By THE STAR STAFF
Step into the world of University of Puerto Rico (UPR) professor Irmaris Santiago Rodríguez as she invites viewers on a journey of self-reflection and exploration of the often-overlooked beauty in our surroundings.
Her exhibition, “GENIUS LOCI: el espíritu del lugar,” showcases some 15 years of artistic work that masterfully intertwines her family roots, social upbringing and reflections on Puerto Rican identity.
Embracing the concept of placemaking, Santiago Rodríguez’s works inspire a deep appreciation for the unnoticed elements that shape our environments. She elegantly captures the world around her using form, light, shadow, movement, textures, stillness, color and transparency. By blending her architectural expertise with a keen eye for detail, she reveals the hidden layers of meaning within the spaces we inhabit.
“I grew up in the Las Margaritas and Cantera residential areas,” Santiago Rodríguez said. “The spaces are still the same, but the people are no longer there. There are things that must be highlighted that we no longer have.”
Her desire to honor her humble beginnings and the social transformations that have shaped her life is evident in her work.
As a professor at the Liga de Arte, Santiago Rodríguez created intimate displays that utilize natural light to engage viewers.
“It allowed me to create intimate spaces in front of the pieces, allowing the natural light to make them stand out,” she says.
Dilliam V. García Meléndez, a UPR-Carolina student, described one of the exhibition’s pieces, which features a round mirror.
“This piece consists of a circular mirror framed in wood, with colorful drawings, pieces of stone, and texts embedded in the frame. Items such as a coffee cup, houses, and text represent important aspects of Puerto Rican culture, evoking nostalgia for the experiences of citizens on the island,” García Meléndez noted in his remarks. “The work further integrates the observer through the mirror’s reflection, creating a personal and reflective experience regarding one’s identity. Additionally, the materials and colors used showcase the cultural and natural richness of Puerto Rico.”
Fabiola T. Pomar, another UPR-Carolina student, highlighted a series of photographs capturing the interplay between nature and infrastructure.
“The elements reflect the coexistence of nature and the industrial, an important theme in sustainable architecture,” she said. “When developing a new project, it is essential to consider the ecosystems involved. The contrast between materials and resources also promotes recycling and the use of renewable resources. Ultimately, the perception of the environment demonstrates how design is affected by climatic conditions and the function of the space.”
The “GENIUS LOCI: el espíritu del lugar” exhibition, currently on display until March 24 in the main lobby of José P. Fernández Miranda Library at UPR-Carolina, serves as a poignant reminder that the true essence of our surroundings lies in the intricate, often unseen layers of history and personal experiences that together form the fabric of our lives.
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