About
Celeste M. Rodriguez is a Puerto Rican-American artist born and raised in Camden, NJ. Her work explores Puerto Rico’s history, identity, and resistance. Through painting, drawing, and collage she examines themes of colonialism and economic exploitation, using bold colors, layered textures, and symbolic imagery to reclaim narratives of power and self-determination.
Rodriguez’s artistic process is driven by personal reflection and research. She experiments with mixed media, and found objects to create work that highlights both resilience and struggles of Puerto Rico. Her current work reimagines the island’s history, challenging traditional perspectives and amplifying new voices.
Rodriguez’s work has been exhibited locally at Camden FireWorks Art Gallery, Woodmere Art Museum, The Campus Gallery and the Stedman Gallery at Rutgers University-Camden. She received the Bruce Garrity Junior Painting Award, the Visual, Media, and Performing Arts Service Award, the William M. Hoffman Jr. Award, and the Brian McAndrews Memorial Award. Her art studio is based in the Camden FireWorks Art Gallery in Camden, New Jersey. She received her B.A. in Painting from Rutgers University-Camden.
Artist Statement
My work explores the painful and complex relationship between Puerto Rico and the United States, using visual storytelling to challenge traditional narratives of power, history, and identity. Through painting, drawing, sculpture, and collage, I examine themes of colonialism, cultural erasure, and resilience, creating pieces that confront the realities of exploitation while honoring the strength and spirit of the Puerto Rican people.
My creative process is shaped by a strong sense of cultural connection and a desire to uncover deeper truths. I engage with history, current events, and lived experiences—both personal and collective—to inform my work. Influenced by stories of resistance and resilience, I use visual language to express tensions, emotions, and questions that often go unspoken. Through symbolic elements, layered materials, and intentional contrasts, I strive to open space for dialogue and reflection. At the heart of my practice is a hope: to imagine a future for Puerto Rico grounded in dignity, self-determination, and cultural strength.
For me, art is personal and political. I reject the notion that Puerto Rico is merely an extension of the United States and instead reimagine it as a place of strength, history, and identity-one that deserves to be seen, heard, and ultimately, free.