Hector Vega: El arte y yo

By Arooj Ashraf

Renowned Puerto Rican artist Hector Vega shared his colorful and vibrant paintings with members of La Mesa Española on March 15, 2007 at Cleveland State University’s Mather Mansion. Vega talked about his passion for the arts and said parents should encourage their children to move away from TV and spend some time painting or doing crafts. “It broadens your horizons,” said Vega.
 

Artist Hector Vega and Luz-Elena Klopp.

Horizons are certainly expanding for Vega who has been commissioned to create a 20ft sculpture for the Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital which will unveil this fall or early winter. The sculpture is a child, (girl on one side and boy on the other) holding a rainbow that will be internally illuminated. His work will also grace the lobby of the new Arts Building at Cuyahoga Community College.

Vega uses exotic, rich and vibrant colors in all his work and he credits this to his vivacious fun loving Latino heritage. Early in his career, Vega was discouraged from a career in the arts and even from using the colorful palate. Critics told him his vibrant colors won’t be accepted in the dark and dreary North American arts.

Vega insisted art doesn’t have to be mute or conform. He is influenced by the works of Picasso saying he appreciates the artist’s humor and simple interpretations.

Vega’s most distinguished works are the agricultural montages of Cleveland’s skyline. Now, he has been approached by San Francisco, La Vegas, and other cities across the nation. His representatives are working with the Governor of Puerto Rico to showcase his work there.

Vega said his devotion and passion is lifting his career and he gives back to the community in many ways—from charity auctions to speaking with inner-city students. He remembers what it was like being unknown, where no one paid any attention to him.

Ahora, he likes to reach out and give a voice those who are disadvantaged. He said parents should support their child’s ambition to pursue a career in the arts, “At the same time, encourage them to have a minor to fall back on.”

Vega joked he could create a sitcom around his mother’s support of his work, especially when she is at one of his shows. “She’d say things like ‘Oh I can’t believe they are paying this much for this!’” he said with a smile on his face.

Fame, fortune, and tremendous praise have not gone to Vega’s head. Still humble and loyal to his heritage, Vega’s candid, honest mannerisms demand respect. As a token of his appreciation, he presented each guest with a singed replica of his painting.

Anna Guggenbiller stands next to her favorite paintings from Vega, the cartuchos.

1

La Mesa Española es una organización en Cleveland, sin fines de lucro, que desde la decada de los treinta del siglo pasado se ha dedicado a fomenter la lengua española y las culturas de los paises hispanoparlantes.

Nuestras actividades incluyen programas sobre el arte, la literatura, la música, la tecnología, la medicina, y más. El variado calendario annual también incluye dos picnic durante el verano y un baile navideño. Si usted desea mas información contacto Sonia Pipenburg en el número de teléfono: 440.734.9985.

Visit Hector Vega at: www.hectorvega.com