Resident Artists

Rigo Peralta

Painter Rigo Peralta was born and raised in the Dominican Republic - a country rich with lush, rolling hills and rushing rivers.

Rigo’s early exposure to the beauty of the natural world helped stimulate his artistic drive. He studied painting at the National Academy of Fine Arts in Santiago, Dominican Republic, and then became a full-time art instructor at one of the area elementary schools.

In 1989, Rigo moved from the Dominican Republic to New York City. While in New York, he studied at the Art Students League of New York, and he also served as the art director of the Casa de la Cultura Dominicana from 2002 through 2003.

Like the landscapes of his homeland, Rigo’s paintings explode with color and detail. His Mechanical Series, which is marked by bold hues, strong shapes and powerful images, references the ongoing economic and cultural impact of automation.

Rigo’s work has been featured in numerous exhibitions in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York, including shows at Monsoon Gallery in Bethlehem and the North Light Loft in Allentown. During his career he has received many honors for his art. In 2003 he was the first Dominican artist invited by the President of the United States to visit the White House, and in 2008 Dominican Republic President Dr. Leonel Fernandez Renya presented him with the National Dominican Prize, an honor bestowed on individuals who have helped further Dominican arts and culture in other nations.

Artist Statement

“Since becoming part of the Banana Factory three years ago I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with other resident artists, but the most important issue for me has been the ability to give back to the community and the kids that so much thrive with art. My art has developed and evolved in many ways, which has helped me grow as an artist and a person.”

-Rigo Peralta