Pace University Art Gallery hosts New York Latin American Art Triennial exhibit, “Abya Yala: Structural Origins”

Works featured explore the connection between inherited ancestral practices and contemporary art

Pace University Art Gallery is pleased to co-present the 2022 New York Latin American Art Triennial (NYLAAT), a series of exhibitions and cultural programming at seven sites across New York City that launched earlier this month. The portion of the Triennial at Pace University Art Gallery opened with a public reception from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., remaining on view through October 29, 2022.

Titled, "Abya Yala: Structural Origins,” the 2022 NYLAAT examines the various processes and forms of creation inspired by traditional methodologies, materials and concepts which were implemented during the different stages of cultural and intellectual growth on the American continent. This project explores the inevitable repercussion that past generations had on the aesthetic, cultural or social values present in contemporary art in Latin America today. It also refers to the evolutionary processes in the arts which have influenced the different transformations that Latin American art has undergone. The 2022 NYLAAT seeks to establish the link between contemporary art on the continent and the premeditated use of materials, elements and forms of autochthonous expression of the first inhabitants of this region from the mats, baskets, goldsmith, pottery, textiles, altars, rituals, paintings closely related to tapestry, sculptures in clay, stone, metal, etc.

The 17 artists featured in the NYLAAT exhibition at Pace University Art Gallery include Allegra Pacheco (Costa Rica), Ana De Orbegoso (Perú), Armando Mariño (Cuba), Beradahil Marcelis "Bera Bauza” (Venezuela), José Castrellón (Panamá), José Chi Dzul (México), Karen Macher Nesta (Perú), Márcia Falcão (Brazil), Mariela Martin (Argentina), Mauricio Esquivel (El Salvador), Melissa Misla (US), Mildor Chevalier (Haití), Sabina Puppo (Uruguay), Sandra Monterroso (Guatemala), Santiago Jr. Ayala Cruz (Bolivia), Sharon Pérez (Bolivia), Soraya Abu Naba’a (Dominican Republic).

Exhibit dates/times (all free and open to the public)

On view: September 23–October 29, 2022

Artist/Curator Panel Discussion: Wednesday, October 12, 6:00 p.m.

Artist Talk by Melissa Misla: Thursday, October 27, 1:20 p.m.

* Please note that for COVID safety, proof of vaccination is required, face coverings are welcome, and no food or drink will be served.

About the New York Latin American Art Triennial

The New York Latin American Art Triennial is dedicated to organizing exhibitions and cultural programming through New York City to promote our Latin American culture. These exhibitions are intended to provide diverse educational programs that allow a place to engage with contemporary art expressions and investigate a deeper understanding of its role in society. We believe in the fundamental role of education and advocacy through art and in the preservation of the artistic and historic cultural legacies of the Latin American and Caribbean region. The New York Latin American Art Triennial seeks to galvanize the cultural landscape of the communities, complement the academic and visual arts programs of the galleries and institutions, and foster a wider appreciation of contemporary art and cultural understanding. Under the umbrella of the Bronx Hispanic Festival, additional Triennial exhibits and events are scheduled at BronxArtSpace, Boricua College (Bronx Campus), Governors Island at 405-B Colonels Row, Lehman College Art Gallery, Longwood Art Gallery at Hostos Community College, Pace University Art Gallery, Queens College Art Center, Teatro Latea at the Clemente Soto Velez Cultural and Educational Center.

About the Pace University Art Gallery

Founded with the conviction that art is integral to society, the Pace University Art Gallery is a creative laboratory and exhibition space that supports innovation and exploration for both artists and viewers. Open to students, staff, and faculty from across the Pace campuses and, equally, to the Lower Manhattan community and visitors from around the world, the Art Gallery encourages personal investigation and critical dialogue via thought-provoking contemporary art exhibits and public programming. Enhancing the Art Department's Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts programs, the Art Gallery offers students real-world opportunities to exhibit their own art and to work directly with professional artists to install and promote exhibitions.

About Dyson College of Arts and Sciences

Pace University’s liberal arts college, Dyson College, offers more than 50 programs, spanning the arts and humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and pre-professional programs (including pre-medicine, pre-veterinary, and pre-law), as well as many courses that fulfill core curriculum requirements. The College offers access to numerous opportunities for internships, cooperative education and other hands-on learning experiences that complement in-class learning in preparing graduates for career and graduate/professional education choices.

About Pace University

Pace University has a proud history of preparing its diverse student body for a lifetime of professional success as a result of its unique programs that combine immersive academics and real-world experiences. Pace is ranked the #1 private, four-year college in the nation for upward economic mobility by Harvard University’s Opportunity Insights, evidence of the transformative education the University provides.