Discover Puerto Rico Donates Four Works by Artist Devón Rodríguez to the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico
Discover Puerto Rico donated four paintings by renowned artist Devón Rodríguez to the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico (MAPR), where they will remain on public display until October 31.
Three of the artwork pieces were created in 2024, during the artist's first trip to Puerto Rico, as part of tourism promotions called "Boricua Portraits." These pieces are anchored in Puerto Rico's Taino, African, and European heritage, and are part of a promotional effort called Boricua Portraits. Rodríguez, of Puerto Rican heritage, created portraits of painter Antonio Martorell, chef Carlos Portela, and dancer and singer Margarita "Tata" Cepeda.
The fourth portrait captures the image of muralist and tattoo artist Juan Salgado. It will also be part of the donation and exhibition. The artwork was a part of a collaboration between Salgado and Rodríguez, commissioned by Discover Puerto Rico for Art Basel Miami Beach, the world's leading contemporary art event. There, Salgado created a mural inspired by the "Boricua Portraits" activation, and Rodríguez created a portrait of Salgado.
"We want to share these creations with all art enthusiasts and donate them to the Museum for inclusion in their extensive collection. Devon is one of the most important young artists in the world, and the collaborations he has made with our organization constitute a unique series that highlights our cultural heritage and how art can contribute to the economic development of Puerto Rico," said Jorge L. Pérez, CEO of Discover Puerto Rico.
This will be the first time that Devon Rodríguez's works have been exhibited in a Puerto Rican Museum. Rodríguez is one of the most recognized young artists on social media with more than 4 million followers. He rose to fame by posting videos in which he painted strangers on the New York subway. His portraits are distinguished by their hyperrealism, and his talent has led him to collaborate with prominent political figures, as well as those in the entertainment world.
''Taking my work to a museum is an immense honor, and for that to be in Puerto Rico, the land of my roots, makes it even more special. These portraits are my way of paying tribute to the mix of cultures that defines us and to the connection of my art with the island I always carry in my heart,” said Devon Rodríguez.
