"Street Gloss"
Aerosol & Resin on Birch Cutout.
48" x 24".
Framed in white.
Chris "Chilly" Rodriguez: The Journey So Far
Robert C. and Susan Savage Community Gallery
April 16, 2025 - July 6, 2025
Discover a captivating exhibition where art serves as a powerful journey of self-expression, healing, and transformation for artist Chris "Chilly" Rodriguez. This exhibition invites you to experience a dynamic blend of color through large-scale murals and mixed-media works that explore themes of trauma, addiction, sobriety, love, and healing. Drawing from a background in graffiti and street art, Rodriguez uses vibrant colors, abstract patterns, and realism to create pieces that are a tool for empowerment and connection. Each work-created with materials like aerosol paint, acrylics, oils, and photography-is a reflection of the artist's introspection and emotional expression. Join us in witnessing the power of art to heal and inspire, leaving a lasting impact on the communities and spaces it inhabits.
Artist Statement
My work is a visual representation of my journey-trauma, addiction, sobriety, fear, love, and everything in between. I aim to capture the delicate balance of the human experience. Through large-scale public murals and canvas works, I explore the visual dance between darkness and light, using a mix of vibrant symphonies that blend abstract patterns, shapes, typography, and realism.
As a self-taught artist with a background in graffiti and street art, I am drawn to the idea that art is more than just color on a wall or canvas-it is a tool for healing and empowerment. My focus on murals allows me to witness firsthand the positive impact my work has on the communities where it lives.
My creative process begins with introspection, asking, "What am I feeling?" or "What am I trying to say?" I use a blend of materials including aerosol paint, acrylics, oils, paint markers, and photography to find the answers. While murals are my primary medium, I refuse to limit myself to traditional canvases. I create on multiple surfaces, such as three-dimensional wood cutouts, skateboards, and any object that compels me to cover it in color.
My work can be found on walls throughout my hometown of Toledo, Ohio, and in numerous cities across the United States. My goal as both an artist and a human is to leave behind a world better than the one I entered. By creating a body of work focused on healing the human spirit, I believe I am one step closer to achieving that goal.
Biography
Chris "Chilly" Rodriguez's journey from a troubled youth in Toledo to recognition as an artist and community leader is truly inspiring. Despite facing adversity and battling addiction, he found solace and passion in art, particularly in graffiti and street art. His story underscores the transformative power of creativity and determination.
After losing his left hand in an alcohol-related injury in 2018, through sheer grit and determination, Chris embarked on the journey to recovery, confronting his addiction head-on and emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before. Armed with a newfound sense of purpose, he turned his passion for art into a driving force for positive change.
His commitment to public art not only showcases his talent but serves as a catalyst for positive change within his community. By revitalizing run-down spaces and bringing art to areas that need it the most, Chris demonstrates the profound impact that art can have on urban environments and the people who inhabit them.
Today you can find Chris's work not only all over his hometown of Toledo, Ohio, but also in cities across the country. In 2022 Chris opened River East Gallery, which stands as a testament to his vision and perseverance, providing a platform for local and regional artists and elevating the cultural landscape of Toledo. His belief in the power of art to transcend adversity and unite communities is empowering. Through his work, he seeks to inspire others to find hope in the darkest of places and to embrace the transformative power of creativity. Chris's story serves as a reminder that with resilience and dedication, anyone can overcome their past and achieve their dreams.
Organized by the Toledo Museum of Art as part of the Robert C. and Susan Savage Community Gallery which operates as a catalyst of creativity, mentorship and opportunity while fostering mutually enriching relationships with local, regional, and national artists with an emphasis on community engagement.
All sales on original artwork are final. No discounts apply.
The exhibition ends on July 6, 2025. Purchases may be picked up after this date. Please contact 419-255-8000 ext. 7326 to schedule an appointment for pickup.
