Presidential Inauguration Coverage
Dallas Artist Selected to Paint for President George W. Bush
Dallas Artist, Eli Rodriguez Jr. was one of the highlights at the 2001 Hispanic Presidential Inaugural Gala in Washington D.C. On January 6, 2001 Eli received a call from the Hispanic Presidential Gala which was sanctioned by the 2001 Presidential Inaugural Committee. They commissioned Eli to paint two paintings measuring 42"x54". One was to be presented to President Bush and the other to Vice President Cheney at the Hispanic Presidential Inaugural Gala on January 19. The paintings depict Eli's signature skies over America's Mountains. A mixed media of acrylic and watercolor on paper, the bold colors and energy are a definite extension of the artist's Latin culture and his fondness of the Texas landscapes. Also commissioned were three pieces measuring 34"x26" that were presented to dignitaries Al Gonzales - General Council to the President, Mel Martinez - Secretary of HUD, and Jeannie Phillips - Executive Director of the Presidential Inaugural Committee.
Eli has been painting since he was a child. He has maintained it as a hobby until 1997 at which time he left a career in accounting to devote all of his time to his art. Artwanted.com picked one of Eli's works from 1800 paintings by various artists to be included on their company's 2000 brochure. Additianally, the North Texas Family Support Conference based in Dallas used one of Eli's works on their 2000 Conference poster and program. Eli has received accolades of praise, including that which he received at the 2001 Hispanic Presidential Inaugural Gala.
Eli's work is currently exhibited in Gallery 'G' Fine Art in Alexandria, VA and Redwing Fine Art Gallery in Yarmouthport, MA. Eli's 2001 plans include negotiating with additional galleries in the Texas area who are interested in carrying his work.
