Ismael Rodriguez

Ismael Rodriguez “Borinquen to Nuyorica: A Puerto Rican Love Letter”

Genre: Art Exhibit

Ismael Rodriguez is an artist, born in Puerto Rico and raised in the Bronx, New York. He attended the famed Fiorello Laguardia High School of Music and the Arts (Music&Art) and attended Daemen College and Columbia University. He holds a BFA and BA (English), is a published writer, aspiring filmmaker, and an accomplished artist. Ismael first debuted his art at the legendary Agueybana bookstore back in 1997 and has had several exhibitions throughout New York City since. Ismael is currently writing a novel and a series of short stories. He is also in pre-production of an independent film that he’s written and is starring in (due for release in late 2014). In addition, he is an avid triathlete and is currently a certified triathlon coach with the TriLatino triathlon team in New York City.

“Borinquen to Nuyorica: A Puerto Rican Love Letter”

“We drink from wells we did not dig; we are warmed by the fires we did not kindle.”
This biblical quote is what comes to mind when I reflect on my art. My work is a ‘sketchbook’ of images of my people, culture, and heritage. When I think about our Puerto Rican people I think about the jibarito, the Taino, musicians, and the flag among other things. The randomness of my imagery speaks to the dream like trance that I am in when I’m in my creative ‘zone’. With the sounds of Rafael Hernandez and the Fania All Stars blaring in the background, this series of paintings and drawings are what result. I have also renamed my own New York in those ‘dreams’, hence the name: NUYORICA. My art speaks to a place I have only visited in my dreams and thoughts but are no less real. I love being Puerto Rican. I have a love affair with where I am from. This is my love letter.

Featuring the music of Dj Jungle Jane

Gallery Open

Ismael Rodriguez exhibit opens at on December 10th, 2013 at 7:00pm

Camaradas El Barrio
2241 First Avenue
New York, NY 10029
+1212-348-2703