Carlos Rolón, a Chicago-born artist of Puerto Rican descent, has long been recognized for his work that examines themes of cultural identity, inclusion, and aspiration. The works included in Hilos de Resurgimiento, created from repurposed tarps, serve as a poignant reflection of Puerto Rican resilience in the aftermath of natural disasters. At the heart of Rolón’s tarp works is a deep connection to his cultural heritage and a commitment to telling the stories of those who have been marginalized or overlooked. These large-scale creations transform utilitarian materials into evocative symbols of endurance, survival, and cultural pride, merging art with activism to honor the communities from which they originate.

Rolón’s creative process beings with the tarps themselves, which are sent to him directly from Puerto Rico bearing the physical scars of their original use. Once the tarps arrive, Rolón embarks on an extensive and meticulous process of cleaning, removing layers of dirt, debris, and any remnants of their former function as makeshift roofs in hurricane-stricken communities. This initial stage of cleaning is not merely a physical act but also a symbolic one, as it represents a kind of healing and restoration for the artist. Yet, rather than erasing the tarps’ history, Rolón preserves their inherent imperfections—faded patches, holes, and scratches—allowing these traces of wear to remain visible as a testament to the hardships faced by Puerto Rican families.

Left: Carlos Rolón (American, b. 1970), Te Necesito (estudio), 2024, fabric, handmade applique on repurposed tarpaulin, 65 × 48 in. Commissioned by the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. © Carlos Rolón, Rolón Studio, LLC.

Right: Carlos Rolón (American, b. 1970), Ay Puñeta (Oh Damn), 2024, fabric, fabric, printed canvas, and embroidery on repurposed tarpaulin, 43 × 37 in. Commissioned by the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. © Carlos Rolón, Rolón Studio, LLC.

Once his canvases are prepared Rolón begins the laborious process of rebuilding what was removed, layer by layer. He incorporates intricate stitching, appliques, and beautifully rendered words into the tarps: Sigue palante (keep going), cógelo suave (take it easy), te necesito (I need you).  Layering in elements that reflect both the cultural heritage and personal narratives of the communities they represent serves as an act of reconstruction honoring the tarps’ past while envisioning a hopeful future.

Rolón’s series bring island’s complex history as a U.S. territory into sharp focus. The works prompt viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about power, privilege, and colonialism, reflecting on the ways in which these forces have shaped the lives of Puerto Rican citizens. By preserving the tarps’ scars and incorporating them into his art, Rolón challenges the viewer to see beauty in resilience and to acknowledge the ongoing struggles faced by communities often ignored in broader socio-political contexts.

Hilos de Resurgimiento showcases Rolón’s collaboration with PRoTechos, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing sustainable roofing solutions to Puerto Ricans impacted by climate disaster. This partnership adds another layer of meaning to Rolón’s work, emphasizing his commitment to activism and community engagement, and contributes directly to efforts aimed at rebuilding communities and empowering individuals. The integration of art and activism in Rolón’s practice underscores the potential of creative work to effect real-world change.

Carlos Rolón (American, b. 1970), Sigue Palante (Keep Going) (detail), 2024, handmade fabric and applique repurposed tarpaulin, 63 × 96 in. Commissioned by the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. © Carlos Rolón, Rolón Studio, LLC.

Ultimately, Carlos Rolón’s tarp works are a testament to the power of art as a tool for social commentary and healing. They remind us that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places and that the scars of hardship can be transformed into symbols of hope and resilience. Through his work, Rolón gives voice to the voiceless and shines a light on the ongoing fight for equity and representation. His tarp works are a celebration—a visual affirmation of survival, pride, and the unbreakable ties that bind a community to its heritage.

Hilos de Resurgimiento is presented in both English and Spanish and is the first fully bi-lingual exhibition at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The exhibition is on view now through March 2025 in the Davis Lab gallery. 

Image Credits:

Installation views of Threads of Resurgence in the Damon C. and Kay D. Davis Lab, August 23, 2024–March 30, 2025. Artworks © Carlos Rolón, Rolón Studio, LLC.   

Carlos Rolón (American, b. 1970), Paradise, 2024, fabric, handmade applique and embroidery on repurposed tarpaulin, 60 × 60 in. Commissioned by the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. © Carlos Rolón, Rolón Studio, LLC.