Celebrating the opening of the exhibition “Desde el Charco,” YoungArts hosted a reception at the YoungArts Gallery featuring the captivating works of Isabella Mellado, a 2014 YoungArts Winner in Visual Arts. Curated by Luisa Múnera, Senior Manager, Artistic Programs, and Curator at YoungArts, the solo exhibition, running through Miami Art Week, invites visitors on a profound exploration of self-discovery and the complexities of being a queer Puerto Rican of the diaspora.
Artistic Exploration
Isabella Mellado’s exhibition delves into the realm of symbolism drawn from folklore, mythology, tarot, astrology, and everyday life in Puerto Rico. Through paintings and photographs, the artist captures the inherent duality of her identity, presenting a rich narrative that resonates with the queer experience. The exhibition serves as a visual odyssey, prompting viewers to engage with the intricate layers of Mellado’s artistic expression.
Gathering of Creativity
Leadership, artists, art enthusiasts, and members of the arts community converged at the YoungArts Gallery for the exhibition’s opening reception. Attendees had the opportunity to explore Mellado’s works, each piece laden with meaning, while connecting with the artist herself. The event drew notable figures from the arts world, including YoungArts President Clive Chang, Vice President of Artistic Programs Lauren Slone, board member Rosie Gordon-Wallace, and curators Ombretta Agro, Marie Vickles, and Adeze Wilford. Among the distinguished guests were artists Robert Chambers, Mia Chaplin, Ellon Gibbs, Adelisa Selimbasic, and YoungArts past winners Nina Ahmadi, Leonardo Bacan, and Christell Victoria Roach.
This exhibition not only showcases Mellado’s artistic prowess but also contributes to the broader conversation around identity, symbolism, and the multifaceted experiences of the queer community. The YoungArts Gallery stands as a dynamic space for creative dialogue and exploration, offering a platform for emerging artists to share their unique narratives.