TALLAHASSEE, FL – In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15), Secretary of State Glenda E. Hood announces an exhibition of two large-scale murals created by Miami-based, Cuban-American artist Xavier Cortada. Organized by the Division of Cultural Affairs, this exhibition is part of a statewide celebration initiated by Governor Jeb Bush to commemorate five centuries of Hispanic history, culture, and prosperity in Florida. Governor Bush will officially unveil the murals on Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 2:30 p.m.
"The Department of State is delighted to partner with the Governor’s office to promote the special celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month to all Floridians,” said Secretary Hood. "Xavier Cortada is a wonderfully talented artist and we are so fortunate to have the opportunity to exhibit his colorful interpretations of Florida’s unique Hispanic heritage.”
Well-known for his collaborative public artwork, Xavier Cortada has previously completed commissions for the White House, the World Bank, and numerous other organizations. For this project, he worked solo to create two large murals, each measuring 57” x 118,” which illustrate Florida’s unique Hispanic heritage. One of the murals portrays the first encounter between Ponce de Leon and Florida’s indigenous residents against the backdrop of a beach and mangroves. "The mangroves’ walking feet serve as a metaphor for the growth and evolution of the state,” states Cortada. The other mural captures the journey many others have made since Ponce de Leon named the state La Florida.
Xavier Cortada’s murals will be on display at the Plaza Level of the State Capitol Building through October 31. For more information about Xavier Cortada, visit www.cortada.com.For further information about the Capitol Complex Exhibition Program, contact Sandy Shaughnessy at the Division of Cultural Affairs at 850/245-6480 or visit: www.florida-arts.org.
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