Andean Kayak: for Pablo Neruda (Primary Title)
Rafael Ferrer, American, born Puerto Rico, born 1933 (Artist)
"My work is not about the people in particular [cultures], but is about a fantasy of what those people have become." —Rafael Ferrer
Ferrer’s art addresses his own Puerto Rican heritage as well as each individual’s search for identity and personal meaning. In the 1970s, for an imaginary primitive culture, Ferrer developed voyage-themed images and artifacts, including maps of unknown terrain and vessels such as this kayak.
Ferrer’s use of galvanized corrugated steel—a common roofingmaterial—connects with his memories of impoverished tropical dwellings. The work is named for the South American mountain range and the Chilean poet, diplomat, and politician who won the 1971 Nobel Prize in Literature.
"Contemporary Sculpture from the VMFA Collection", Bayly Art Museum, Univ of VA, Charlotseville, VA, 3/21 - 5/24/92
Contemporary Sculpture in the Collection of the VMFA", VMFA, 6/25 - 8/11/91
Bedford Gallery, Longwood College, Farmville, VA, 17 Jan - 19 Feb 1988
"Rafael Ferrer - Impassioned Rythms: Laguna Gloria Art Museum, Austin, Texas, Sept 3 - Oct 24, 1982; Gibbes Art Gallery, Charleston, South Carolina, Nov 10 - Dec 31, 1982; Univ of South Florida Art Galleries, Tampa, Aug 29 - Oct 8, 1983
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
