Readymades by Radames

Tropical Readymade, 2018

Radames "Juni" Figueroa is a native of Puerto Rico and is based out of the city of San Juan, a burgeoning art city of the island. His works of art are a modern take on readymades and found objects. These found objects are instantly relatable as they are shared elements and symbols of daily life for many, and speak of the consumption of American products by island people who share in the same enjoyment of sports and drinking. At the core of Figueroa's work is the theme of life in an ongoing paradise on a tropical island. His work is allegorical in regards to party life and too much of a good thing. The assemblage of empty beer and liquor bottles is telling of the ups and downs of partying, leisure, and the eventual return to reality and the discarded reminders. Basketballs and soccer balls all seem to be an abundant diversion to tropical life, but what is most attractive about Figueroa's artwork is the vibrant colors that subconsciously speak of hope and optimism. Though they are discarded the brightly colored balls have been rescued and given a new life in a tropical paradise. Ultimately, Figueroa's work is a satirical display of the vice and exploitation that continues in a tropical paradise that has been challenged by politics and natural disasters in recent years. It is interesting to note that the settings and designs are quite contemporary and akin to current trends and stylings.

Installation View

Tropical Readymade, ca. 2015

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