The Rhode Island Latino Artists Network (RILAN) is an artists collective created by RILA to support, create and stimulate artistic activities and cultural interaction among Latinx artists and non-Latinos. The RILAN Collective meets the last Thursday of every month at La Galería del Pueblo in Central Falls. To be in the know about our MeetUps and other opportunities to work with RILA, sign up for our eNewsletter. Latinx artists, sign up to be in the Collective here ➤
Invited Artists | Borders | Fronteras | September - December 2024
This is an art exhibition exploring the physical, emotional, and cultural divides that shape identities, communities, and migration through a diverse range of visual and multimedia works.
Gallery hours are by appointment only: lagaleria@rilatinoarts.org.
Gallery hours are by appointment only: lagaleria@rilatinoarts.org.
Invited Artists | Borders | Fronteras • September- December 2024
Looking Forward (2024)
Acrylic on canvas
I’m a surrealist Puertorican artist. I enjoy painting dreamlike paintings that evoke positive emotions and tell stories. My favorite mediums to use are acrylic and oil paint, as well as charcoal because when I draw with it, it feels like painting. The paintings I create are vibrant and saturated with color. I am inspired by both surrealist and impressionist artists for the ideas they communicated and the emotions they expressed in their art. Art helps me navigate life.
When thinking about Fronteras, I think about the vision I have for my art career and the journeys I take to get to where I want to be.
When thinking about Fronteras, I think about the vision I have for my art career and the journeys I take to get to where I want to be.
Abuela Mía
16" x 20", Photograph
The theme of Borders/Fronteras resonated with me on a deeply personal level. I interpreted it as the boundary between life and the transition to the afterlife.
The images I am presenting are of my 96-year-old grandmother. I wanted to capture her still being herself in her own home while also highlighting how relatable this stage of life is.
The images I am presenting are of my 96-year-old grandmother. I wanted to capture her still being herself in her own home while also highlighting how relatable this stage of life is.
Fragmentos Culturaltes
Acrylic on canvas
En este arte, utilice pintura acrílica para darle vida a mi visión.
Representando en armonía y varios colores, las diferencias socioculturales de latinoamericana en estados unidos fuera de las "fronteras" que nos separan.
Porque sin importar las diferentes barreras: territoriales, culturales y religiosas, somos todos iguales cuando compartimos un mismo sueño.
Representando en armonía y varios colores, las diferencias socioculturales de latinoamericana en estados unidos fuera de las "fronteras" que nos separan.
Porque sin importar las diferentes barreras: territoriales, culturales y religiosas, somos todos iguales cuando compartimos un mismo sueño.
………………..
In this work of art, I used acrylic paint to bring my vision to life. The colors harmoniously represent the sociocultural differences of Latin Americans in the United States beyond the "borders" that separate us.
Because, regardless of the different barriers—territorial, cultural, and religious—we are all the same when we share the same dream.
Yuk! (2024)
24x30, Mixed Media, Acrylic
Smile
Pen & Ink on Canvas
Pen & Ink on Canvas
Both paintings are self portraits and deal with my mental dislike for myself and the borders and walls I put up so no one knows me on a personal level or hurts me more than I already have self hurt myself.
Yuck! represents my young self and my teenage years. Smile (Autodesprecio) deals with the older me and how I'm always being told to smile, especially when posing for a picture. They represent the insecurities and dislike/discomfort I have for myself.
Yuck! represents my young self and my teenage years. Smile (Autodesprecio) deals with the older me and how I'm always being told to smile, especially when posing for a picture. They represent the insecurities and dislike/discomfort I have for myself.
La Equis C/S (2024)
16 x 20, Photograph
El Paso, Texas, where I grew up, shares a border with Mexico, like other Southwestern states such as Arizona, California, and New Mexico. Many residents frequently move between the two countries, living at the intersection of two cultures. In El Paso, these cultures have blended into one.
I took this photo while standing in a quiet neighborhood near the border highway in El Paso. The large red "X" you see across the border is in Ciudad Juárez, México, and physically dividing the two is the famous border wall. To me, this view symbolizes the story of two cities and two countries, but not necessarily two different ways of life.
