“Layers” by Mel Vera Cruz

 

The Paolo Mejia Art Gallery and Design Studio cordially invites everyone to attend Mel Vera Cruz's art show curated by Paolo Mejia at Alameda Free Library this August.

The paintings shown in this exhibit are manifestations of different layers of Mel Vera Cruz‘s experiences. Some of these paintings were painted 12 years ago and left lying in his studio, while over time is superimposed, overlayed and painted on two or more times. Each of these tiers or layers represent his growth and evolution – the ‘layers’ of his past and present.

Mel Vera Cruz immigrated from the Philippines when he was 31, where he left his profession for 9 years in an advertising agency as an illustrator and as an art director. His experiences from childhood to adulthood and from Philippines to the United States were filled with a lot of challenges, which fueled his need to look for that refuge. Art and art making became Mel’s refuge.The materials Mel utilizes reflect his independence. They are mostly bought from hardware stores as a form of protest and to challenge the pejorative. Mel uses card-boards, empty containers, found objects and whatever is available. He believes in self-sufficiency in experimenting and discovering avenues, and does not depend on ‘institutions’ to validate his art making. His independence is what makes his work brilliant.

Mel Vera Cruz currently lives in the East Bay and work as a professional digital printer and tattoo artist. He has been showing his artwork in Manila, Philippines and around California.

art SHOW:  JULY 28 – AUGUST 30

artist RECEPTION:  JULY 30 (Wednesday), 6:30 – 9pm

location:

Alameda Free Library
1550 Oak Street (across from the Alameda police station)
Alameda, Ca 94501

www.paolomejia.com