In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the department of Arts and Culture put together an exhibit that opened on campus showcasing the rich cultural tapestry, history and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities.
The exhibit, hung in Green Hall, The President’s House and The Robert J. Higgins Welcome Center includes work in a variety of media by 20 artists originally from the Caribbean, Central and South America.
The collection includes paintings, sculptures, photography and mixed media pieces. All of the artwork showcases themes of identity, community and cultural heritage.
Through these artworks, visitors are invited to engage with the stories and historical contexts that shape the Hispanic experience.
The exhibit is not only open for Hispanic Heritage month, but is available to be viewed until Dec. 6.
“It’s incredible art in a variety of media,” Arts and Culture program Director Steven Pennell said. “Some of them are folklife and there’s a variety about music and other elements of the culture. I think to miss it is to miss an opportunity to come to a new understanding and appreciation of other people in our world.”
In between classes and moments of free time, several students have been seen soaking up the beauty of the art exhibits.
“I stopped by the welcome center in between my spanish and bio class and noticed the pieces along the walls,” first-year pre-vet major Brianna Cruz said. “I thought all the art was beautiful and the message even more so.”
The exhibit encourages dialogue around the challenges and experiences faced by the Hispanic community, fostering a deeper understanding among viewers of different backgrounds, Pennell added.
“Some of the artwork displays the feelings that the hispanic artists have towards their culture and represents certain aspects that make up their identity.” Pennell said.
URI is consistently trying to showcase different cultures and make the student body of the university feel represented, according to Michelle Fontes, URI’s assistant vice president of Community, Equity and Diversity. This representation is vital in educational spaces, as it contributes to a well-rounded understanding of history and culture for all students. The initiative seeks to inspire future generations of artists and advocates for equity and representation in all fields of the arts.
“It’s nice to see the school celebrate Hispanic Heritage month in an expressive way,” Cruz said, “As someone who identifies as a latina it feels like the month can get lost sometimes so I was very happy to get to see the exhibit.”
By highlighting the artwork of Hispanic artists, URI aims to recognize the different aspects of the culture and take time to celebrate Hispanic Heritage month.
“URI’s art exhibit for Hispanic Heritage Month is meant to serve as an important celebration of cultural diversity and community engagement,” Pennell said.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibit and expand their understanding of Hispanic culture and its vital role in the community until Dec. 6.