EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, submitted a Congressional Record on Thursday, April 16 to honor El Paso artist Hal Marcus.
As KTSM 9 News previously reported, Marcus died on Sunday, April 12 at the age of 74, according to an obituary sent out on behalf of his family.
Beloved El Paso artist Hal Marcus dies at 74
Marcus was known for his bright, colorful images that captured the bi-national nature of the borderland.
Hal Marcus. Photo courtesy of family.
Here is Escobar’s full statement on Marcus:
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a remarkable artist, musician, and proud El Pasoan, Hal Marcus.
“For decades, Hal Marcus helped shape the artistic spirit of El Paso, leaving an indelible imprint through his creative works and the countless individuals and institutions he uplifted along the way. Hal brought joy, imagination, and a sense of possibility to those around him. His artistic contributions captured the essence of the borderland region with a distinctive and enduring style.
“As a steward of history, Hal was deeply devoted to preserving and promoting early regional art, helping elevate awareness of El Paso’s rich cultural heritage and ensuring future generations could learn from and be inspired by it.
“The passing of Hal Marcus is a profound loss for El Paso. Yet his legacy lives on in his beautiful and loving family, the vibrant cultural landscape he helped, the artists he inspired, and the community he brought together.
“May he rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire us all.”
On Sunday, April 26, Casa Auto Group is inviting the community to honor the life and legacy of Hal with the unveiling one of his most iconic works, “El Paso Gracias – Adios.”
The unveiling event will be from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday at Casa Ford, located at 5815 Montana Ave. The event will feature a tribute performance by Eden Performing Arts, at 1 and 2 p.m., refreshments provided by Cafe Mayapan, select artwork and books available for purchase and additional works by Marcus on display throughout the showroom.
Additionally, there will also be a special presentation by Dr. Duncan Earle “The First Thanksgiving”.
Casa Auto Group said Marcus was more than just an artist and the unveiling artwork will “continue to be shared with the community he loved.”
“Hal was more than an artist. He was a teacher and a man who lived with purpose all the way to the end. His work captured the spirit of El Paso and the people who call it home.
“His relationship with Luke Lowenfield was both personal and creative. Together, they told stories that reflected this community and the values that define it.
“As we unveil El Paso Gracias a Dios, it finds a new home at Casa Ford, where his work can continue to be shared with the community he loved.
“This painting has touched generations and now stands as part of the legacy he leaves behind.
We invite you to gather, reflect, and celebrate a life that made a lasting impact on El Paso.”
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