Helene

Lenses of Life

Perkinson Center for the Arts & Education, Centre Street, Chester, VA, USA

https://www.perkinsoncenter.org/upcoming-art-show

https://www.facebook.com/events/451679237762304/

Lenses of Life: Unveiling the Urban, Rural, and Suburban Realities
Gallery Opening: Friday, August 16, 2024
6-8pm
Send us your RSVP today!Join us as we celebrate the opening of this exhibit with light food, cash bar, and of course, the ART!Curator's Statement: "Lenses of Life"
Welcome to "Lenses of Life: Unveiling the Urban, Rural, and Suburban Realities," an exhibition that transcends visual boundaries and invites you to explore the diverse tapestry of human existence through the lenses of our featured artists. This collection, curated by Helene Ruiz, founder of The Urban Individualists, brings together the evocative works of Helene Ruiz, Josue Fred, Naomi Cordova, Dorothy Rice, Tahanie Medina, and Orisegun Olomidun.Each piece in this exhibit captures the essence of our varied environments:
Urban Unveiled: Dive into the vibrant energy and cultural kaleidoscope of city life, from everyday moments to profound societal challenges.Rural Reverie: Experience the tranquility and nostalgia of rural landscapes, reflecting the beauty and solitude of the countryside.Suburban Snapshots: Explore the evolving narratives of suburban spaces, revealing both their unique charm and inherent complexities.Lenses of Life goes beyond passive viewing, offering an interactive component where visitors can engage in a collaborative storytelling exercise inspired by the artwork, culminating in a special live poetry session, lead by Monica Hill and also including poems by Dorothy Rice and Helene Ruiz which will further enrich your experience, blending visual and literary art to ignite deep reflection and meaningful conversations.We invite you to immerse yourself in this multifaceted journey and appreciate the profound human connections that define our shared existence.Helene Ruiz
Curator and Founder of The Urban Individualists

Solo Art Exhibit

Gateway Building, East Marshall Street, Richmond, VA, USA

Solo of an eclectic mix of my works within past 2 yrs as a solo in the Gateway Gallery on 1st floor of 1200 E Marshall St RVA 

NYC Through and Through

Village Works, Saint Marks Place, New York, NY, USA

ALL INVITED!ART OPENING AND ART PARTY ON FRIDAY NOV 8TH FROM 6-10PM FEATURING ARTWORKS BY HELENE RUIZwww.artmajeur.com/artgirlIn addition to exhibiting some of her paintings, there will also be some live poetry inspired by NYC
VILLAGE WORKS 12 ST. MARKS PLACE NY, NY 10003 THIS IS A POP UP EXHIBIT SO BE SURE TO COME OUT ON FRIDAY NOVEMBER 8TH 2024! VILLAGE WORKS IS A BOOKSTORE, GALLERY AND FOCUSES ON ORIGINAL ART AND OBJECTS OF ART BY NYC RAISED ARTISTS! IT'S ALL ABOUT REAL NYC CULTURE!https://www.villageworksnyc.com/gallerystore

Celebrating Creativity and Collaboration: "It's Just Exquisite!" and "Resurrecting the Exquisite Corpse"

Visual Art Studio gallery, West Broad Street, Richmond, VA, USA and Rich Public Library

