Life & Arts

By Karla Reyna and Selena Borjas Laredo is mostly known for having the biggest in-land export-import bridge, and port of entry, however there is a rich history behind this city of seven flags, each one representing a different facet of its heritage, and the least known of them is the one representing the Republic of Rio Grande.   (more…)

Christina Xu is an artist and blogger currently residing in Laredo. Her vehement and sensual paintings were featured earlier this year in The Bridge’s February issue. Her shared exhibit “Eye of the Beholder” at local Gallery 201 was a memorable experience shared by all in attendance. Xu, always at work producing canvas after canvas and keeping up with her online blog, is furthering her creative endeavors with her latest summer project: Babes Who Read. (more…)

  Photo by Rafael Garcia of CC42 Photography Gayle Aker Rodriguez is Laredo’s most vivacious gallerista. She is the owner of downtown’s Gallery 201, which hosts much of the city’s Mexican, Texan, and local artwork. The gallery exhibits an array of art –including but not limited to—paintings, flamenco dance, poetry readings, and launch parties. Gayle’s diverse love of the arts allows her to use her gallery to give local citizens and visitors of Laredo a chance to socialize and mingle in a new vibrant and cultural ambiance that isn’t felt elsewhere. Gallery 201 is a unique piece of Laredo for everyone to visit and love. (more…)

The revitalization of downtown Laredo is in full effect. The Organic Man Coffee Trike—originally a regular tenant at the downtown Farmers Market before setting up a trendy bricks and motor business—has now relocated to a cozy site on the popular Iturbide Street next to On the Rocks Tavern, another local favorite. Owners have pulled out all the stops to extend a unique coffee service to Laredo locals and visitors. (more…)