UB Launches Three Day Bio Art Program with Mexican Artist Rodrigo Murillo

Today, the University of Belize launched a three-day Bio Art program, featuring Mexican artist Rodrigo Murillo. During the opening lecture, Murillo shared his journey and explained how he transforms discarded trash into powerful works of art. Tomorrow, he will lead a workshop with UB students to create a sculpture titled “The Black Jaguar”. The piece will be unveiled on the final day and permanently displayed on campus. We spoke with Murillo about his inspiration and his experience lecturing in Belize for the first time.

 

Zenida Lanza, Reporting

Plastic is everywhere in our environment, and today at the University of Belize, Mexican artist Rodrigo Murillo challenged students and guests to confront that reality. In his lecture, “The Civilization of Excess, or the Excess of Civilization,” Murillo explored the impact of plastic waste and how it can be reimagined through art. The event marked the start of a three-day program promoting environmental awareness, with participants from UB environmental science students, and ITVET representatives.

 

Rodrigo Murillo, Visual Artist

“How can we change our perspectives in our minds to change a little bit this disposable culture we have, thinking that we can use things for one second and then forget about them, and then never think about them again. But I think that has to change, and that’s why I’m here today speaking through my art and through the greater spirit through myself and through my love of nature.”

 

In an era where sustainability is more urgent than ever, Murillo is transforming how we view material waste. He explains that art is about making a connection with something we love, in his case, nature, and combining it with what we often choose to ignore.

 

Rodrigo Murillo

“I think modern day human has become too much comfortable, too much commodified, like we use products all the time and we have to step outside that and become a little wilder in the sense of being in touch again with nature and species and protect the living universe because it’s dying because of all our consumption.”

 

He also shared his experience of being a first-time lecturer in Belize, noting the country’s unique mix of cultures and the vibrant energy he felt among the students.

 

Rodrigo Murillo

“I feel very excited because I can feel an energy which is very mixed between races and I love that because it’s like the separation. What separates us is not something about our outside faces or colors. It’s much more about the way we think and the way we approach each other as humans. I would like to thank everyone, God, my mom, my family, everyone that is present today who is open to receive this message, to enjoy art, and also to have fun.”

 

The school expresses that there is much to learn from Mr. Murillo, as he takes something that we describe as trash and makes it functional and lucrative. On the third day, they will unveil the completed “Black Jaguar” sculptor, which will remain as a permanent installation on UB’s Belmopan campus. Reporting for News Five, I’m Zenida Lanza.