Celebrating Creativity and Collaboration: "It's Just Exquisite!" and "Resurrecting the Exquisite Corpse" Both Exhibitions Set to Open in Richmond on 10-4-2024 – Richmond's artistic community is gearing up for an exciting showcase of creativity and collaboration with the upcoming exhibitions, "It's Just Exquisite! An Exhibition of Collaborative Creations" and "Resurrecting the Exquisite Corpse." The exhibitions will be held at the Richmond Public Library 101 E Franklin St Richmond VA from 6-8pm and Anne's Visual Studio Art Gallery 208 W Broad St. Richmond VA from 6-9pm. The exhibits aim to captivate audiences with their innovative approach to artistic expression. Opening on the first Friday of October, October 4th, 2024, coinciding with the First Friday Artwalk, these exhibitions aim to pay tribute to the historic game of Exquisite Corpse. Developed by ( the Exquisite Corpse technique involves artists collaborating on artwork, with each artist contributing a section without seeing the others' contributions until the piece is completed.) " 'It's Just Exquisite!' and 'Resurrecting the Exquisite Corpse' are not just exhibitions; they are celebrations of creativity, experimentation, and community," says Helene Ruiz, the organizer behind the shows. "We wanted to create an environment where artists could come together, push the boundaries of their artistic practice, and create something truly unique." The exhibitions will feature collaborative works by a diverse group of artists, each bringing their own perspective and style to the table. Visitors can expect to see a variety of mediums. "We're not just creating art; we're creating an experience," says Helene. "Through 'It's Just Exquisite!' and 'Resurrecting the Exquisite Corpse,' we hope to inspire others to embrace collaboration, take risks, and push the boundaries of their own creativity." The exhibitions will open with a reception on Friday, October 4th, 2024, where visitors can view the collaborative works and meet the artists. Both exhibitions will run for a limited time, so be sure to mark your calendars and join us for this one-of-a-kind artistic experience. We welcome any press, interviews, etc .. for venue information and their regular business hours please contact the venues; https://rvalibrary.org/ https://www.facebook.com/RPLMainlibrary/ https://www.facebook.com/VisualArtStudio/ About the Organizer: Helene Ruiz is an artist who moved to RVA in 2011 from NYC and now is based in Richmond, is known for her innovative approach to curating and organizing artistic events. With a passion for collaboration and community engagement, Helene strives to create opportunities for artists to connect, experiment, and showcase their work.

Before Sunrise

Art Zone 42, Leoforos Vasileos Konstantinou, Athens, Greece

I will be in Athens and will be participating with my painting "Rise and Shine" (Rise And Shine!, Painting by Helene | Artmajeur) for this group exhibition in Athens Greece opening reception on July 11th.The exhibit runs thru until July 27th at Artzone 42 Gallery Λεωφόρος Βασιλέως Κωνσταντίνου 42, Athens, Greece

Rise And Shine!, Painting by Helene | Artmajeur

Buy art from Helene (Free Shipping, Secured direct purchase): Painting titled "Rise and Shine!"

Rise and Shine ; artists statement: "A surreal sunrise casts a dreamlike glow over a bustling cityscape. With whimsical elements like a coffee cup atop a building, a few random cards, dominoes, and a banana, this acrylic on canvas captures the blend of chaos and calm that defines the moments before the city awakens. The large clock and everyday street signs, from laundry lines to the streetlight, symbolize the intersection of time, dreams, and daily life at the brink of a new day." Helene Ruiz 2024

Facebook

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Coming soon ...

H Artzone42 - Artzone42 Gallery

H Artzone42 - Artzone42 Gallery

Η αίθουσα τέχνης ART ZONE 42 ιδρύθηκε τον Δεκέμβριο του 2007, ενώ η πρώτη έκθεση εγκαινιάστηκε τον Μάρτιο του 2008.

‘’Before Sunrise;a group art exhibition’’ The works will reflect this mysterious time right before the sunrise as well as the moment the first sun beams reach earth. What happens to thoughts, dreams, nature and psychosynthesis in general during this time? "

Word Up: Poetry in Your Ear

on air: https://www.facebook.com/OasisBroadcastingnetwork/?mibexttid=LQQJ4d

I am inviting you to listen in. Please let me know if you want more of this after tomorrow and we will work on making it a monthly event. Also, let me know if you are also a writer who would like to partake in an event like this. We need listeners, so please share, the amount of listeners and feedback will determine the future plans for more of this. Thanks and hope you listen in!' 10am - 11am US Eastern Time

Helene Ruizartist, curator, founder of The Urban Individualists Artist Collective www.artmajeur.com/artgirl

Introducing "Word Up: Poetry in Your Ear" Prepare to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of spoken word as "Word Up: Poetry in Your Ear" takes place live on air,  Saturday, May 18th, from 10am to 11am Eastern Time. Presented by the The Latin Jazz and Salsa Show Radio Oasis Broadcasting Hosted by Helene Ruiz and Luis Hidalgo, this special event promises to be a captivating exploration of poetry and spoken word. (links below to listen live below)

Drawing together a diverse array of poetic voices, "Word Up" showcases the talent and creativity of the following poets from across the nation. The lineup of poets for Sat. May 18th 2024 includes:

Mr. William "Wa Wa" Washington: NYC, Mr. Washington brings a unique blend of passion and insight to his poetry.

Bill Peters: Pennsylvania based, renowned writer and the publisher and founder of Inner Child Magazine, weaves words that resonate with depth and authenticity.

