo counterparts.

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Little Mr. Boone
Oil on canvas
Signed l.l.
60 x 40 inches

Joe Villareal
Mis Recuerdos
Oil on Canvas
40" x 30"

Lionel Sosa
Dr. Ernest E. Thomas (Living in my Skin: Black Men in San Antonio Tell their Stories)
Oil on Linen
30" x 24"

Lionel Sosa
Michael J. Johnson (Living in my Skin: Black Men in San Antonio Tell their Stories)
Oil on Linen
30" x 24" 

The Works of Mario Garza
Born and raised on San Antonio’s East Side, Mario Garza is a self-taught artist, a musician and a composer. He is the son of Mexican born parents who encouraged him to express himself through music and art. Whether being allowed to paint murals on their walls or practice his music in the living room, he and his brothers were given room to create. In addition to his photography, Garza has also worked in watercolors, oils and pastels.

“I was 20 years old when I purchased my first 35mm SLR Minolta XE 5 camera and began taking serious black and white and color photos.  I’m a self-taught artist using a variety of mixed media to produce subtle to bold dramatic portraits and landscape paintings. I use my photography and digital imagery to pursue a photorealism style of painting. By using my digital images as a model, I am able to get a unique representation of a one-of-a-kind original work of art. My inspiration comes from portrait artist John Singer Sargent, Wyeth, the Photo Secessionists and the Abstract and Neo Expressionists of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s.” --- Mario Garza  

The Leaders Series

Mario Garza (American, b. 1954)
Crescencio Davila, Inaugural SGA President
Mixed media on cold press watercolor paper
Signed l.l.
6 x 4 feet

Crescencio Davila was the first Student Body President of the University and was selected as the Student Regent for the entire Texas A&M system.

The Works of Mario Garza
Born and raised on San Antonio’s East Side, Mario Garza is a self-taught artist, a musician and a composer. He is the son of Mexican born parents who encouraged him to express himself through music and art. Whether being allowed to paint murals on their walls or practice his music in the living room, he and his brothers were given room to create. In addition to his photography, Garza has also worked in watercolors, oils and pastels.

“I was 20 years old when I purchased my first 35mm SLR Minolta XE 5 camera and began taking serious black and white and color photos.  I’m a self-taught artist using a variety of mixed media to produce subtle to bold dramatic portraits and landscape paintings. I use my photography and digital imagery to pursue a photorealism style of painting. By using my digital images as a model, I am able to get a unique representation of a one-of-a-kind original work of art. My inspiration comes from portrait artist John Singer Sargent, Wyeth, the Photo Secessionists and the Abstract and Neo Expressionists of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s.” --- Mario Garza  

The Leaders Series

Mario Garza (American, b. 1954)
Karina Acosta, 2LT Texas Army National Guard
Mixed media on cold press watercolor paper
6 x 4 feet

Karina Acosta was the first person in her family to attend a college. She was the first ROTC graduate and commissioned officer from Texas A&M San Antonio.

The Works of Mario Garza
Born and raised on San Antonio’s East Side, Mario Garza is a self-taught artist, a musician and a composer. He is the son of Mexican born parents who encouraged him to express himself through music and art. Whether being allowed to paint murals on their walls or practice his music in the living room, he and his brothers were given room to create. In addition to his photography, Garza has also worked in watercolors, oils and pastels.

“I was 20 years old when I purchased my first 35mm SLR Minolta XE 5 camera and began taking serious black and white and color photos.  I’m a self-taught artist using a variety of mixed media to produce subtle to bold dramatic portraits and landscape paintings. I use my photography and digital imagery to pursue a photorealism style of painting. By using my digital images as a model, I am able to get a unique representation of a one-of-a-kind original work of art. My inspiration comes from portrait artist John Singer Sargent, Wyeth, the Photo Secessionists and the Abstract and Neo Expressionists of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s.” --- Mario Garza  

The Leaders Series

Mario Garza (American, b. 1954)
The Honorable Joe Farias, Texas State Representative, District 118
Mixed media on cold press watercolor paper
6 x 4 feet

Representative Joe Farias worked tirelessly along with Senator Frank Madla for 12 years advocating for the founding of Texas A&M San Antonio.

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Hidden Heroes Series
This series of portraits is a tribute to the unheralded heroes of our own society. These images showcase people doing jobs that are the foundation of building and growth. As laborers, their accomplishments often go unacknowledged. These are the faces of construction workers, cooks, electricians, carpenters and groundskeepers; these are honorable people doing honorable hard work. These unsung heroes enable many of us the opportunity to become educated and to achieve our goals.

