Day of the Book—Homosexuals have Gay Pride Day. Groundhogs have Groundhog’s Day. Daylight has Daylight Savings Day. And books? Books have UNESCO’s World Book Day, an international celebration of all bookish things. Here in Albuquerque, we’re celebrating Sunday, April 23, with a reading by three local poets—Patricia Clark Smith, E.A. (Tony) Mares and Diane Thiel—at Alfredo’s Coffee House (2104 Charlevoix SE) in Old Town. The event takes place from 3 to 5 p.m. According to the organizers, on this day, by custom, adults are asked to donate a book to a young person. Bring a book to the event, and it will be donated to Dolores Gonzales Elementary School and Washington Middle School for use in classes. For more information, call 266-0262 or go to www.abqreadfest.com.
Culture Shock
Collection of Local Poets—A release party for the brand new Harwood Anthology will occur this Friday, April 21, at—where else?—the Harwood Art Center (1114 Seventh Street NW). This beautiful compilation of work by 74 New Mexico poets is being published by Old School Books. The book was designed by the talented J.B. Bryan of La Alameda Press with cover art supplied by Sally Condon. The launch party will feature readings by a host of local poetry celebrities, including Jimmy Santiago Baca, Lisa Gill, Gary Mex Glazner, Carol Moldaw, Joe Somoza, Arthur Sze and B.A. Wingate. Come on down and celebrate poetry month in style. The event begins at 5 p.m. with readings starting at 6 p.m. 242-6367.
Culture Shock
Inside Out—Talented artist and bird enthusiast Suzanne Sbarge opens her solo show at Nüart Gallery, one of the niftier art venues on Canyon Road in Santa Fe. The exhibit features a new series of mixed media collage paintings. As in past work, expect these images to be surreal yet somehow also pleasant and comforting. The show opens Friday, April 21, with a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Runs through May 8. (505) 988-3888, www.nuartgallery.com.