La Equis represents the convergence of these cultures. It reminds me that in border cities like El Paso and Juárez, people's lives intersect daily, erasing any sense of division. While the Wall physically separates the two countries, it cannot undo the unity symbolized by La Equis.
NOTE: This photograph has an accompanying video that can be viewed on location, at La Galería del Pueblo.
I took this photo while standing in a quiet neighborhood near the border highway in El Paso. The large red "X" you see across the border is in Ciudad Juárez, México, and physically dividing the two is the famous border wall. To me, this view symbolizes the story of two cities and two countries, but not necessarily two different ways of life.
La Equis represents the convergence of these cultures. It reminds me that in border cities like El Paso and Juárez, people's lives intersect daily, erasing any sense of division. While the Wall physically separates the two countries, it cannot undo the unity symbolized by La Equis.
NOTE: This photograph has an accompanying video that can be viewed on location, at La Galería del Pueblo.
Dientes de oro AmoPVD/ Gold Teeth LovePVD (2024)
30x24, Acrylic on canvas
Self Love
18x24, Acrylic on canvas
I am a Latiné Rhode Island public artist. The ability to absorb and feel the environment around the area where my art will be located has become a tradition within my creations, as has the storytelling behind the artwork itself. Most of my work is figurative surrealism art, although my work is very diverse in style and is based on a particular project goal and mission.
As an artist whose parents are both immigrants I could not resist but to apply for this call, and the ability to represent my family and ancestors. It also represents my friends and loved ones who have also experienced crossing borders with
their family.
As an artist whose parents are both immigrants I could not resist but to apply for this call, and the ability to represent my family and ancestors. It also represents my friends and loved ones who have also experienced crossing borders with
their family.
Shadow's Guadalupe (2013)
116.5 x 26, Pen on paper
Shadow Morales is a proud Oaxaqueño, hard-worker, and my tio. Being an artist is the very last thing he would consider himself. His art takes on influences from his Mexican heritage and the Chicano culture he was surrounded with when he arrived in this country in the 1980s. To Latinos, success is defined through an education or by hustling.
Naturally, it is hard for them to see any value in the art they may
unknowingly create. In 2013, my Tio Shadow dedicated two pieces to Chuko, my father. 11 years unnoticed - I wanted to show people his talent at the Border|Frontera exhibition.
Fronteras separate land, people, and families and break our histories. To me, Shadow's art is an example of resistance. As you can see, his art takes inspiration from the cultural aspects of Mexicans and Chicanos.
Naturally, it is hard for them to see any value in the art they may
unknowingly create. In 2013, my Tio Shadow dedicated two pieces to Chuko, my father. 11 years unnoticed - I wanted to show people his talent at the Border|Frontera exhibition.
Fronteras separate land, people, and families and break our histories. To me, Shadow's art is an example of resistance. As you can see, his art takes inspiration from the cultural aspects of Mexicans and Chicanos.
Orquídea de Metal (2024)
Metalwork
Through my creativity, I want to emphasize the beauty my culture has highlighted, especially in its connection to nature and the importance of preserving it.
The theme of Borders and Fronteras inspired me to create and submit this piece—a metal orchid made from scrap metal. The orchid holds deep significance for both my family and Colombian culture.
The way the sculpture reflects light reminds me of the importance of holding onto core values. It reflects the resilience of metal while also symbolizing the delicate nature of an orchid, which requires care to thrive. Yet, when in its natural habitat, it can flourish beautifully.
The theme of Borders and Fronteras inspired me to create and submit this piece—a metal orchid made from scrap metal. The orchid holds deep significance for both my family and Colombian culture.
The way the sculpture reflects light reminds me of the importance of holding onto core values. It reflects the resilience of metal while also symbolizing the delicate nature of an orchid, which requires care to thrive. Yet, when in its natural habitat, it can flourish beautifully.
Hermandad de Vecinos (2024)
11.8 x 11.8, Watercolor and Mixed Media on wood
When I think of the word Fronteras, I think of the border that separates the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
The ascending Dove with a bright sun rise represents a new day, filled with hope, light and goodness. The hands are symbol of two diverse countries coming together, and putting differences aside. The flowers and greenery present growth, celebration of life, despite all the dark history. At the bottom are barbwires, blood drops, tangled by past roots.
