A Love Letter To You, Mi Gente
A Love Letter To You, Mi Gente is a collection of digital illustrations and 3D sculptural work celebrating the people and experiences that make a place home. These works demonstrate the love, vibrancy, and nostalgia of reflecting on growing up—a chance to rejoice in playful memories and deep rooted community.
Allston-based Katiana Rodriguez is a queer, Afro-Latinx artist born and raised in New York City. In this debut exhibit, Rodriguez invites visitors to immerse themselves in color and whimsy, and remember the importance of their roots and history.
On view at the Crossings Gallery September 21 – November 2, 2023
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Artist Statement
As a young Puerto Rican girl in the Bronx, my life was rarely lacking in color, artistry, or joy. The visuals I create are meant to express the warmth and adoration I feel whenever I think of home. To me, home will always be the people. The never ending music. The deep rooted sense of community.
I create with my spirituality, family and younger self front of mind. Within each artwork, I attempt to capture the nuances of growing up as queer, plus sized, and one of the more monolingual members of my family. I strive to capture the beauty and liveliness of my people and my surrounding environment. By exploring diversity, body positivity, and urban culture—mainly through portraiture—I hope to inspire a sense of familiarity and connection between myself and my viewers.
Katiana Rodriguez
Katiana Rodriguez is a queer, Afro-Latinx artist born and raised in New York City. She currently has a BFA from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design in Illustration. Her artistic influence can be seen throughout the city of Boston. Most notably, she has held a year-long curatorial residency at the Brookline Arts Center and has spent innumerable weekends vending at local art and craft markets. Additionally, Katiana was a member of The Fenway's inaugural cohort, where she oversaw the planning of Violet Neighborhood, an art event centered around queer BIPOC creators. She has also facilitated multiple workshops centered around art, identity, and portraiture. As an artist of color, Katiana is focused on bringing diversity and awareness to visual art spaces through mural work, equity and inclusion initiatives, gallery curation, and event planning.