Ms. Kim Allen: California, Allen's writing sparkles with wit and passion

Ms. Monica Hill: Maryland-based, Hill's poetry offers a soul-stirring reflection on life, love, and identity.

Helene Ruiz: NYC born and raised,  now residing in Virginia, is a visual artist, curator and the founder of The Urban Individualists multi-media, multi- cultural artists Collective

Luis (Sweet Lou) Hidalgo: NYC born, residing in Virginia, founder of The Latin Jazz and Salsa Show, Latin Jazz and Salsa Festival

Joining this lineup are event hosts Helene Ruiz and Luis Hidalgo, the driving forces behind this event, they also will infuse the airwaves with one or two of their own verses during the event. 

"Word Up: Poetry in Your Ear" invites listeners to experience the power of spoken word, transporting them on a journey of imagination and emotion. Whether you're a seasoned poetry aficionado or new to the art form, this event promises something truly special for all.

Tune in on May 18th from 10am to 11am Eastern Time to be part of this unforgettable celebration of poetry and culture. Don't miss your chance to experience "Word Up" - where every word resonates and every verse sings.

For more information, contact: ( Each of the Poets can put their own contact info here when they share for their invites to contact them directly)Tune in to Listen Live 10am eastern time here https://www.facebook.com/OasisBroadcastingnetwork/?mibexttid=LQQJ4d 

News Article for Event Artistic Narratives opening 5-10-24

Every Picture Tells a Story, Article Richmond Magazine for upcoming show on may10/artistic narratives

"Artistic Narratives : a Fusion of Visual and Performance Art

Pine Camp Cultural Art Center Gallery/ Theatre Richmond VA

The art showcase curated by Helene Ruiz, uncovers the captivating interplay between art and storytelling.
The exhibit features an assortment of visual works displayed in the gallery, coupled with a live performance in the theater
section on the date of the opening reception.

This exhibition endeavors to underscore the profound potential of visual art in conveying narratives and evoking emotions
with visual works by artists Helene Ruiz ( https://www.artmajeur.com/helene-9318937)
and Orisegun Bennett-Olomidun (https://m.facebook.com/Olomidun/) ,
by incorporating a blend of traditional and contemporary painting styles to showcase a spectrum of artistic techniques and expressions.

Art, like life, is a myriad of colors, strokes, and textures that paint a unique story for each observer. Within these walls, we encourage you to be
the storyteller, to weave your own narrative inspired by the brushstrokes and imagery before you. Investigate how visual art communicates stories,
emotions, and lived experiences. Explore artistic styles incorporating elements of storytelling through painting. Instead of seeking a defined meaning,
allow the artwork to stir emotions within you. Let the forms, colors, and shadows whisper to the canvas of your soul, revealing the nuances of your
inner world. Engage in dialogue with fellow visitors, embracing the beauty of diverse perspectives.
Here, there are no 'right' or 'wrong' interpretations—only the endless shades of your creativity merging with each artist's intent.

7pm - 7:30pm Live Performance:
Renowned actress Karen Abercrombie (https://karenabercrombie.com/) will captivate the audience with her theatrical storytelling performances
in the theater, accompanied by the background rhythms of live percussion played by Orisegun Bennett-Olomidun.


6-7 view art, 7-7:30 enjoy the live performances relevant to the art and then at 7:30 come back to re - view the art and see if your interpretations are influenced by the performance, do you now see more? Do you see a different view? Engage in dialogue with the performers, artists and the fellow visitors, embracing the beauty of diverse perspectives. Here, there are no 'right' or 'wrong' interpretations—only the endless shades of your imagination and
your own creativity merging with the artist's intent.

We welcome press, photography, documentation and publicizing of this event.

Feel free to post on your social media, forward to your friends, and invite others.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by responding to this email.

I would like to thank you in advance for being a part of this enriching artistic odyssey.

"Artistic Narratives : a Fusion of Visual and Performance Art
Formal reception Opens 6pm - 8pm
Pine Camp Cultural Art Center
4901 Old Brook Rd Richmond VA 23227
Opening Reception Friday, May 10th, 2024 from 6-8pm

Got Game? Art Exhibit

208 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA, USA

Got Game?

anne's Visual Art Studio gallery Proudly Announces 
Got Game?: A Mixed Media Interactive Group Exhibition, 
Curated by Helene Ruiz will be on display
February 2 - April 12, 2024 with
Formal Opening Reception First Friday March 1 from 6-9PM.
Doors open 4PM. This event will be filmed by David James on TheOpening Night March 1, 2024.
(Sneak Preview of artwork First Friday February 2, 2024.)
Many Artists will be Available both nights for Interviews and Photography. More info below.
Free and Open to the Public 

208 W Broad ST Richmond VA / art district First Friday Artwalk
Mixed Media Interactive Group Exhibition Curated by Helene Ruiz
(Sneak Preview of artwork First Friday February 2, 2024 from 6-9PM.)