Growing up in the D.R I always heard the only thing that divides both countries, is barbwires. I hope someday to visit our Neighbor country, Haiti.
I created this to represent a dream I’ve always had, for both countries to live in peace and be an example to other countries.
The ascending Dove with a bright sun rise represents a new day, filled with hope, light and goodness. The hands are symbol of two diverse countries coming together, and putting differences aside. The flowers and greenery present growth, celebration of life, despite all the dark history. At the bottom are barbwires, blood drops, tangled by past roots.
Growing up in the D.R I always heard the only thing that divides both countries, is barbwires. I hope someday to visit our Neighbor country, Haiti.
I created this to represent a dream I’ve always had, for both countries to live in peace and be an example to other countries.
Churrasquin na Calçada (2024)
22 x 28, Acrylic on canvas
I constantly reflect on Banksy's phrase, “Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.” I disagree.
Anytime I go into a project, I look for the challenge. A never-ending phase of experimentation for a subsequent project where I will ultimately do the same. I reach for another planet so I may land on stars (poetic).
With so, when producing art, I solely disturb. It is a matter of comforting the disturbance. Regaining control of it so it becomes presentable. At the end, the disturbance of each piece will live with me, and I find comfort at the slight chance the next process will be clean and direct to the point – I hope it doesn’t.
In this piece, I aimed at comforting the disturbance of missing home by capturing it in abstraction. You now fulfill it with your own homesickness. Let me keep some of mine.
Anytime I go into a project, I look for the challenge. A never-ending phase of experimentation for a subsequent project where I will ultimately do the same. I reach for another planet so I may land on stars (poetic).
With so, when producing art, I solely disturb. It is a matter of comforting the disturbance. Regaining control of it so it becomes presentable. At the end, the disturbance of each piece will live with me, and I find comfort at the slight chance the next process will be clean and direct to the point – I hope it doesn’t.
In this piece, I aimed at comforting the disturbance of missing home by capturing it in abstraction. You now fulfill it with your own homesickness. Let me keep some of mine.
East / West (2024)
16 x 20, Spray paint & stencil on canvas
My work typically consists of spray paint and stencils on canvas, as well as block printing and design. The theme Borders/Fronteras was a difficult theme for me to embrace. It spent months thinking about what I would do.
Whenever I thought about the idea of “borders,” I kept thinking about birds. Birds have no sense of borders or separation amongst towns, states, countries, or even continents. Birds travel all over the place at will, experiencing the world as one large expansive destination. Birds don’t have any sense of borders, they simply just accept Earth as their home.
Whenever I thought about the idea of “borders,” I kept thinking about birds. Birds have no sense of borders or separation amongst towns, states, countries, or even continents. Birds travel all over the place at will, experiencing the world as one large expansive destination. Birds don’t have any sense of borders, they simply just accept Earth as their home.
You will Grow to be King (2023)
15 x 18, Acrylic paint on paper board framed
I am a visual artist, designer and muralist based in Rhode Island. My style is flexible and may change based on the demands of each individual project. For instance my mural work can be described as bold, playful or colorful.
Meanwhile, my canvas paintings give me the opportunity to be more painterly with brushy line quality and more abstract.
When I contemplate the theme “Fronteras”, I think of the borders crossed by millions in search of a better life. Both my parents were originally from the Dominican Republic and had their fair share of borders.
Meanwhile, my canvas paintings give me the opportunity to be more painterly with brushy line quality and more abstract.
When I contemplate the theme “Fronteras”, I think of the borders crossed by millions in search of a better life. Both my parents were originally from the Dominican Republic and had their fair share of borders.
Invited Artists | Portraits of Guadalupe | April - August 2024
Su Pueblo en El Extranjero
Ink & acrylic on canvas
My family has always felt very close to la "Virgencita" as my Grandma calls her. I was around thirteen when I became aware of religion and what it calls us to. La Virgencita has been a guiding light for me, as she’s been for many. She is a constant reminder of the power of love, joy, consolation and hope. I can’t really explain it, I felt like I needed to do this, a very strong pull. Maybe this is the start of something new for me.
Guadalupe, Mi Corazón
6" x 6", Acrylic on wood
I am a Mexican-American self-taught artist originally from the West Coast and now I live in Providence. Our Lady of Guadalupe is my spiritual connection to my culture.
