Hispanic Heritage Month: Fabian Mira's "Line Art" Exhibit
- Visions
- 14 hours ago
- 3 min read
Written/Images by Alessandro Villarreal
The vibrant sounds of Viva Vallenato
Cumbia spilled out from the Broadway Gallery into Academic Hall, drawing in curious passersby —like myself. Inside, the anticipation for Fabian Mira's arrival was palpable. A crowd of students had already gathered, their excitement convincing many newcomers to stay and see what the celebration was about.
The event drawing the crowd was the
reception for Fabian Mira, a Colombian artist returning by popular demand —see last year's article— to celebrate his new exhibition, "Line Art," on Thursday, October 9. The event was a joint effort by the PCCC Cultural Affairs Department and The Passaic County Cultural & Heritage Council. Under the leadership of Assistant Director Vel Hodson, it provided a special chance for the college community to connect with the artist and his work.
Originally from Colombia, Fabian Mira began his formal art studies in Medellin before relocating to the United States. His work explores subjects ranging from spirituality and romance to nature, with his linear art style influenced by masters like Alphonse Mucha and Gustav Klimt. His goal, as stated in his biography, is to create artwork that "expresses his beliefs and enriches the human spirit".
A key part of the enthusiastic crowd
was Professor Karen Ector’s "Creative Expression" class (ECE-102). The course, designed for students planning to teach young children, explores creativity through music, dance, and visual art. Professor Ector even gave a virtual tour to students attending remotely, carrying a laptop through the gallery so those on the Zoom call wouldn't miss out. According to her, the visit's goal was for her students "to meet professional artists to gain perspective and insight about the creative process", hoping it would inspire them to feel that "they too can be creative in their classrooms."
The students put their goal into practice, asking Mira questions directly from their assignment. In response to one about his specific style of art, he explained his meticulous method: beginning with a sketch, then carefully inking the lines before applying vibrant colors. When asked what inspires him, he pointed to the diverse influences in his art, from the rich cultures of the Amazon to the spiritual depth of Christian iconography.
Once the students were finished, I asked him about one piece
in particular: a sketch of a woman’s face titled “Sadness.” I told him how I was drawn by it as soon as I entered the Gallery, it reminded me of someone important in my life. He explained his inspiration was the Virgin Mary. When I heard that, the profound sadness in the portrait now also gave me a sense of calm. Moved by my connection to the piece and by the number of students presents and interested in his work, Mira shared his gratitude. "It's good that one can be recognized by his work while being alive" he said, adding, "While it's not an art gallery in New York, we all start somewhere and being humble is what brings better opportunities in life."
The faculty’s engagement went beyond the celebration, as several spoke eagerly with Mira about purchasing his work —like I had done with the sadness painting after our brief conversation. Professor Miryam Rinkerman, head of the English Language Studies department, found a particularly personal connection. She purchased a vibrant painting filled with various flags because, as she put it, it "represented what she and her department were all about".
Throughout the evening, a total of 20 to 35
guests came and went, keeping the gallery lively. The ambiance was set by the rhythms of Viva Vallenato Cumbia, whose members wore traditional sombrero vueltiaos. The room was filled with conversations and the aroma of empanadas. The festive energy was contagious, and it wasn't long before many guests, PCCC faculty among them, were dancing to the rhythms.
For those who missed the reception, "Line Art by Fabian Mira" will remain on display in the PCCC Broadway Gallery until January 28, 2026. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Further inquiries can be directed to Vel Hodson at ahodson@pccc.edu.
