Artist George Rodez Selected as Poster Artist of Carnaval Miami

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) February 22, 2012 -- George Rodez describes his selection as poster artist for Carnaval Miami as such: "I have been awarded other posters as an artist in the past, but never before has any one poster represented something that was so dear to my heart. Carnaval Miami is a melting pot of cultures that come together to celebrate what has become one of the most important and celebrated events of the year. I am humbled and grateful to have been chosen as the poster artist for such a significant event in our community.

What started in 1978 by the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana as an event to share the Cuban culture in Miami has become the virtual Pan-American showcase it is today. CARNAVAL MIAMI is a two-week festival that draws close to ONE MILLION residents and tourists to the Miami area; it is celebrated each month of March with events that include concerts, footraces, culinary competitions, galas, a weekend of art & jazz, and the nation’s largest street festival. This year the festival takes place from February 18 - March 11, 2012.

This year the Kiwani's selected artist George Rodez to grace the cover of the festival's posters and other product merchandising. Rodez created a piece specifically for the festival which he calls, Flowers in Carnaval. He states, Flowers in Carnaval belongs to my Afro-Caribbean Series. When I was awarded the poster for Carnaval Miami’s 35th annual celebration by the Kiwanis of Little Havana, I knew right then and there that this would be my series of choice for this piece of artwork since this body of work represents not only my Cuban roots but all Latin cultures throughout."

The piece contains many representations which Rodez goes on to describe: "In Flowers in Carnaval, there are 35 Malanga leaves representing the 35 years of celebrating Carnaval Miami. The Malanga is a vine-like plant which grows rapidly and intertwines itself around just about anything. Almost every Latin home I know and then some have this plant. In my paintings I show what these plants (the people of Cuba) are doing when no one is paying attention. It also represents what Cubans have to do to survive and keep their very existence and culture alive just 90 miles away from the land of plenty. The painting also has 8 Flowers representing Calle Ocho, and the musical instruments which is what Carnaval is all about – its music and dance. The Double bass represents my love for the music of the legendary “Cachao” because his music transports me to the music my parents listened to while in Cuba back when it was an Island of abundance and prosperity. I have created many paintings from this series listening to his music."

Rodez will also be participating in the Artist Village at the Carnaval on the Mile event on March 3 & 4, 2012. This event takes place in the city of Coral Gables, Florida on its famed thoroughfare, Miracle Mile. The event runs from Saturday, March 3, 11 am to Midnight to Sunday, March 4, 11 am to 8 pm. The event is a festival of fine art, jazz & funk, fine cuisine, cocktail pavilion & children’s entertainment. Three concert stages, a mile of paintings, crafts, photography & jewelry of the highest caliber; one cultural experience for people with stylish taste!

More information can be found online at http://www.rodezart.com

carnaval miami     carnaval on the mile     george rodez     kiwanis of little havana     miami artist     miracle mile