It has been said that in the image we all know of Our Lady of Guadalupe, there is a sign that she is pregnant. In this art piece, I decided to show this through the glow on her face rather than showing her belly. The heart is a symbol of the heartbeat of the child she carries, and of the love that emanates from all who follow her.
It has been said that in the image we all know of Our Lady of Guadalupe, there is a sign that she is pregnant. In this art piece, I decided to show this through the glow on her face rather than showing her belly. The heart is a symbol of the heartbeat of the child she carries, and of the love that emanates from all who follow her.
Virgencita Guadalupe
16 x 20, Acrylic on canvas
My dad is from Cuba and my mom was born in England and her family are Jewish and fled the Nazi's. Because neither side was religious, I had to find my own spirituality. My Cuban abuela was the one who had altars in her house with different saints and I was always interested in this. I immediately found comfort with the Virgencita Guadalupe. I took her in as if she was my own! I began painting her, praying to her, decorating my home with her and wearing her around my neck. These are the reasons I am submitting my art.
Café Con La Virgen (2024)
8 x 10, Photograph
I entered my photograph of Our Lady of Guadalupe because I admire what she represents to the Mexican culture and all of Latin America. I have always looked at Our Lady of Guadalupe with such awe and curiosity of her story and how beautiful she is portrayed by various Latino artists, especially in Mexico. She is a symbol of a woman that gives hope, faith and protection to her pueblo and it gives me pride to show my respects to Our Lady Guadalupe, with my interpretation on the intimate relationship each of us have with her in our homes, in our everyday.
In Her Eyes 2024
11 x 14, Acrylic on canvas
I was born in Mexico D. F. My family is from Michoacán, México. My creative practice mostly pertains to drawing and painting. Graffiti Art has been something I’ve grown with and feel very close to. My artistic style can be described as Graffiti like, but I feel I am yet to discover my style. I look forward to experimenting more and learning other medias and styles.
La Virgen de Guadalupe is seen as a representation of Mexico, its religion and its people. Most importantly, the indigenous people. I for one love the story of how she came to be, how she now is one of Mexico’s most valued and loved icons.
La Virgen de Guadalupe is seen as a representation of Mexico, its religion and its people. Most importantly, the indigenous people. I for one love the story of how she came to be, how she now is one of Mexico’s most valued and loved icons.
La Virgencita (2024)
24x30, Acrylic on canvas
I am a Dominican Pop Artist who lives in Providence, R.I. and enjoy painting portraits. One of my early inspirations growing up in a Catholic family was religious art. La Virgin de Guadalupe was a staple in church and on Univision with television shows like La Rosa de Guadalupe being watched at home. I wanted to create a more modern take on the image of Guadalupe. She always had a majestic look and I tried to capture that with plenty of gold to catch your eye.
Lupita, La Morenita (2024)
16 x 20, Digital Art, Collage
My tía Guadalupe named two of her children Guadalupe (one was female and one male). I watched my two Guadalupe primos grow up through stages of life proudly wearing that name, and sometimes I wondered what Our Lady of Guadalupe would have been like in her youth. Was she always so reverent and revered?
For this design, I decided to imagine her in her early twenties, a hip, coqueta who calls herself Lupita, La Morenita. This beloved and popular chica is surrounded by an aura, a light that she does not see, yet its brightness makes her stand out above others in her circle.
The roses of her future are reflected in her sunglasses, highlighting the simple flower that she is in her youth, providing a hint of the everlasting love she will carry for us, and we for her.
The angel is not at her feet, but on her lapel close to her heart, where she protects Lupita and keeps her pure. The angel also carries the half moon (lighting the way), a hint of the powerful woman Lupita La Morenita is destined to become.
For this design, I decided to imagine her in her early twenties, a hip, coqueta who calls herself Lupita, La Morenita. This beloved and popular chica is surrounded by an aura, a light that she does not see, yet its brightness makes her stand out above others in her circle.
The roses of her future are reflected in her sunglasses, highlighting the simple flower that she is in her youth, providing a hint of the everlasting love she will carry for us, and we for her.
The angel is not at her feet, but on her lapel close to her heart, where she protects Lupita and keeps her pure. The angel also carries the half moon (lighting the way), a hint of the powerful woman Lupita La Morenita is destined to become.
