A life-sized statue commemorating actor and Chicano art enthusiast Cheech Marin was revealed on Tuesday, November 19, in front of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture in Riverside, California. The bronze sculpture, named “Meet Me at The Cheech,” pays tribute to Marin and his contributions to the arts and culture scene. Positioned outside the center, the statue portrays Marin with open arms, symbolizing a warm welcome to all visitors.
Renowned East Los Angeles artist Ignacio Gómez was behind the creation of “Meet Me at The Cheech.” Gómez, whose work has long focused on Chicano culture and community, shared that he drew inspiration from sketches and photographs he captured of Marin. Expressing his deep honor to be chosen for the project, Gómez mentioned his admiration for Marin’s work, stating, “I’ve been a fan of Cheech for the longest time and a few of my works are in the museum.”
Originally hailing from the predominantly Mexican-American neighborhood of Boyle Heights, Gómez has crafted various artworks, including murals and monuments honoring prominent Latinx figures like labor leader Cesar Chavez and civil rights activists Felicitas and Gonzalo Méndez. Notably, Gómez’s poster for Luis Valdez’s play “Zoot Suit” is part of the collection at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. The unveiling of the statue was a poignant moment, especially as it was the final project conceptualized and supported by former board president Ofelia Valdez-Yeager, who passed away earlier in the year.
The unveiling ceremony, attended by approximately 200 members of the Riverside community, showcased Marin’s gratitude for the statue. Reflecting on the power of Chicano art to tell stories and foster unity, Marin expressed his humility at being part of the journey in establishing Riverside as a hub for this art form.
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture stands as a testament to Marin’s dedication to Chicano art and culture. The center, which opened in June 2022 through a partnership with the Riverside Art Museum, houses Marin’s extensive private collection of Chicano art. The unveiling of the statue marks a significant milestone in honoring Marin’s legacy and contributions to the arts community.
