An Evening with Artist Chris "Chilly" Rodriguez

Join us for an evening with artist Chris “Chilly” Rodriguez on Thursday, September 25 at 6:30 pm! Chris is a self-taught artist with roots in graffiti and street art, and his art has been on exhibition at the Toledo Museum of Art.

Chris “Chilly” Rodriguez’s journey from a troubled youth in Toledo to a renowned artist and community leader is truly inspiring. Despite facing adversity and battling addiction, he found solace and passion in art, particularly in graffiti and street art. His story underscores the transformative power of creativity and determination.

After losing his left hand in an alcohol related injury in 2018, through sheer grit and determination, Chris embarked on the journey to recovery, confronting his addiction head-on and emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before. Armed with a newfound sense of purpose, he turned his passion for art into a driving force for positive change.

His commitment to public art not only showcases his talent but also serves as a catalyst for positive change within his community. By revitalizing rundown spaces and bringing art areas which need it the most, Chris demonstrates the profound impact that art can have on urban environments and the people who inhabit them.

Today you can not only find Chris’s work all over his Hometown but also in various cities across the country. In 2022 Chris opened The River East Gallery which stands as a testament to Chris’s vision and perseverance, providing a platform for local and regional artists and elevating the cultural landscape of Toledo. His belief in the power of art to transcend adversity and unite communities is both admirable and empowering. Through his work, he seeks to inspire others to find hope in the darkest of places and to embrace the transformative power of creativity. Chris's story serves as a reminder that with resilience and dedication, anyone can overcome their past and achieve their dreams.

No registration is required. For more information, call (419) 352-5050 or email d29vZHJlZiB8IHdjZHBsICEgb3Jn.

You may also like the following events from Wood County District Public Library:

• This Wednesday, 17th September, 10:30 am, Family Storytime at Walbridge in Walbridge
• This Wednesday, 17th September, 02:00 pm, Crafts, Games & More! A Program for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Bowling Green
• This Wednesday, 17th September, 04:00 pm, Reading Buddies with BGSU and Snack in Bowling Green

Also check out other Arts events in Bowling Green, Exhibitions in Bowling Green.