While abstract and pop art have a strong history in New York, an often overlooked yet equally important genre is surrealism. Heralding this flame for many years now, international gallery Saphira & Ventura has kindled this tradition of the surreal with past exhibitions, both domestically and overseas. Elevating this to new heights with Chronicles of the Soul, the debut solo exhibition of surrealist artist, Tony Rodríguez, whose remarkable career in Cuba and Miami has earned hima reputable position in both places. The exhibition, featuring a collection curated by Alcinda Saphira, will include the artist’s newer pieces. Works will also be available on the gallery’s Artsy page.

Known as the “Painter of Reflections”, Miami-based painter and illustrator, Tony Rodríguez has won several awards for his skill and technique in art. His figurative works, completed in an academic yet contemporary style, features a wide variety of surrealistic elements. In these works, we see motifs of the artist’s inspiration from the ancient philosophies, together with poems, and modern universal elements. The viewer is struck by his enormous towers, panoramic landscape, and impressive machinery, which cite liberty and unites history and human experience.

“In the process of this exploration, I have discovered that persistence and dedication are the basic elements of art.” says Rodríguez, who was born and raised in Santiago de Cuba and for many years has worked as an art professor. Although his base is in Miami, his experience has been extensive, with nations such as Germany, France, Denmark, and Italy exhibiting his works in the past fifteen years. Currently his works are part of both public and private collections, such as, the Luciano Benetton, the Hispanic Cultural Center in Miami, among others. 

Curated by Alcinda Saphira
Production: Diego Ponce / Albert Valente / Liz Carvalho 
Design: Camila Crivelenti