Mike Singer | CSUSB Office of Marketing and Communications | (760) 341-2883, ext. 78107 | msinger@csusb.edu
The CSUSB Palm Desert Campus and the Department of Communication & Media will host a special screening of “Lejanías y Nostalgia: The Art of Alfredo de Batuc” on Thursday, March 19, at 4 p.m. in the Indian Wells Theater at the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus.
The screening is free and open to the public and will include a post-film Q&A.
This unique cultural event offers attendees an intimate look into the life and work of Alfredo de Batuc, a celebrated artist born in Sonora, Mexico, who later migrated to Los Angeles as a young adult. His vibrant paintings explore themes of migration, identity, memory and cultural heritage. His work also reflects his battle with Guillain-Barré Syndrome and his deep connection to Los Angeles landmarks, such as City Hall.
“Lejanías y Nostalgia: The Art of Alfredo de Batuc” is a compelling 45-minute documentary that traces the life and artistic evolution of the acclaimed Los Angeles–based artist. The film follows de Batuc’s creative journey — from his iconic renderings of Los Angeles City Hall and his moonlit compositions to his celebrated Dolores del Río mural in Hollywood and the desert landscapes inspired by his hometown of Batuc in Sonora, Mexico. Central to the story is his remarkable recovery from Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a neurological illness that left him temporarily paralyzed and unable to paint for years.
The film features insights from leading voices in the art world. Art historian Charlene Villaseñor Black describes de Batuc’s work as “very poetic, very imaginative, drawing from the unconscious,” while art critic Mat Gleason highlights the depth of his craft, noting, “There’s so much brainwork in making his art. Sixty years of painting experience are all happening right there.” Gleason also emphasizes the lasting impact of his work: “I project hundreds of years into the future and see him certainly holding his own in art history.”
The film’s director and producer, Roberto S. Oregel, is an associate professor of communication & media at CSUSB and a filmmaker whose work focuses on Latino/a art, identity and community histories.
“Alfredo’s story is one of resilience, memory and the deep human need to create,” said Oregel. “I’m honored to share his life and artwork with our students, our campus and our community.”
The event reflects the university’s commitment to culturally relevant storytelling that uplifts the community and resonates with artists, students, veterans and anyone who has faced life-altering challenges.
The CSUSB Palm Desert Campus is located at 37500 Cook St. Parking permits are required to park on campus at all times. Permit kiosks are located on campus.
About the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus: The CSUSB Palm Desert Campus is dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience in the Coachella Valley. With a focus on academic excellence and community engagement, the campus offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to meet the diverse needs of its students and the region.
For more information about the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus, contact Mike Singer in the Office of Marketing and Communications at msinger@csusb.edu or (760) 341-2883, ext. 78107, or visit the PDC website at www.csusb.edu/pdc.
