In Portals, Rodriguez is exploring the strength of the Earth’s natural territory as conceived as an energetic and living mantle that is constantly moving and evolving. It is the raw energy of our earth that he is interested in conveying through his art. Portal 57, 2022, pictured above, is one of six large paintings in the exhibition with dimensions ranging from a small 43 x 35 inches to 75 x 59 inches. The Portal paintings employ natural elements of raw linen canvas with the sheen of black lava paint, or gold and copper leaf, providing the paintings with a reflective and light-emitting quality. Mareo also creates sculptures entitled Mantles that resemble ripples of white or black metal on the wall. Unique to this exhibition is a LED light crack that resembles a lightning bolt suspended from the ceiling of the Gallery. Finally, his other relief-style sculptures, made of layers of plexiglass, convey topographical renderings of the natural world. The use of the earth’s materials in the Portal paintings (gold, copper and linen) mimic the organic compositions of his Mantles and Relief scultpures, all together remininscent of “chiaroscuro” presented in a sophisticated style of minimalism inherent in Rodriquez’s overall aesthetic. The strong contrasts of white and black with his glowing cracks, fissures and undulating curves resembleing those discovered in rivers, mountains, lava forms and deserts. They invite the viewer to the unexplored space and to reflect and imagine possible worlds beyond. In many ways, Rodriguez’ artwork is a true tribute to nature and the questions that arise from it.

BIOGRAPHY Growing up in Medellin City, Colombia, Mareo Rodriguez was surrounded by majestic mountainscapes which later inspired him to artisitically explore the many minerals and formations that make up the Earth. Having received his Bachelor of Architecture in Colombia, he then continued on to complete two Master degrees, one in Design (Spain, 2007) and another in Fine Arts (Argentina, 2013). Mareo has exhibited internationally in Spain, Italy, France, Canada, Mexico, Argentina, Emirates, England, Turkey and China and his work lives in private collections globally.