In this solo exhibition, Renzo Ortega presents new oil paintings on canvas, a series of acrylic paintings on reclaimed jute coffee sacks, and, for the first time in North Carolina, a couple of past works from the early 2000's.

All these artworks together form a large site-specific installation that interacts with the exhibition space, creating a unified whole. A visual journey that shows fighting spirits in the current socio-political context, which, for Renzo Ortega, is crucial to express through his artwork. As well as the hard but true realities of human existence, such as death, war, and personal and communal struggle. But at the same time, use painting as a space to channel emotions and find shelter during rough times, not only in the country but worldwide.

In FISH TANK, the gallery is a metaphorical ecosystem, a container, and, of course, a refuge that welcomes people to engage with paintings made with expressionistic gesture and political attitude. FISH TANK is a space to move freely, while through the eyes we feed ourselves with powerful narratives, and reflect on them.

On a recent painting pilgrimage to Rome, Renzo Ortega focused on visiting Churches to experience how paintings coexist in sacred spaces, feel the energy generated by the artworks in the temples, and how that energy influences us; furthermore, how, through depicted suffering, we find paths of light and liberation. With FISH TANK, in the way paintings are displayed, Renzo Ortega aims to achieve the same through a formal artistic strategy and as a representation of his cultural background.

FISH TANK is a must-see exhibition, open to the public, and will be on view from July 8th to August 8th at the Durham Art Guild Gallery at Golden Belt.

Public Events:

• Third Friday Durham Art Walk:  

  Friday, July 17th. From 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

  Sound Performance by Renzo Ortega

• Poetry Reading in English and Spanish:

  Friday, July 31st, 6:30 pm.

  With Guest Poets Jameela F. Dallis and Pablo Rojas.

Curated by Renzo Ortega, Mike G

Presented by the Durham Art Guild