R. Lopez Rios
Traditionally violence has been the language many men see or become familiar with within these walls. At what point does the DOC actually begin to invest real time and resources to help these men discover their talents, from which society as a whole and the individuals can benefit?
Incarcerated men have no way to reconnect, nor build any type of support system conducive to change because of restrictions and the negative stigma attached to prison. Projects as such give the community a chance to see a different side and gives the men a sense of accomplishment, an opportunity to be recognized, and reconnect with the self and others, an experience that can be life changing, due to the fact that most of these men have never had such experiences. Do you see this different approach that involves the community inside and out, with so much potential, as something that can be applied to current or new programs?
This approach is like building bridges to a path of healing both the individual and community. It starts the process of growth, gives men a purpose and direction in life. How can we redirect the focus of punishment, to a positive reinforcement type of approach that focuses on making better people by capitalizing on their interests/talents in arts and crafts?
Why do you use the medium you use?
I use whatever medium I'm drawn to at the time. I believe creativity is the most important thing. Therefore the type of medium does not matter.
What role does art play in your life?
Art is my passion, the part of me that can only be expressed by projecting it through colors and shapes, taking a physical form for the world to see. A role in my life that links me to my past, as I create in the moment for the future to leave remnants of myself long after I am gone.
What inspires you to create?
I'm inspired by the flames of creativity that are fueled by the hopes, dreams, compassion, and humanity that I have clinched on to. My desire to inspire, inspires me as well.
Transformation Statement
Nature, time and human beings are constantly transforming. Society as a whole transforms the norms that change throughout our lives. To me the most important transformation takes place when someone becomes autonomous and true to themselves beyond any type of outside influence, allowing them to reach their full potential. Funny thing is that the stage in life before reaching such transformation, one must allow the embracement of an entire community to understand one's self.
See other art pieces from R. Lopez Rios from the 2020 Exhibition: NUMBERS.
Only You (for sale $250.00) Inspired by the journey we all must walk. Life hands us unexpected turns to learn from, yet most of us find ourselves trapped and tangled. We must learn from our struggles how to free ourselves. Only you can set yourself free to fulfill your destiny of infinite possibilities.
Hypnotic Appeal (for sale $200.00) Status, approval, and validation are social restraints disguised as moral standards. They shape our lives and keep us hostage to our social groups. However, it is novel autonomy that gives us the ability to see what is beyond our understanding. This sparks the connection that we have to every living thing on earth.
Coatlicue ($300) Aztec goddess. Mother of the gods who gave birth to the moon and stars.
Embrace ($300) Regardless of the path that an individual takes in life, the key to growth,empowerment, hope, and transformation lies in the community that embraces a person. The community that takes a person in, allows them to truly discover their passion and remove the mask that has hindered their progress in life. It is a defining moment, one of vulnerability when the true nature of the soul is exposed to the world. It is a moment that will allow the investment and sacrifice of others to take form and shine like gold.
Barriers ($250) The world is full of physical borders claiming land. Our minds are full of barriers claiming superiority over others; our perspective has been distorted by our experiences. Yet amongst all our struggles, battles, and suffering, the love of a mother can frame a reality that can unite and transform humanity, because her love knows no boundaries.