Amor Eterno
16 x 20, Acrylic on canvas
As I created Guadalupe, I wanted to showcase the colorful handcrafted Mexican artwork as well as the lovely people that I’ve been fortunate to have met devoted to her. I wanted to portray a serene and loving Aztec Woman holding her precious child, wrapped in a Mexican flag amidst a bouquet of roses, surrounded by a beaming ray of sunlight.
She is iconic, and her story alone, creates so many emotions. I tried to connect nature and the profound symbolism of spiritually. I chose the oval canvas to represent an expanded version of the small medal you carry in your pocket as a form of devotion.
The dark moon behind her, and the roses at her feet represent the power of love that defeats tragedy and darkness.
She is iconic, and her story alone, creates so many emotions. I tried to connect nature and the profound symbolism of spiritually. I chose the oval canvas to represent an expanded version of the small medal you carry in your pocket as a form of devotion.
The dark moon behind her, and the roses at her feet represent the power of love that defeats tragedy and darkness.
Peace on Earth
16 x 20, Watercolor on Paper
I was born in Guatemala and raised in Rhode Island. I have most recently been deepening my creative practice through healing from childhood trauma. I have always loved collage and sewing. The last few years have been a wonderful exploration of watercolor.
Our Lady of Guadalupe is a very important person in my life. I have a deep personal connection with her that began in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In 2014 my mother and I made a pilgrimage to see her in Tepeyac, México. It was a profound and moving
experience. When I saw this call for submission I felt called to be a part of this experience.
Our Lady of Guadalupe is a very important person in my life. I have a deep personal connection with her that began in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In 2014 my mother and I made a pilgrimage to see her in Tepeyac, México. It was a profound and moving
experience. When I saw this call for submission I felt called to be a part of this experience.
Nuestra Diosa (2024)
24 x 18, Watercolor
Virgin of Guadalupe symbolizes warmth, nourishment and maternal care; however, she also has strong associations with the modesty and submission of women. Also, this Catholic symbol was created on the temple of the pre-Hispanic goddess Tonantzin, who was understood as Mother Earth in its fullness.
In my work as an illustrator, I consider it important to constantly reflect on the representations we create, especially when these images are part of our daily rituals. Therefore, I have decided to portray La Guadalupana as an indigenous peasant woman, as a tribute from the admiration for her constant dedication to feeding not only her families but also the biodiversity of this planet. This image also shows the woman in an attitude where she recognizes herself as abundant, like the goddess Tonantzin, and where she knows she is strong and deserving of joy and abundance.
In my work as an illustrator, I consider it important to constantly reflect on the representations we create, especially when these images are part of our daily rituals. Therefore, I have decided to portray La Guadalupana as an indigenous peasant woman, as a tribute from the admiration for her constant dedication to feeding not only her families but also the biodiversity of this planet. This image also shows the woman in an attitude where she recognizes herself as abundant, like the goddess Tonantzin, and where she knows she is strong and deserving of joy and abundance.
Guadalupe (2023)
16x20, Watercolor Applications
I grew up in a Catholic household. My mother, I’d say was the religious one but left me to my own devices. The images of Guadalupe and others were common, so I never truly even considered them at the time. No more than religious imagery that just did not peak my interest. Today I am more fascinated by the concepts that motivate a large portion of the Latin community and the world. These fantastic stories that steer the morality of the people is a subject I won’t grow tired of.
Our Lady of Divine Providence
11 x 17, Woodblock Print with Screen print and Watercolor Applications
11 x 17, Woodblock Print with Screen print and Watercolor Applications
"Our Lady of Divine Providence" despite the name is actually the blessed Patroness of Puerto Rico. Virgin Mary statutes can be found all over Puerto Rico in homes, yards, shops, etc. Throughout my life I've always been drawn to the figure without truly realizing my own association with my spirituality. I think especially now it echoes our collective need to help others in times of desperation and destruction but more so in times of happiness and celebration.