Formal Opening Reception First Friday March 1, 2024 from 6-9PM with Live Poetry Readings by Helene Ruiz, Dorothy Rice, Monica Hill, Kayla Bryson and Gloria Holwerda-Williams from 7-8pm and Improvisational Percussion performed by the multi-talented Mr. Orisegun Bennett-Olomidun.

This Event will be filmed on March 1st Opening Night by David James. 

Light Refreshments & Cash drinks.

Featuring visual artworks by Naomi Cordova, Robert Billings, Josue Fred, Amy Bryan, Keith Duncan, Gloria Holwerda-Williams, Dorothy Rice, Orisegun Bennett-Olomidun, Naomi Cordova, Tahanie Medina and Tanisha Medina, Helene Ruiz (curator) and Anne Hart Chay (gallery owner).

There are all kinds of games as we all know and they date back to the ancient humans. They are a part of all cultures as one of the oldest forms of human social interaction. They are expressions of play which allow people to go beyond imagination and physical activity. Games include the uncertainty of outcome, rules, competition, chance, goals and also personal enjoyment. Then there are the other types of games such as; the games people tend to play with one another that evade, deceive, or misinform (about something) in order to manipulate them or achieve some desired outcome. There are the games that people can play in order to cheat or deceive another and are dishonest about what they know or intend to do in order to gain an advantage. There are the games of the occult, some that claim to connect us to those that have crossed over and can relay messages between us and those who have passed. Some claim to be able use their game to help you find love, to get what you want or change the course of a foreseen or unforeseen possible outcome. Other games can claim to see future, past or present and intend to direct people in seeing what their future holds, in their decision making and/or to help confirm their intuitions. In this group exhibition we seek to explore the many forms of "games" in different aspects of their meaning or intent by using a variety of mediums and styles. Additionally, the exhibit will also explore the darker side of games such as game addictions, manipulation and the impact it has on society and individuals. So many Games! So who wants to play!?

Curator's Statement:
"My vision for this group art exhibit is to explore the various themes and inspirations behind games in all their forms, including board games, card games, mind games and more. Each artist will use their medium of choice to explore the concept of games and how they relate to our everyday lives. The exhibit will feature a diverse range of mediums, including painting, mixed media, and installations, as well as interactive elements such as playable games. Each artist will be encouraged to push the boundaries of their medium and explore new techniques and styles in order to create thought-provoking and impactful works. Some of the exhibiting artists have collaborated with one another in a game invented by the Surrealists in the 1900s called The Exquisite Corpse. The visual collaboration results will be on exhibit and the written collaborative game result will be read at the end of the poetry performances on March 1st formal opening. We will explain how this exquisite corpse game is played so all can understand the concept, the fun and the beauty of it. At the main reception on March 1st, the exhibit will also include interactive elements, such as game demonstrations and an exquisite corpse written game for the audience to be a part of that will be read once completed during the live poetry. This will further engage viewers and spark conversation. I want to ensure a balance of perspectives, and this exhibition will include both established and emerging artists. By featuring a range of artists, I hope to encourage a dialogue about the importance of games in art and culture and how it reflects on society and individuals.
Through this exhibit, I aim to showcase the power of games to inspire and connect people, and to inspire viewers to see the world through a new lens, and to find the game in their own lives." - Helene Ruiz

Helene Ruiz is an Artist, Activist and She brings her vision of "The Urban Individualists" to Got Game? on display February 2- April 12, 2024 at anne's Visual Art Studio gallery in the Richmond Arts District Historic RVA. Ruiz has exhibited and has been published internationally and nationally. Her artwork is in private collections throughout the U.S. Helene Ruiz currently resides in Richmond, VA.

