2018 Create Change Fellow | 2020 Creative Action Fund Awardee
Harlem | Drawing, Installation, Painting, Photography, Sculpture, Visual Arts
BIO
Dionis Ortiz is a committed single father and artist. He feels a sense of responsibility towards his son to foster a connection to Caribbean culture through language, music and art.
Creative Action Fund 2020 | Let There Be Light
Dionis Ortiz will construct a kaleidoscopic abstract collage using enamel paint on vinyl floor tile patterns. Using materials that symbolize the immigrant experience and the varied skin colors in the artist’s family and Dominican community, Dionis will also provide opportunities for engagement through live artist talks.
What artist, curator, activist or project has influenced or inspired you?
Pepon Osorio. I have always appreciated his work because it speaks of identity, culture, masculinity and community. His use of objects, collage and photographs creates a narrative within a narrative.
What place in your neighborhood is personally meaningful to you and why?
152nd Street and Riverside Drive overlooking the Hudson River. There is a large open rotunda I stand on whenever I feel stressed out. I grew up in Harlem all my life and it has always felt congested. Looking over the Hudson River allows for me to have a moment of feeling open and to breathe. I close my eyes and listen to the sounds of the water and traffic on the highway. It relaxes me and sometimes I fantasize about flying.
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Artist Website