Defiance | Portraits of Frida
Invited Artists | Portraits of Frida | January - March 2024
Michaela Clift
Breaking the Mold (2023)6 x 7.5
Graphite on Rag Paper
I am an artist living working and creating in Rhode Island. My personal work involves the relationship between women and flowers in art, exploring the concept of being a woman. I was inspired to submit this piece of Frida titled “Breaking the Mold” because she did just that. Her work is proof that women have been defying stereotypes for decades and the symbolism in her work not only speaks to that rebellion but her proof of her strength and perseverance from tragedy as she painted mostly all her works while bedridden.
Kyle Dumkuski
Frida Kahlo (2023)11 x 14
Matte Graphite and Water-soluble Crayon
I’m a 24-year-old Rhode Island based artist. I’m a mixed media artist with a graphic and surrealistic approach. Prior to this, I didn’t know much about Frida Kahlo. I read up on and learned more about Frida and her remarkable story while creating this piece and it heavily influenced the outcome.
Tamara Díaz
The Recovery (2017)24 x 36
Acrylic Paint on Canvas
I am a local Latinx artist and when not painting, I am a social worker. About 15 years ago, I went. to Casa Azul to see Frida's house/museum. It was very inspirational, and she has greatly impacted me as an artist. I especially love her journals, her courage to authentically share her pain, and her open minded and rebellious spirit.
Frida reminds me of how every day is precious. When she was 18, she was on a bus and in one second, an accident changed her whole life. This is a constant reminder and discussion (as a social worker) about the importance of being so grateful and appreciative of what we have, especially when we and our loved ones are healthy or together.
The fact that Frida had to be in bed to recover from her accident is parallel to how I felt when I had a surgery a few years back. I had art exhibit lined up and I was not sure I would recover in time for the show. I joked with an artist friend that they should bring me into the gallery in my bed like Frida. He said, "LET'S DO IT!" So he created a whole bed in the gallery and I reenacted my hospital room. I put all the paintings I had painted about the surgery and had many symbolic items in this part installation-part performance piece. My face was pained as Frida, and I was in the bed (at the opening) while guests visited me one at a time. This event was an amazing spectacle inspired by my connection to Frida.
Frida reminds me of how every day is precious. When she was 18, she was on a bus and in one second, an accident changed her whole life. This is a constant reminder and discussion (as a social worker) about the importance of being so grateful and appreciative of what we have, especially when we and our loved ones are healthy or together.
The fact that Frida had to be in bed to recover from her accident is parallel to how I felt when I had a surgery a few years back. I had art exhibit lined up and I was not sure I would recover in time for the show. I joked with an artist friend that they should bring me into the gallery in my bed like Frida. He said, "LET'S DO IT!" So he created a whole bed in the gallery and I reenacted my hospital room. I put all the paintings I had painted about the surgery and had many symbolic items in this part installation-part performance piece. My face was pained as Frida, and I was in the bed (at the opening) while guests visited me one at a time. This event was an amazing spectacle inspired by my connection to Frida.
René Gómez
La Mirada (2023)18 x 24
Acrylic on canvas
La Mirada is how I choose to portray Frida Kahlo, knowing that many women admire her for her unapologetic self-expression, portrayal of female strength, and how she challenged societal norms. Her art often delves into personal experiences of pain and identity, resonating with many who appreciate authenticity and empowerment. Additionally, Kahlo's ability to navigate and transcend adversity in her life is inspiring to many women.
I personally am just a big fan of her unique facial features like her eyes and eyebrows.
I personally am just a big fan of her unique facial features like her eyes and eyebrows.
Marta V. Martínez
Oh, the pain | Dolores (2023)11 x 17
Mixed media, collage
At the age of 18, a near-fatal bus accident stopped Frida Kahlo’s ambition of becoming a doctor. Her spine was torn apart, she suffered a broken collarbone, ribs, and pelvis and she was permanently disabled.
After the accident, Frida was confined to a full body cast for three months. During her time in the cast, she was unable to move her legs or arms. She was also in a great deal of pain. However, she used this time of recovery as an opportunity to paint.
Frida was forced to wear plaster corsets for most of her life and took to painting intricate murals across them, turning herself into a canvas.
I created this collage using an image of one of Frida's corsets that shows her spinal chord as she imagined it looked after the accident. I chose this particular image and added the colorful flowers because I believe we should not identify Kahlo by her pain, but rather celebrate the ways she used her afflictions to understand life and to create beautiful art. The butterfly symbolizes her intentional transformation into an artist during her time of pain (Dolores).
