As soon as I saw "El grito negro", I was stricken. This mixed media collage piece created the perfect segue into your "Urban Martyrs and Latter Day Santos" exhibit as it, as I found out, is reminiscent of your earlier work yet very similar to the more recent pieces. After seeing that piece, I was excited to further explore your other work displayed at El Museo del Barrio. Your approach to abstract art is inspired. Suffice to say, I quickly became a fan of yours after that introduction.
After seeing that initial piece, I fell in love with piece after piece. However, one in particular really interested me because of its historical significance. In the amazing Young Lords exhibit also at El Museo, I saw a clip of Pedro Pietri performing his epic, profound literary work: "Puerto Rico Obituary." I've always known of Pietri as a major NYC icon and one if the founding writers of the Nuyorican movement but I, shamefully, never fully looked into his work. The fact that you chose Pietri as a subject proves he had a great impact on you, that he served as an inspiration and that you view him highly. When were you first affected and touched by his words? Was this an homage to the man or created in response to a specific work of his? Do you view him as a martyr, a saint or both?
The title "El Reverendo Pedro Pietri" elevates him to a man that spreads the "gospel" of his truths. You show how much he was and is respected. Yet, the piece also seems to shine light on his comedic and out going temperament/disposition. Referencing his suitcase of poems upon which he wrote "Coffins for Rent" was clever. In doing so you brought attention to his deep yet humorous ways. He was both a man of powerful reverence and also a man with a sense of humor. You portrayed that quite well. From this work, I get a glimpse into your overall perspective of such an iconic, influential man.
The acrollage technique you created, named and utilized is very innovative. Layering glazes of luminous colors with different types of paper gives varying experiences depending on the angle from which you view your work. Why did you decide to become a mixed media, collage artist? Was it the process of re-inagining and re-creating that appealed to you? If you didn't choose collage or "acrollage", what other techniques or mediums would you use? The absence of negative space provides innumerable things to perceive. The texture produced with the pattern of paper applique gives the art work striking elegance. What you have succeeded in creating with the techniques, mediums and materials you've chosen is beautiful and impressive. I definitely look forward to seeing more of your unique artwork in the future.
Thank you for sharing your talent, vision and adoration of the late great Pedro Pietri.
With Admiration,
Khalilah Coombs
what a beautiful letter- and excellent question on the connection to the Presente! exhibit as a an inspiration for this work. Aslo, excellent point on the lack of negative spaces in her work- very observant of you!
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