MULTICULTURAL CENTER
Native Land (Sept 12 - Oct 12, 2001)
Opening Reception  ||  Sept 12, 2001 (6 – 8pm)
60 Broad Street, Providence, RI 02903
(401) 598-4776  ||  www1.jwu.edu

 

PROVIDENCE, RI (September 10, 2001): Multicultural Center at The Johnson & Walls University is exited to announce that it will be hosting an opening reception for Native Land / Tierra Natal, featuring paintings by Nilton Cardenas, on Wednesday, September 12, 2001, from 6-8pm. The artist will be present at the reception.

In his current collection, Nilton maintains a passion for telling the story of his country’s culture through his art. The use of color in his large murals reflects his experience and perspective of life in his native Peru where color, music and traditions are the standards of beauty.

Nilton Cardenas was born and raised in Lima, Peru. At the age of 20, he and his family immigrated to Florida, later settling in Providence, Rhode Island. Nilton studied journalism at the University of San Martin de Porres and Painting at the Institute Superior Jose Sabogal in Lima, Peru. He has exhibited his artwork both individually and collectively within the United States and abroad.

Nilton actively promotes Latino art and culture in the local community and is a former Board Member of Sol Gallery. Nilton has been developing his talent with the youth of Providence as an art teacher in summer camps, and after school programs. For this work, he has received recognition awards from City and State officials for his support and impact of art on children.

Nilton’s ability to utilize brilliant colors allows his artwork to transform the energy of the space in which it is confined. In his work one finds traces of surrealism, realism, abstract and contemporary styles.

“My nation rich in culture, tradition and legend. In a poetic way; my paintings reflect the nostalgic coloration of my constant inner search for an origin associated with the cultural roots of my native land.
What motivates my creative sensitivity is my endless journey back to the center of my cultural self, the liberating encounter with that self.”

By Nilton Cárdenas