Miguelangel Ruiz: Ancient Gods - Paintings, Drawings, Mixed Media

Mr. Ruiz' work is both abstract and narrative-based. His work consists of iconic references to legends, and folktales from various mythologies, histories, and religions. He seeks to create unified narratives by combining seemingly disparate narratives from different storytelling traditions. Mr. Ruiz believes that an inclusive and internationalist sense of identity is the key towards a brighter future.

According to the Chinese calendar, the year 2004 will be the Year of the Monkey. Mr. Ruiz' most recent body of work is an homage to the Legend of the Monkey King as retold in the books, Monkey by Arthur Whaley, and Journey to the West by David Kherdian (both translations of the original Chinese written by Wu Ch'eng-en in the 1500's). Monkey symbolizes the restless rebelliousness inherent in the Human soul. The monkey has also come to symbolize the concept of Evolution and Origins.

Mr. Ruiz has been involved in the Visual Arts as a curator, teacher, writer, as well as painter for many years. He has exhibited widely throughout New York City and has received a 2003 BRIO Award from the Bronx Council on the Arts, New York for Outstanding Draughtsmanship. This will be his first solo show.