TAMPA – Mario Javier Perez, an instructor in Lutheran Services Florida’s Integration Assistance Services program, is one of the featured artists in the “Colors of Culture” exhibition at the Ana G. Mendez University System Tampa Bay Campus.

“Colors of Culture” will be on display until March 19. Visitors may view the works during the following hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The Tampa Bay Campus is located at 3655 W. Waters Ave. in the Fountain Oaks Plaza in Tampa.

Colors of Culture features more than 30 creations from Cuban, Peruvian and Puerto Rican artists who now reside in the Tampa Bay area.

“Art appreciation is a hallmark in the educational development of our society,” said Jose F. Mendez, President of the Ana G. Mendez University System. “Ana G. Mendez University System showcases this exhibit as it portrays a rich cultural diversity and passion for our Latin American roots.”

Perez studied art in Cuba, where he was both an artist and an art teacher. He has participated in many exhibitions throughout Cuba and the United States, and his works have been displayed in such locations as the Delavan Art Gallery, Syracuse Technology Garden and the Center for New Americans. His works have also been featured in the 2007 Stone Canoe Journal of Arts, Ideas from Upstate New York, and The Syracuse Post-Standard.

As an artist, Perez says he considers himself an “emotionalist.” Everything that is formed in his works is a visual expression of his ideas and emotions. He refers to his paintings as “poetic images” or “visual metaphors.” He believes art is one of the most effective tools in the edification of human values and society.