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Lupita
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
40 x 60

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.” --- Lionel Sosa

Hidden Heroes Series
This series of portraits is a tribute to the unheralded heroes of our own society. These images showcase people doing jobs that are the foundation of building and growth. As laborers, their accomplishments often go unacknowledged. These are the faces of construction workers, cooks, electricians, carpenters and groundskeepers; these are honorable people doing honorable hard work. These unsung heroes enable many of us the opportunity to become educated and to achieve our goals.

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Señor Gomez
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r
60 x 40 inches

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Hidden Heroes Series
This series of portraits is a tribute to the unheralded heroes of our own society. These images showcase people doing jobs that are the foundation of building and growth. As laborers, their accomplishments often go unacknowledged. These are the faces of construction workers, cooks, electricians, carpenters and groundskeepers; these are honorable people doing honorable hard work. These unsung heroes enable many of us the opportunity to become educated and to achieve our goals.

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Juan Carrasco
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
60 x 40 inches

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Hidden Heroes Series
This series of portraits is a tribute to the unheralded heroes of our own society. These images showcase people doing jobs that are the foundation of building and growth. As laborers, their accomplishments often go unacknowledged. These are the faces of construction workers, cooks, electricians, carpenters and groundskeepers; these are honorable people doing honorable hard work. These unsung heroes enable many of us the opportunity to become educated and to achieve our goals.

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Neto
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
60 x 40 inches

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Hidden Heroes Series
This series of portraits is a tribute to the unheralded heroes of our own society. These images showcase people doing jobs that are the foundation of building and growth. As laborers, their accomplishments often go unacknowledged. These are the faces of construction workers, cooks, electricians, carpenters and groundskeepers; these are honorable people doing honorable hard work. These unsung heroes enable many of us the opportunity to become educated and to achieve our goals.

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Raymond & His Grandson
Oil on canvas
Signed l.m.
60 x 40 inches

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Hidden Heroes Series
This series of portraits is a tribute to the unheralded heroes of our own society. These images showcase people doing jobs that are the foundation of building and growth. As laborers, their accomplishments often go unacknowledged. These are the faces of construction workers, cooks, electricians, carpenters and groundskeepers; these are honorable people doing honorable hard work. These unsung heroes enable many of us the opportunity to become educated and to achieve our goals.

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Apprentice
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
60 x 40 inches

Lionel Sosa
Portrait of Greg Garcia
Oil on Canvas
15 1/2" x 19 1/2"

The Works of Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. 

Brother Cletus Behlman was born in St. Louis, Missouri and was one of twelve children. He was educated in Catholic schools and later graduated from St. Mary’s University. In 1958, he took his final vows as a Marianist brother and with the permission of the Society of Mary, he pursued art as his vocation. He received training at the Chicago Institute of Art and Washington University. Brother Cletus returned to St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in 1977 bolstering the institution’s art program. It was said of the introverted Cletus that he used his artistic talent to connect with people while bringing them together. His colorful style is a window to his soul; a soul that was exuberant.

Brother Cletus was a prolific painter and donated several hundred paintings to nonprofit organizations to help raise funds. His colorful works are signed simply ‘Cletus’.

“The themes of his art were mostly religious, but overall his work was a “celebration of life.” His art came in metal, acrylic, watercolor, batik, pastel, stained glass, ceramic, handmade paper, linoleum, crayon and other media” --- St. Mary’s University Website

Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. (American, 1933-2016)
Mission Concepción, San Antonio, Texas
Watercolor on paper
Signed l.r., inscribed with title & location l.l.
30 x 22 inches

The Works of Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. 

Brother Cletus Behlman was born in St. Louis, Missouri and was one of twelve children. He was educated in Catholic schools and later graduated from St. Mary’s University. In 1958, he took his final vows as a Marianist brother and with the permission of the Society of Mary, he pursued art as his vocation. He received training at the Chicago Institute of Art and Washington University. Brother Cletus returned to St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in 1977 bolstering the institution’s art program. It was said of the introverted Cletus that he used his artistic talent to connect with people while bringing them together. His colorful style is a window to his soul; a soul that was exuberant.

Brother Cletus was a prolific painter and donated several hundred paintings to nonprofit organizations to help raise funds. His colorful works are signed simply ‘Cletus’.