After the accident, Frida was confined to a full body cast for three months. During her time in the cast, she was unable to move her legs or arms. She was also in a great deal of pain. However, she used this time of recovery as an opportunity to paint.
Frida was forced to wear plaster corsets for most of her life and took to painting intricate murals across them, turning herself into a canvas.
I created this collage using an image of one of Frida's corsets that shows her spinal chord as she imagined it looked after the accident. I chose this particular image and added the colorful flowers because I believe we should not identify Kahlo by her pain, but rather celebrate the ways she used her afflictions to understand life and to create beautiful art. The butterfly symbolizes her intentional transformation into an artist during her time of pain (Dolores).
Jessie Jewels
Luscious Frida16 x 20
mixed media: collage, acrylic painting, etching, resin, found objects and antique frame restoration
I am a lifelong resident of the Ocean State, where I work out of my home studio in Warwick, Rhode Island. I studied art and education at Rhode Island College. After college I started my own small business selling artwork and teaching workshops. When I am not in my studio I enjoy working for the circus as a fire dancer, performing as a professional mermaid (Miss Mermaid Rhode Island 21’, 22’ &23’), modeling and photography. “Life is Your Canvas” is truly my motto for living.
For the artwork I created I used a multitude of mediums and techniques including collage, acrylic painting, etching, resin, found objects and antique frame restoration. This process was inspired by years of working and experimenting with epoxy resin. I also created various commissions for clients preserving their own collectables into artwork.
When I think of Frida’s life and work, resilience is the first thing that comes to mind. Against the odds she expressed herself through art with wholehearted authenticity. I’m sure she was told that she was “too much” for some people, but she didn’t care she just kept on creating. As a woman and an artist, she inspires me to do the same.
For the artwork I created I used a multitude of mediums and techniques including collage, acrylic painting, etching, resin, found objects and antique frame restoration. This process was inspired by years of working and experimenting with epoxy resin. I also created various commissions for clients preserving their own collectables into artwork.
When I think of Frida’s life and work, resilience is the first thing that comes to mind. Against the odds she expressed herself through art with wholehearted authenticity. I’m sure she was told that she was “too much” for some people, but she didn’t care she just kept on creating. As a woman and an artist, she inspires me to do the same.
María Payano
Retazo de Madera (started 2020, finished 11/29/23)6 x 8
Wood, color pencils
Being a Latin woman at very young age I found relatability to Frida, her art, her story. I struggled being a girl, and felt at times, as if was curse to a woman. Frida’s art and story reminded me that there is power and beauty in mist of caos and pain. What matters is what you make if this life. You have a choice and a voice. I use my art as my voice unapologetically. I want my art to help others feel something and help keep Fridas legacy alive through me. @marmelaart
Grechel Rosado
FRIDA (2021)8 x 11
linocut relief print
Grechel Rosado is a Puerto Rican printmaker, illustrator, and educator currently navigating the Creative Capital of Providence, Rhode Island. Grechel feels immense joy to have been born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico despite moving to the US at an early age. Her whole life has been at the crossroads of living simultaneously between her Hispanic heritage and American upbringing which has echo loudly into her body of work.
Grechel primarily utilizes printmaking as a means of communication; storytelling fragments of her life and lived experiences through the artform.
By combining elements of femininity, cultura latina, and social justice themes together, Grechel is leaving her voice in a world that has long withheld historical representation of both Women and Latina artists.
She is the true definition of a powerhouse
Frida Kahlo is a true powerhouse in her own right. She was able to establish herself as one of the most recognizable artists internationally despite having to navigate a white, male centric art world. Frida has been a muse of mine for decades now. She embodies everything I celebrate about my identity and artwork.
Grechel primarily utilizes printmaking as a means of communication; storytelling fragments of her life and lived experiences through the artform.
By combining elements of femininity, cultura latina, and social justice themes together, Grechel is leaving her voice in a world that has long withheld historical representation of both Women and Latina artists.
She is the true definition of a powerhouse
Frida Kahlo is a true powerhouse in her own right. She was able to establish herself as one of the most recognizable artists internationally despite having to navigate a white, male centric art world. Frida has been a muse of mine for decades now. She embodies everything I celebrate about my identity and artwork.
