Arizona PBS to Host Early Screening and Panel Discussion of Pedro Guerrero Film at Mesa Arts Center

Tune in to Arizona PBS on Friday, September 18 at 8 p.m. to learn more about the life and work of one of the most sought-after photographers of the 20th century.

PHOENIX – (Aug. 21, 2015)

Join Arizona PBS at the Mesa Arts Center in September for a sneak-preview screening of an “American Masters” documentary depicting the life of one of Arizona’s most accomplished yet little known photographers, Pedro E. Guerrero. (Sept. 5, 1917-Sept. 13, 2012).

Arizona PBS is hosting an exclusive screening of “American Masters — Pedro E. Guerrero: A Photographer’s Journey” on Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 7 p.m. at the Mesa Arts Center (1 E. Main St., Mesa, AZ 85201). The documentary highlights the incredible life of the Mexican-American photographer who grew up in segregated Mesa, Arizona, and found international success at a volatile point in history.

Guerrero was a renowned photographer who worked alongside three of the 20th century’s most famous artists: architect Frank Lloyd Wright and sculptors Louise Nevelson and Alexander Calder.

This event gives viewers the opportunity to see the program before it airs on Arizona PBS on Friday, Sept. 18, at 8 p.m. In addition, a live panel will be held immediately after the screening, featuring Michael Kantor, executive producer of “American Masters,” Guerrero’s second wife and archivist Dixie Legler Guerrero, his brother Fernando Guerrero, Arizona State University Professor of Architecture Michael Boyle and co-producer and co-director Raymond Telles. José Cárdenas, host of Arizona PBS’ “Horizonte” public affairs program, will moderate the panel.

The documentary, a special co-presentation of "VOCES" and “American Masters,” was carefully constructed by producers from both organizations in order to make sure that Guerrero’s story was told with accuracy and integrity. The film uses an exclusive interview with Guerrero along with his stunning images to explore the life and career of the man who overcame adversity to become one of the most sought-after photographers of his generation.

Guerrero was known for using his outsider’s eye to create insightful portraits of important architectural masterpieces. Although Guerrero was one of the most prominent and respected photographers of his time, his poignant story is largely unknown.

After the panel, all attendees will be granted entrance into “Yonder Peasant…The Photography of Pedro E. Guerrero,” the all-new gallery at Mesa Arts Center dedicated to Guerrero’s works before the exhibit opens to the public on Sept. 11.

A press reception will be held at 6:15 p.m. for members of the media and special guests. Hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be served as part of the event.

Tickets are free and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve your tickets, call the Mesa Arts box office at 480-644-6500 or click here.

The "VOCES" community engagement initiative is made possible through funding from NEA, NALAC, and Latino Public Broadcasting with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

Acclaimed biography series “American Masters” explores the lives and creative journeys of America's most enduring artistic and cultural giants. Now in its 29th season on PBS, the series is a production of THIRTEEN PRODUCTIONS LLC for WNET in New York.

Produced by Latino Public Broadcasting, “VOCES” is PBS’ signature Latino arts and culture documentary showcase and the only ongoing national television series devoted to exploring and celebrating the rich diversity of the Latino cultural experience. The series is presented by PBS SoCaL.