“ Painting No. 4 (Cuarta)”

A reflection on transformation, loss, and becoming.

This piece is my fourth painting, as its name suggests — but it became much more than just a number in a sequence. It took me over a year to complete, not only because of the demands of life and work, but because of something much deeper: the passing of my father during the process. This painting became a space where I could hold grief, healing, and growth all at once.

“Cuarta” tells the story of my evolution as both an artist and a human being. It’s a visual diary of everything I’ve lived and learned in New York City — a place that has challenged, shaped, and awakened me.

There are three main creatures in this work, each representing a phase of my journey:

• The first, lying on the floor, reflects who I was when I first arrived in the city — bold, a little self-absorbed, and unaware of how much I had yet to learn. There was a quiet arrogance in me then, masking uncertainty. This figure captures that early version of myself, both flawed and full of potential.

• The second, sitting in lotus posture, reflects the spiritual awakening I experienced in my first year. Amidst the chaos of New York, I found stillness. I realized we are all one, fragments of the same divine energy. This figure represents awareness, unity, and the beginning of deep inner work.

• The third, standing tall, marks my second and third year in the city. It symbolizes the moment I understood that in order to truly grow and commit to my path as an artist, I had to let go of my ego. This creature stands in power and acceptance, ready to create with purpose.

Above them floats a blue star — a sacred symbol carrying a message to my father. Within it, in Spanish, are the words: “Te amo, papá.” Surrounding the star are spontaneous, intuitive brushstrokes — pure emotion, unfiltered love.

Above the star, a heart represents the universal love that binds us all. Just above that, a message reads: “Let’s keep our ego at the door” — though partially covered by two playful stickers: a golden star and a butterfly, symbols of my own metamorphosis as Rolando.

Lastly, two cherubs sit in the top corners of the canvas. They are an homage to Veracruz, the town where I was born and raised. They remind me that no matter how far I go, my roots are always with me.

This painting holds everything I couldn’t say in words during this chapter of my life. I hope that, in looking at it, you see a reflection of your own journey, too — your losses, your awakenings, your becoming.