Page 10 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Wednesday, November 25, 2020 Foundation Trust provides studio space for Malden artist’s first solo exhibit By Tara Vocino M alden artist Rebecca Flores-Mantilla hosted her first solo artist exhibit at Follow Your Art Community Studios in Melrose on Friday night – the first Foundation Trust “Emerging Artist.” The Foundation Trust provided a year-long studio space and a $300 supply stipend. The Foundation Trust seeks to advance inclusivity in the arts across cultural, neurological and gender identities, according to Foundation Trust Manager Lauren Liecau. “Just trying to find a space can be challenging, but to have someone provide it is a blessing,” said Flores-Mantilla, who showcased nine pieces and provided refreshments. Foundation Trust Executive Director Dr. Joseph Spinazzola congratulated Flores-Mantilla. “The Foundation Trust is proud to foster inclusivity in the arts in our community by creating new opportunities for diverse artists, such as this partnership with Follow Your Heart Community Studios,” Spinazzola said. Liecau said viewing Flores-Mantilla’s work after a tumultuous year is meaningful. “She created a special collection that reflects on our connections and memories, linked to food, family and culture – something all of us can relate to, particularly around the holidays.” The 2021 Emerging Artist Fellow is Gisella Bonilla, an Afro-Latina, who plans to create a series that she hopes will provoke conversations about healing from abuse, according to Liecau. Follow Your Heart Community Studios Founder/Executive Director Kris Rodolico with artist Rebecca Flores-Mantilla beside acrylic-on-canvas “Tribal Celebrations,” which focuses on food. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Artist Rebecca Flores-Mantilla with mentor Sara Gravante, at right, said oil-on-canvas “Timelines” has a nice, developing vision of spinach pie. Artist Rebecca Flores-Mantilla with her friend Kristyn McKenna beside the oil-on-canvas “Coffee Tableau,” which Kristyn said accurately depicts a floral coffee maker and expresso/decaf coffee cans. Rebecca Flores-Mantilla, daughter Marisa Mantilla, 11, and father Ed Mantilla in front of oil-on-canvas “Childhood Longings,” which Marisa said makes her feel sugary, happy and hungry. Artist Susan Lembo said about the oil-on-canvas “The Source” that she originally didn’t know that it is of a woman’s bikini line, adding that it merges well. Guests Michael McCormack and Elizabeth Christopher liked the color, texture and rough surface of this fruit painting.
11 Publizr Home