The exhibition and workshop will take place next Saturday, August 31, to celebrate the American spirit
Artist and musician Mateo Blanco is recognized for his unique interpretations of the American flag, using textiles and unusual materials. On this occasion, Mateo once again gives an artistic twist to his “Old Glory”, to celebrate Labor Day as well as the 75th anniversary of the Boca Raton Museum of Art, where the exhibition will take place on Saturday, August 31, 2024, from 12:00 to 4:00 pm.
On this day, Blanco will host a workshop in the gallery’s Creation Station, where visitors are invited to create their own personalized American flag art. In addition, Blanco’s new artwork, “Credit Flag,” will also be on display during the workshop.
“Credit Flag,” by Mateo Blanco, is made from 42 credit cards he used over a 25-year period. Visitors can discover and learn about his creative process before making their own American flag-inspired artwork to take home. Creation Station is a drop-in art program for all ages to explore the visual arts and is offered free with museum admission.
According to Mateo, “Credit Flag” has political, economic, social, and cultural significance, but like everything in life, it depends on how you see things, which is why I invite you on August 31 to create your own flag based on your own perspective on our great nation.”
The Boca Raton Museum of Art has two other works by Mateo Blanco in its collection. “July 4, 2020”, is a flag created with pieces of fabric from the clothing Blanco wore at his college graduation, and “Native Flag” is a textile flag that represents the artist’s Colombian roots with handwoven fabrics and native plants from his homeland, as a fusion of culture.
The Boca Raton Museum of Art also holds personal meaning for Blanco. “I was a young man who visited the museum while studying at Florida Atlantic University,” he said. “I dreamed of exhibiting my art there. You too can make your dreams come true.”
“Credit Flag”, will also be on display in September, in the state of Ohio, at The Butler Institute of American Art. Mateo Blanco is represented by the Rosembaum Contemporary gallery, located in Boca Raton and Palm Beach.