Natalia Restrepo
The Colors of Frida (2020)24 x 36
Acrylic
I was born in Medellin, Colombia and migrated to the US with my family when I was 8. I have always loved the arts and in fact planned on pursuing an art degree after high school, but circumstances took me in a different direction. I joined the Navy after high school and left my home state of Rhode Island. The job opportunities that the military provided led me to pursue a graduate degree in cybersecurity, however I never stopped painting.
Frida Kahlo inspires me because her art reflects her physical and emotional pain while also conveying her resilience and strength and it is the true reflection of my own life experiences.
Frida Kahlo inspires me because her art reflects her physical and emotional pain while also conveying her resilience and strength and it is the true reflection of my own life experiences.
Niko Tolentino
Frida’s Dreams (2023)16 x 20
Acrylic paint, spray paint on canvas
I am a multi-disciplinary visual artist from Rhode Island. The styles I use vary depending on whether a project is a mural, canvas painting or digital rendering. I’ve always tried to crystallize a moment or a feeling in color and shape.
Frida is such an interesting person. How could I avoid the chance to celebrate her memory?
Frida is such an interesting person. How could I avoid the chance to celebrate her memory?
Pablo Youngs
Object / Subject (2023)12 X 16
Spray paint & stencil on canvas
I have been working with spray paint and stencils on canvas for a few years; I believe it’s the perfect marriage of studio painting and graphic design.
I admire Frida’s position as a cultural symbol of struggle and the overcoming of extreme life challenges. Her literal use of symbols has become the standard in “magical realism,” and for that she deserves all the credit in the world.
I admire Frida’s position as a cultural symbol of struggle and the overcoming of extreme life challenges. Her literal use of symbols has become the standard in “magical realism,” and for that she deserves all the credit in the world.
Carmen Vázquez
Frida Kahlo18 x 24
Acrylic and mixed media
My name is Carmen Vazquez, better known as "Carmencita." I am an Afro-Latina self-taught Acrylic Painter from Providence, RI. My creative practice is deep rooted in expressing my healing journey, identity and inspirations. In other words, I use my art as a personal diary.
In the past, I participated in RISD's Project Open Door (POD) program, painted a mural in Zacapa, Guatemala of the national bird, the Quetzal and painted Las Tres Muñecas Sin Rostro located on Broad Street. My artistic style varies in symbolism and abstract. Most of my artwork is vibrant. However, I'm very open to experimenting with different artistic styles.
Frida Kahlo's value of vulnerability helped me to express that through my art work. Her creative practice inspires me to not be afraid of authenticity, curiosity and embracing who I am. She reminds me that rebellion is beautiful when it is molded into art. Frida Kahlo will forever be an Artist I admire wholeheartedly.
In the past, I participated in RISD's Project Open Door (POD) program, painted a mural in Zacapa, Guatemala of the national bird, the Quetzal and painted Las Tres Muñecas Sin Rostro located on Broad Street. My artistic style varies in symbolism and abstract. Most of my artwork is vibrant. However, I'm very open to experimenting with different artistic styles.
Frida Kahlo's value of vulnerability helped me to express that through my art work. Her creative practice inspires me to not be afraid of authenticity, curiosity and embracing who I am. She reminds me that rebellion is beautiful when it is molded into art. Frida Kahlo will forever be an Artist I admire wholeheartedly.
La Galería del Pueblo | The Village Gallery
La Galería is managed by Rhode Island Latino Arts and features art created by local Latino artists.Currently we will feature art and handmade items made by local artists such as note cards, prints, biliingual books, t-shirts. In the future, we will carry jewelry, fashion items, sculpture and more.
We only accept credit cards.
We provide regular programming such as artist talks, demonstrations or workshop activities.
La Galería del Pueblo is Rhode Island's only Latino based non-profit cooperative art and cultural gallery, located in the quaint and vibrant shopping district of Pawtuxet Village.
WINTER HOURS:
Monday-Wednesday: Closed
Thursdays 3-5PM & Fridays 3-6PM
Saturdays 11AM-4PM • Sundays by appointment
Contact: Roxana Mercado
roxana@rilatinoarts.org
(401) 486-9095
Books, t-shirts and papél picado items
incur a .7% RI Tax
