Daniel Rios Rodriguez's 'Open this Wall' at Ruby City Blends Autobiography and Found Objects
At Ruby City's Studio annex in San Antonio, Texas artist Daniel Rios Rodriguez showcases 'Open this Wall,' an exhibition reflecting his experiences in the city from 2013 to 2025. Rodriguez, originally from Killeen, Texas, holds degrees from the University of Illinois and Yale and currently teaches at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. His artwork features paintings framed with rough, sculptural elements made from found materials like nails, rope, and Texas mountain laurel. Influenced by Texas outsider artist Forrest Bess, Rodriguez's work has been noted by the New York Times for its folk-art essence. The exhibit includes significant pieces such as 'Lion Feathers' and two large eagle paintings, alongside the title piece, a teal labyrinth of lines, all on walls adorned with floral designs, evoking the San Antonio riverwalk. This display marks his first large-scale works and will be available until October 4, 2026.
Key facts
- Exhibition 'Open this Wall' by Daniel Rios Rodriguez at Ruby City's Studio annex in San Antonio.
- Rodriguez lived in San Antonio from 2013 to 2025; the work is autobiographical.
- Artist born in Killeen, Texas; graduate of University of Illinois and Yale; teaches at Southern Methodist University.
- Influenced by Texas outsider artist Forrest Bess; New York Times notes folk-art feel.
- Paintings use rough-hewn frames and found materials: nails, rope, laurel, foil, copper, limestone, cement, wood, marbles.
- Central wall angled like an open door; includes graphite and pen-and-ink drawings of riverwalk.
- Large-scale works include 'Lion Feathers,' two eagle paintings, and 'Open This Wall' labyrinth.
- Gallery walls painted teal with floral accents to evoke riverwalk; runs through October 4, 2026.
- Exhibition includes Rodriguez's first large-scale works.
- No didactic wall text; an exhibition booklet provides backstories.
Entities
Artists
- Daniel Rios Rodriguez
- Forrest Bess
- Linda Pace
- John Updike
Institutions
- Ruby City
- Glasstire
- New York Times
- University of Illinois
- Yale
- Southern Methodist University
- San Antonio College
Locations
- San Antonio
- Texas
- Killeen
- Dallas
- Chris Park