Newspaper Article

Extraordinary Art Exhibit "This, That, and the Other" Sparks Profound Dialogue Between Past and Present

Black Iris Gallery 321 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA, USA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Extraordinary Art Exhibit "This, That, and the Other" Sparks Profound Dialogue Between Past and Present

RVA's Black Iris Gallery Unveils Thought-Provoking Group Exhibition Curated by Helene Ruiz

Richmond, VA — We are thrilled to announce an eagerly anticipated exhibition, "This, That, and the Other," a captivating exploration of the interconnectedness of history and the contemporary world. Curated by the vision of Helene Ruiz, this remarkable group exhibition will debut on October 6th, 2023 from 6-9 at the Black Iris Gallery located at 321 W Broad St Richmond VA, coinciding with RVA's First Friday Artwalk. Featuring a diverse ensemble of artists including Helene Ruiz, Tahanie Medina, Naomi Cordova, Dorothy Rice, and Josue Fred with Improvisational Drumming by Silvano Ferrin and Luis Hidalgo. The exhibit promises an immersive experience that challenges the boundaries of conventional aesthetics.

Live Broadcast by Oasis Broadcasting Latin Jazz and Salsa Radio Show

You can watch live 10-6-2023 @ 5pm Eastern Time.  Link here: https://vimeo.com/event/3749237

Mark your calendars for the opening night on October 6th, from the hours of 7 to 8pm, as it offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with the artists. The event will commence with an artist talk and an enlightening Q&A session, fostering an environment for visitors to delve into the artists' minds and gain deeper insights into their creative processes, this artist talk begins 7pm till 7:15pm, then from 7:15pm to 8pm, the evening will be enriched by captivating live poetry readings from Dorothy Rice, Joseph Coleman, and Kayla Bryson. The highlight of the night will be a reading by the acclaimed Karen Abercrombie, renowned for her multifaceted contributions to film, stage, and activism.

"This, That, and the Other" ingeniously weaves historical narratives with contemporary concerns, inviting viewers to confront discomfort and engage in meaningful dialogue. Through thought-provoking installations and narratives, the artists unearth hidden truths that challenge the status quo, catalyzing intellectual stimulation, empathy, and a profound understanding of our world.

Curator Helene Ruiz invites viewers to embrace this transformational journey, stating, "Together, let us forge a deeper understanding of our world, embracing the transformative power of art to incite change, awareness, and dialogue."

Originally conceived as a solo exhibition, "This, That, and the Other" evolved into a collaborative endeavor that aligns perfectly with Helene Ruiz's artistic vision. The exhibit features an extensive collection of her own work, complemented by contributions from fellow artists who address nuanced perspectives she might have missed.

Join us for this unforgettable exploration as "This, That, and the Other" promises an enduring impact on both mind and soul. The exhibition will be held the Black Iris Gallery, 321 West Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220 October 6th 2023 and thereafter by appointment only.     https://www.blackirissocialclub.com/

About Karen Abercrombie:

Karen Abercrombie is an award-winning actress, storyteller, activist, and environmentalist. With notable appearances in television shows like 'The Inspectors', 'Vampire Diaries', and impactful roles in films such as 'War Room' and 'Discarded Things', Karen's artistry transcends entertainment to create a positive impact on the world. As the founder of Earth Mother Entertainment, LLC, Karen continues to channel her creative gifts to influence meaningful change.https://karenabercrombie.com/

https://www.imdb.com/filmosearch/?sort=year&role=nm1620433

About the Curator: Helene Ruiz - A Lifelong Artistic Journey

Helene Ruiz, a native of New York City, has nurtured her artistic spirit since early childhood, fueled by a deep-rooted passion for drawing and painting. Encouraged by her father, an artist in his own right, she embarked on a lifelong journey of creative exploration. With a firm artistic foundation, Helene has shared her creations with audiences across national and international exhibitions. In October 2008, Helene Ruiz embarked on an ambitious endeavor, founding the Urban Individualists, a collective that brings together visual and performing artists from diverse backgrounds. At the helm of this multicultural, multimedia, and global network, Ms. Ruiz has dedicated herself to harmonizing unique talents into a harmonious whole. The Urban Individualists believe fervently in the potency of collective expression, melding their individual styles to craft a resonant artistic narrative. Helene's leadership has guided the curation and orchestration of a multitude of multimedia exhibitions, offering emerging artists a platform to showcase their artistry, bolster their portfolios, and garner recognition. Over time, Helene has garnered acclaim for her impactful contributions to the world of art. She received a grant from The Wheeler Foundation in 2007, and in 2009, the Salmagundi Foundation in Brooklyn, NY, acknowledged her talents with an artists' grant. The Disciples of Humanity recognized her remarkable contributions to culture, education, and art in 2011, acknowledging her efforts in enriching diverse communities. 

