AUSTIN, TX (October 7, 2021) – Texan artist RF. Alvarez exhibits a new series of paintings in a one-night showcase in East Austin, held on October 28th at 7:00pm at Distribution Hall.
The solo exhibition, titled "Tender Is the Heart," includes 15+ new works addressing the relationship the queer body has with masculinity and the Texas landscape. Alvarez dissects his own relationship with his Texan-Mexican background, the borderlands of his childhood, and the specific brand of cowboy masculinity that shaped his experiences. From there, the series builds a narrative centered around the queer body as an escape from homegrown pressures and a counterbalance to the alienation within masculinity. The result is a body of work that is often mnemonic, tonal, blended, and unabashedly tender.
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, RF. Alvarez's most recent exhibitions include a sold out solo show with Uprise Art in New York City, a group show with Ruiz-Healy Art in the artist's hometown, and consistent design collaboration with Martin & Brockett in Los Angeles. The show is curated by his sister, Alexandra Victoria Alvarez, who has previously held positions with Gallery OMR, Blue Star Contemporary, and the Mexican Cultural Institute of San Antonio.
“Tender is the Heart is the first time I’m addressing my Texan roots and in many ways this body of work is a reconciliation...” says Alvarez. “As an artist, my objective is both an exploration of the medium and an excavation of deep-rooted sentiments; feelings like shame, desire, confidence, and a craving to belong. With this series I've arrived a bit closer to the heart: images and objects that embrace their vagueness and reveal their true nature with time."
The venue, a refurbished beer distribution warehouse, has its own ties to a Texas heritage. Alvarez considers it the perfect venue for these works. VIP and Press reception begins at 6pm, with general opening at 7pm. The exhibition will occur in tandem with live music in the warehouse’s courtyard, produced by Sofar Sounds.
For more information, call 817-564-5118 or visit rfalvarez.com/tender