‘Forgotten Memories’ Exhibit Coming to TAMIU Feb. 14

Laredo artist Miki Rodríguez invites local and area residents to find their own personal symbols as they engage with her paintings at her exhibit, “Forgotten Memories,” at Texas A&M International University. The exhibit kicks off with a reception Thursday, Feb. 14 from 5 – 8 p.m. in the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Gallery.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Gallery hours are 12 – 5 p.m., Monday – Thursday and by appointment.

“Forgotten Memories” will be on display through Thursday, March 27. Twenty percent of all sales of artwork will go to benefit the TAMIU Art Gallery program.

 “This body of work has developed into marks that experiment with social relationships, ancient cultures and personal symbols that reflect my life and surroundings. They are directly connected to my memories and beliefs. And in this way are a part of my identity,” Rodríguez explains in her artist’s statement.

Her work reflects her experiences, culture and heritage as a Latina and it depicts a close relationship with family and the memories they share.

“The environment that is reflected in my work is directly related to my Mexican American heritage and culture and most importantly, my connection to my home, Laredo, Texas. The personal symbols have developed as a code. They are my secrets and whispers that depict my past and present life and relationships, particularly with family. My colors are equally symbolic and expressive by nature and generally are internal choices. However, they are appropriated from my environment,” she adds.

Rodríguez uses oil paint on canvas and paper. Her deep and intense colors are an expression of home. Her marks vary from strong black lines to a softer, quieter whisper. Her imagery, although abstracted, are based on objects that have surrounded her in the past.

 “So, on these canvases, the oil pain becomes a mark and then an image. And attached to each object are its belongings. A past experience labels an object in its path and from this time on, the object has significance for me. It becomes symbolic of the moment. It carries a story and it becomes a vessel that embodies a small piece of my life,” Rodríguez explains.

The native Laredoan started her education in drawing and painting at the University of Houston where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Science in Art at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. She also received a fellowship to attend Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, Md.

She currently teaches at St. Augustine High School, but her career spans more than 25 years of teaching at both Laredo school districts.

For more information, please contact Alma Haertlein, assistant professor of art, at almah@tamiu.edu or 326.3041.

University office hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.

Visit tamiu.edu/events for a listing of TAMIU arts events, lectures and other campus happenings, available by clicking on “Events.”

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu