The Hudson Pride Connections Center will be presenting ”MAN/kind” in partnership with local mixed media artist and curator Ricardo Osmondo Francis from July 18, 2012 through August 31, 2012. “MAN/kind” features the works of several male artists who explore, redefine, and challenge the standard social definitions of masculinity. Throughout the ages, individuals within society have placed a premium on masculinity; therefore making it complicated for those of the “male” sex to live up to what is typically expected of them. Artists in this exhibit include: Jermaine D. Clark (photography), David Antonio Cruz (video), Ricardo Osmondo Francis (painting), Edwin Gonzalez-Ojeda (painting), Shaun El C. Leonardo (drawing and installation), Ricardo Louis (photography), Ivan Monforte (photography), Levan Mindiashivilli (painting), Cristian Tonhaiser (photography), and Mark Vinsun (painting). These artists investigate this complex subject matter in a variety of intriguing ways while expressing what masculinity means to them individually. Ricardo Francis is Artist/Curator/Director, LeonidesArts Gallery New York; Mark Vinsun is Artist/Co-Founder, LeonidesArts Gallery New York; along with Levan Mindiashivilli and Cristian Tonhaiser Artists of NES Gallery, Buenos Aires, Argentina and LeonidesArts Gallery New York.

“MAN/kind” will run until Friday August 31, 2012 at the Hudson Pride Connection Center. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday from 11 AM – 6 PM. For more information about this exhibit you may visit www.hudsonpride.org and/or contact Ricardo Francis at 917-279-5576 of [email protected]“This exhibit is another step in the Hudson Pride Center’s overall plan to provide greater support and cultural services to the residents of Jersey City and Hudson County. We are very excited to be partnering with Ricardo Francis and the other local artists to raise awareness about the vast talent in our community,” said Jonathan Lucas, Interim Executive Director of the Hudson Pride Connections Center.

Opening reception with the artists on Wednesday, July 18 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at the Hudson Pride Connections Center, 32 Jones Street, Jersey City, NJ 07306. 201-963-4779 is free to the public.