“The themes of his art were mostly religious, but overall his work was a “celebration of life.” His art came in metal, acrylic, watercolor, batik, pastel, stained glass, ceramic, handmade paper, linoleum, crayon and other media” --- St. Mary’s University Website

Brother Cletus Behlman, S.M. (American, 1933-2016)
Mission San Jose, San Antonio, Texas
Watercolor on paper
Signed l.r., inscribed with title & location l.l.
22 x 30 inches

The Works of Joe R. Villarreal

Joe R. Villarreal (American, b. 1953)
Let the Children Play
Oil on canvas
Signed, dated ‘2014’ and copyrighted, l.r.
46 x 62 inches

The simplicity of children playing is a particular theme favorite to Villarreal. He pictures the children smiling and carefree under a shady pecan tree. The children interact not only with each other but with simple objects and backyard animals, a scene becoming increasingly rare. 

The Works of Joe R. Villarreal

Joe R. Villarreal (American, b. 1953)
El Carnaval    
Oil on canvas
Signed, dated ’97 and copyrighted l.r.
30 x 40 inches

The Works of Joe R. Villarreal

Joe R. Villarreal (American, b. 1953)
Mi Trabajo y Mi Familia
Oil on canvas
Signed and dated ‘2006’, l.r.
24 x 30 inches

Joe R. Villareal
Jacks 
Oil on Canvas
40" X 60"

The Works of Lionel Sosa
Lionel Sosa was raised in humble neighborhoods of San Antonio’s west side, it was an upbringing filled with the rich elements of Mexican-American culture. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Marine Corp until his creative talents landed him in the advertising business.

This Tejano Renaissance man is well known for his ability to connect with Hispanic-American markets as both a political consultant and advertising pioneer. In 1995, Sosa retired from his highly successful advertising business to devote more time to his family and to his painting alongside his wife, Kathy Sosa.

In addition to being a naturally talented artist, he is an accomplished writer, authoring three books and coauthoring two more.  In 2005, Sosa was recognized as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine.  He was also named to the Texas Business Hall of fame. Today, the artist devotes much of his energy serving on various nonprofit boards in San Antonio.

The artist says this of his paintings, “I am not so much trying to paint a likeness as I am the essence of the person.”

“Whatever I do, I do it with a passion.”--- Lionel Sosa

Lionel Sosa (American, b. 20^th Century)
Senator Frank L. Madla
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
40 x 30 inches

Frank Madla was a tireless advocate for San Antonio and South Texas during his 33 years as a Democratic member of the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas State Senate until his untimely death in November 2006. He collaborated with Senator Joe Farias for 12 years to bring Texas A&M-San Antonio to the forefront. 

In 2005, Madla wrote the bill later passed by the Texas Legislature authorizing the creation of A&M-SA.  Further, during the special legislative session of 2006 he convinced his fellow legislators to pass $40 million in tuition revenue bonds to make Texas A&M-San Antonio a reality.

Those who served in Texas government knew Madla as a dedicated public servant; as well as, a mentor.  Though this committed and forward thinking man did not live to see the opening of this building, his undying spirit can be felt when viewing the portrait, which does indeed capture his essence as a visionary leader.

The Works of Joe R. Villarreal

Joe R. Villarreal (American, b. 1953)
El Icecrinero
Papier maché
56 ½ x 28 x 41 ½ inches

The term “Icecrinero” was a colloquial term used in the artist’s west side neighborhood meaning Ice Cream Man.  In some areas, “Paletero” was also used to mean the peddler selling the wonderfully refreshing frozen juice treats.

This sculpture began as a study for a larger-than-life piece formed of much heavier materials and grander in scale.  As of this writing (May 2018) the main sculpture is nearing completion.

The Works of Joe R. Villarreal

Joe R. Villarreal (American, b. 1953)
Texas A&M – San Antonio Jaguar
Oil on canvas
Signed, dated ‘2011’ and copyrighted l.r.
6’ 5’’ x 15 feet

Commissioned by the University, the Texas A&M-San Antonio Jaguar painting was designed to evoke openness and power of this place and its people. A vast view and large sky surround Texas A&M University-San Antonio; symbolizing both the wide and uncluttered South Texas landscape and the unlimited potential of students’ minds.

The Works of Joe R. Villarreal

Joe R. Villarreal (American, b. 1953)
La Familia
Oil on canvas
Signed l.r.
46 x 61 ¾ inches

In this snapshot of 1960’s Mexican-American life in South Texas, the viewer sees the joy and chaos of a multigenerational home at Christmas. Breakfast tacos of barbacoa, with tamales, coffee and Big Red are cherished. A humble print of the Last Supper, an out of date wall calendar and a television set with aluminum foil attached to its antennae (improving the picture quality) complete the scene as one of a great wealth…the wealth of family love.