LC4A Offered Killam Collection of Don Quixote Illustrations; TAMIU’s Jesse Shaw Led Printmaking Workshops
The Laredo Center for the Arts (LC4A), in collaboration with Cliffe Killam, presented a special exhibit, "The Quest to Dream: A Rare Collection of the First Printed Don Quixote Illustrations," held September 20 to October 9.
This extraordinary exhibit featured the first illustrations of Miguel Cervantes' classic novel, Don Quixote de la Mancha, offering a rare glimpse into the visual history of one of the world's most enduring literary masterpieces. Admission to the exhibit is free, and donations are welcome to support future educational and cultural programming. An opening reception was held Sept. 20.
Killam noted the singular nature of the event.
“It is an honor to share and participate with the community in this ‘only in Laredo event’ that is a first in the world,” Killam said.
The exhibit showcased over 70 photographs of original illustrations, printed in 1738, which belong to a personal rare book collection owned by Killam. The collection originates from the first illustrated edition, published outside of Spain, and is among the rarest in the world. The illustrations are engraved by Gerard Vander Gucht (1697-1776) who is credited with imitating the French style of combining free drawing with engraved detail and tone gradation.
Dedicated to bringing unique cultural and educational experiences to the community, Killam wanted to offer Laredoans, surrounding area residents, and students an unparalleled opportunity to connect with art, history, literature, and the timeless themes of Cervantes' work.
“As a lifelong reader and collector who admires great literary works, this exhibit brings Don Quixote to life in a way that I hope provoked interest in those familiar with the iconic book and brings joy to those who have read it. We invited visitors to experience seeing these images that share different scenes from the book that had never been displayed in this way before,” Killam said.
In partnership with the Laredo Independent School District, the exhibit welcomed nearly 600 high school students from Spanish 1 and 2 classes. These students were able to see their classroom lessons brought to life after having covered a special unit on Cervantes and Don Quixote de la Mancha in school.
The students’ experience was further enriched with printmaking workshops, led by Texas A&M International University assistant professor and director of visual arts Jesse Shaw, who provided a hands-on understanding of the art form and the historical context of the illustrations.
“The bridge between our community and Laredo ISD strengthens with these kinds of opportunities and helps us experience and influence the world around us toward a more equitable future. We are incredibly thankful to Mr. Cliffe Killam for sharing this with our students. This is a new curriculum pillar that we will continue building on each year, and we invite all other schools to come on board,” said Elizabeth R. Velasquez, High School English and Foreign Language Dean for LISD, “we are the protagonists of the change we desire and the authors of our own story.”
"The Quest to Dream" will be an evolving project aimed at building momentum with the community and expanding to more students, educators, artists, and surrounding residents.
"We were thrilled to present this exhibit to the Laredo community," said Alejandra Urrabazo-Martinez, Laredo Center for the Arts board member, "Bringing this to life, in collaboration with Cliffe Killam and many dedicated individuals, is a very special project. Through this exhibit, we hope to inspire students and the public to appreciate the richness of our literary heritage. And personal to me, Don Quixote is a beautiful reminder of my late mother’s love of literature, the enduring human spirit, and the desire to dream, just as Don Quixote does, regardless of the odds.”
Killam concurred, noting, “What makes Don Quixote such a unique story is how it operates on so many different levels and interpretations. The novel can be read as funny and comedic, tragic and sad, a satire, a social polemic, psychological study of its characters, an exploration of fantasy and reality, and delves into philosophies of humanity, religion, politics without telling or leading the reader what to think and leaving matters to the reader’s own interpretation. Ultimately, the book explores the intangible ways of what it means to be human through great passion, tragedy, and suffering.”
Quixote’s character is often seen as a symbol of one who pursues a goal, vision, or ambition that may seem out of touch with reality, much like innovators or social change-makers who aim for transformative goals despite skepticism. The illustrations explore his view and the themes of identity, delusion, and the human need for purpose, which remain deeply relevant today.
The exhibit invited visitors to reflect on these timeless themes and to consider how the story continues to inspire contemporary audiences.
Laredo Center for the Arts sponsors and partners that helped bring the exhibit to life are Cliffe Killam, Killam Company, IBC and Commerce Bank, Donato D. Ramos Law, Texas Community Bank, PNC Bank, Texas A&M International University, and the D.D. Hachar Charitable Trust.
Killam said he “wished that people enjoy the show and the opportunity to see these unique pieces of art presented in a way that no one else in the world has had the opportunity to see before.” He added, “…and please remember to read Don Quixote, and as you move on in life, be sure to read it again and again.”
For more information about upcoming events, please contact the Laredo Center for the Arts at 956.710.2084, or email information@laredocenterforthearts.org.
About The Laredo Center for the Arts
The Laredo Center for the Arts is dedicated to fostering a vibrant arts community in Laredo and the surrounding areas. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach, we strive to enhance the cultural landscape and provide enriching experiences for all.
