Alex Rios Fernández

“In his hands lay the future of Puerto Rican woodcraft, which will only excel and reach its maximum expression”
– Rosabel Suarez, professional woodcarver

 

The Ritz Carlton and arte_FITS.Foundation are proud to have presented the works of Puerto Rican artist and woodcarver, Alex Rios Fernandez. The exhibition was held at the Library of Ritz Carlton Reserve from December 26, 2014 to January 2015.

Alex Rios Fernández is an internationally recognized Puerto Rican artist who is known for his handcrafted woodcarvings of birds. Rios began carving at the age of 12 and throughout his career, has won many honors and awards. Being under the tutelage of many professional woodcarvers such as Rosabel Suárez and Eduardo Gonzalez, Rios has been able to progress in the art and woodcarving worlds quite quickly.

For each artwork the artist does an expansive biological and literate study of his subjects; usually Puerto Rican birds; collects wood from various parts of the island to enhance the miniature environments he proposes to create, and finally polishes a wooden base to perfection where the artworks will stand.

 

Curriculum Vitae

1996 Began carving at the age of 12 under the tutelage of wood carving artist, Rosabel Suarez

2001 Received recognition of “Young Artisan of the Year” at the Bacardi Fair; Rios was 17 years old.

2002 Selected as one of the three Puerto Rican artisans whose work decorated the Christmas tree in  the White House, Washington D.C.

2003 Began taking lessons from renowned bird carver, Sue Kraft, who until this day is still his mentor.

2005 Won second and third place and first honorable mention within his category at the Ward World Championships of bird carving.

2010 Represented Puerto Rico at the International Fair of Chile and was appointed King of the Fair.

2012 Returned to the Ward World Championships, earning first place within his category as well as first place and Best in Show in his division.

Text written by Mimi Beale
Edited for Blog by Karina del Mar