I do wish to comment and clarify some inaccurate points mentioned within this article, which refer to the Center’s All Media Juried Biennial, in which Mr. Aguilar’s work is included.

First, as to the “incongruent” quality of the show– clearly this is a survey exhibition of work by outstanding talent from throughout the state of Florida, chosen by juror, Nina Arias. It is most certainly NOT intended to be a thematic show, with a focal point of reference around which works would be selected.

Secondly I fail to see how the works can be described as “unlit!” Every work has been sufficiently lit by a team of preparators who are among the best in South Florida, (they install and light shows at MOCA, MoA Ft. Lauderdale, the Bass Museum and other contemporary art institutions in South Florida.)

You have made some interesting assertions on the history “outsider” and “self-taught” artists within the larger framework of fine art.

There are a number of masterful artists whose work developed without the “benefit” of formal training…among them Henry Darger, Francis, Bacon, Joseph Cornell, Vincent van Gogh and Johannes Vermeer (whose art education is uncertain)–to name but a few. Not all have been “dismissed” by scholars and art historians during their lifetimes. All but one of the artists I mention (Henry Darger)achieved varying degrees of acclaim (if not sales)during their careers.

Only time will reveal the true potential of Mr. Aguilar’s work. Should he remain as committed as he now his to his work, I anticipate he has the potential to develop into a highly respected painter.

Jane Hart
Curator of Exhibition
Art and Culture Center of Hollywood