“My series titled “Memoria & Esperanza Puertorriqueña” seeks to capture the spirit and resilience of Puerto Rico, illuminating the challenges and deep cultural pride that bind us as a people. For too long, government neglect and broken promises have shaped our reality—through power failures, water shortages, and a deteriorating infrastructure that limits opportunities. My work addresses these systemic issues, not merely as a critique, but as a voice for the enduring hardships Puerto Ricans face daily. Using symbols as simple as a worn school desk, I reflect the erosion of an educational system that should empower our youth but instead leaves them unprepared, their potential neglected. This reality has driven many Puerto Ricans to leave their beloved island, as I once did, seeking opportunities that we hope might someday lead us home. My paintings channel both the sorrow of that departure and a deep yearning to return, rooted in the pride of our shared history and culture. Through vibrant imagery, sounds, and even flavors, my art invites audiences into the soul of Puerto Rican life. I want them to feel the rhythms of our music, the warmth of our food, and the deep familial bonds that define our community. For my fellow Boricuas, I hope these works evoke the comfort of a grandparent’s home—a place where we are seen, understood, and celebrated. We are the descendants of the cane fields, of the Taínos, of the jíbaro. Through this series, I honor our ancestors and bring attention to the struggles we continue to face, highlighting the resilience that lies at the heart of our identity. My art is a tribute to our heritage, our spirit, and the dream of a better future.”

— Eva