Exhibition

Thank you to those who have liked and collected my works

Upcoming Events

Exhibition

C&G

C&G Artists Opening Reception Friday 6-9pm December 9th,2022
C & G  hosts an art exhibition in collaboration with The Urban Individualists Artists Collective
The imagery in this themed event will explore the ambiance of urban, suburban and rural life through paintings and recycled found objects and mixed media.
Meet the Artists on Friday December 9th, 2022 from 6pm-9pm at our opening reception C&G located at 9200 Stony Point Parkway Suite 114
CITY COUNTRY , COUNTRY CITY featuring art works by ; Josue Fred (paintings)Helene Ruiz (paintings) Robert Billings aka "Reuven" (featuring his "Dragonfly series" of mixed media and found objects that he has recycled into both functional and decorative 3d pieces of art)

Refreshments while supplies last.   

A portion of proceeds will be donated to The Sisters Network (http://www.sistersnetworkinc.org/ ; Sisters Network® Inc. is committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African American community.)
Parking in the lot by PF Changs

Online exhibition Phoenix gallery

Phoenix Gallery, West 28th Street, NYC, NY, USA

https://www.phoenix-gallery.com/helene-ruiz.html

My latest painting : The Roaring 20s

home

Main Branch - Richmond Public Library, East Franklin Street, Richmond, VA, USA

HOME

 https://www.richmond.com/news/local/hanover/mechanicsville-local/local-resident-brings-memories-of-nyc-to-life-through-her/article_cee71a7e-a7dc-11e9-8cdd-cfc30ae6661e.html 

a series of acrylic on canvas paintings by Helene Ruiz cr2019

Home is culture, objects, buildings you’ve lived in, friends, family, fun, games and even where your heart ached for the first time, where you fell in love and out of love for the first time, your first friend, your first fight, your first everything; where you laughed, cried, worried, and felt powerful and determined as well as where you first felt powerless and confused. It is a memory of double-dutch and that jump rope made out of anything you can find like old venetian blind cords or an old rope you found in the trash, it’s the stick and the ball, it’s hop scotch, it’s a game we called skullies where we used old soda caps to play, it’s the fire hydrant which was the urban public pool to cool off on   hot summer days, it’s the people peering from their windows watching over us, it’s the sound of the mister softee ice cream truck and its tune that made your mouth water for your favorite ice cream treat and it’s a reminder of how naturally we shared our ice cream with the other kids and they shared with us if any of us didn’t have a quarter.  The fire escape was where your mom put a small hibachi grill and we had a family “barbeque” and if it was a very hot day you can sit on the fire escape and get some fresh air and maybe even a cool breeze. 

Home, my home, NYC is a city of diversity, a city of many different people from all around the world all packed into a small space. It is where we all become one as we lived side by side. It is where we grew up together and respected each-others differences and where one another’s differences enhanced each of us as human beings with an ability to adapt to difference and embrace those differences. Home is where we remember being brought up.  Home is a huge part of what has molded us and remained in our spirit no matter where else we may have relocated. Home is where we feel a special connection to something. Home is like an old huge tree with large, long, thick and very deep roots. 

These paintings are done from my imagination and my memories of growing up in New York City, my home, always my home and although I have relocated many times, it remains the place where I can truly call “home”.  It is where my memories of being creative enough to participate on a daily basis with other kids in order to create a playground within a concrete and a very cluttered compact space. All this has been influential in my artistic creativity and in my imagination.  It is a part of what made the artist in me. It is both my most painful and most pleasurable of memories.  Whenever I visit home since gentrification, I yearn to see kids playing and people interacting like they did when I was growing up. I yearn to hear the New Yawk accent that I know so well and is so strongly imbedded in me and is just another part who I am and all this makes me realize that modern technology has replaced so much of human socializing, the imagination, the physical activities that I remember as a regular part of life.   This series of works are just a juxtaposed dreamlike portrayal of the paintings I have done from my memories and my imagination of growing up in NYC. I hope it can help to show the other side of what has always been a stereotypical portrayal of a dangerous and harsh city, and although that also is a reality, the memories of this side of life in NYC are also a reality. Everything has its Yin and Yang.