January 12- September 1, 2017

There & Then

Opening Reception: January 12, 2016 at 7pm

Artist: Jose Luis Garcia and German Ruiz

Description:

There & Then showcases the dual photographic perspectives of Jose L. Garcia and German Ruiz. This exhibit analyzes the connection between place and memory – from portraits and nocturnal landscapes to painted residential structures, Garcia and Ruiz re-examine their environments and their past.

German Ruiz’ Artist Statement:

My work presents a conversation between presence and absence. The portraits of my family document both ritual and habit. Like memories they reveal some lingering essence of being. The nocturnal landscapes provide setting; often isolated, informing us of where they live. Night itself carrying implications of isolation places us in a dreamlike state we seem to have stumbled upon. Taken from two separate approaches they share tensions stemming from our unease and what we hold most dear.

German Ruiz Bio:

Born in Matagalpa, Nicaragua German Ruiz is a South Florida photographer. His work ranges from nocturnal landscapes, to portraits, and documentary projects. Ruiz is currently a Florida International University MFA candidate and has exhibited both locally and internationally.

Jose Luis Garcia’s Artist Statement:

“Every time I go through something scary, traumatic, I survive by taking pictures.” – Nan Goldin

This statement from Nan Goldin about the cathartic aspect of making photographs has influenced my artistic practice. I, too, create photographs that reflect on the passage of time. My work also deals with my identity and personal narratives; however, I have re-contextualized images as poetic investigations of memory and loss.

Jose Luis Garcia Bio:

Jose Luis Garcia is a Photo-Based Artist, who lives and works in Miami, FL. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art from New World School of the Arts / University of Florida. He is currently a 2nd-year candidate for the Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art from Florida International University.