IN A NEON-LIT TEXAS TOWN, FAR REMOVED FROM THE TYPICAL DUSTY RODEO, A MYSTERIOUS FIGURE EMBARKS ON A QUEST…
Contracommon is proud to present Neon Rodeo: Act 1, the first in a series of solo exhibitions by Chris Tobar Rodriguez. The exhibition will open with a reception on Saturday, October 5th from 4 – 7pm including a performance by the artist. Neon Rodeo: Act 1 will be on view in the gallery from October 1st through October 28th, 2024.
Chris Tobar Rodriguez, known professionally as Tobar, is a multi-faceted creative professional based in Austin, Texas. With over a decade of experience in design, he has earned a reputation for pushing creative boundaries and blending art with design to produce visually striking and thought-provoking work.
Drawing inspiration from his new home in Texas and his Afro-Latino heritage, with Neon Rodeo: Act 1 Tobar dives into themes of struggle, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. Through a modern lens, he reimagines Western iconography, creating a powerful visual narrative that speaks to the artist’s journey. This exhibition isn’t just about showcasing art; it’s about making an impact. Tobar’s work aims to inspire viewers to find their own balance in the face of life’s challenges. The Neon Rodeo series will continue to unfold, each installment delving deeper into the complexities of the artist’s experience, ultimately crafting a larger narrative that invites audiences to explore their own stories of resilience and creativity.
Tobar is recognized for his innovative approach as a Creative Director, leading significant projects and events that have left a lasting mark on the art and design communities. In addition to his studio work, Tobar has made significant contributions as a curator, particularly during his tenure as Creative Director for _OFCOLOR from 2020 to 2022, where he collaborated on and curated impactful events like Black Art WKND and Latino Art WKND. His involvement also extended to branding projects like Black Future House during SXSW, and the curation of art shows, including “I FEEL LIKE YE,” “I FEEL LIKE BEY,” and “SNEAK’ART.”
Neon Rodeo: Act 1 will be on view in the Contracommon gallery from October 1st through October 28th, 2024. The gallery is open to the public Friday through Sunday from 12–6pm for the duration of the exhibition. Private weekday viewing appointments can be scheduled at calendly.com/contracommon. For more information, appointments, or donations, please visit contracommon.org. This project has been financed in part by the City of Austin’s Elevate Grant Program.
