Quetzalcoatl by Rene Lopez
Former Napa Valley College student and recent San Francisco Art Institute graduate Rene Lopez exhibits his Mexican heritage inspired work at the NVC Visual Art Center Gallery in November.
Rene Lopez started taking art classes at Napa Valley College in the fall of 2004 to pass the time before his night shift started at the Cameo Theater in St. Helena. He was 18 years old, just out of St, Helena High School with no plans to further his education. He landed in art classes with faculty Erik Shearer, Nancy Willis and Fain Hancock who all recognized that Rene had artistic talent, a distinct voice and something to say.
Rene studied at NVC until Spring 2007. During his time here he took art classes and developed his skills and began to build a portfolio of his artwork. His instructors encouraged him to apply to art school and took him to National Portfolio Day held at the Art Institute of San Francisco. There he met with representatives from art schools al over the world.
Because of its history and prestige and proximity to his home in Angwin, Rene decided to apply to the Art Institute of San Francisco. Rene was awarded the Presidential Scholarship, the highest award offered by SFAI and was able to finish his BFA at the Art Institute with full funding.
Rene was the first in his family to attend college. He is applying to graduate schools on the east coast.
“I use my work as a tool to define, explore, protect and promote my cultural heritage,” Rene wrote. Rene’s work incorporates issues and qualities of Mexicanos, Aztlan, Honor, La Raza, Machismo and Chicanismo. Rene is inspired by artists Dr. Lacra, Manuel Ocampo, Enrique Chagoya and Jesus Helguera.
The opening reception is Thursday, November 10, 4:30-6:30 p.m. in the Visual Art Center 3700 lobby Gallery. The show runs through November 23.
For more information contact Fain Hancock fhancock@napavalley.edu or 707 253-3203.
Posted: November 8, 2011