1202 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85013
602–285–7500

Instructor's Artwork on Display in United Arab Emirates

by: Christy Skeen

Roman Reyes, Phoenix College Department Chair of Art, Photography, Music and Anthropology, is well known for his moving artistic creations, but it is an image of peace that he hopes will stir the emotions of an international audience. He recently presented a portion of his mural entitled: "The Dream Is Possible" during a reception at Oaxaca Restaurant on West Van Buren. The event was attended by a number of friends, family and other special guests.

Reyes is currently in the United Arab Emirates this month participating in the Education Without Boarders Conference. At the behest of the Abu Dhabi Men’s College – Higher Colleges of Technology and by express invitation of His Highness Sheik Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Reyes was asked to design and coordinate a peace mural. The artwork was a joint venture between art students from Phoenix College and selected students from UAE. Phoenix College students involved in the project included Anthony Garcia, Jann Miller and Stranton Harrison. Also, Ricardo Hermosillo from the Universidad de Noroeste in Hermosillo, Mexico also worked with Reyes and his crew on the project.

Portions of the mural were painted in the U.S. and transported to the site of the conference, where Reyes continues to paint live images during the conference with assistance from selected art students of the Higher Colleges of Technology. More than 600 students from over 75 nations are attending the conference.

"Everywhere I have traveled I find that people are the same," said Reyes. "They all care deeply for their families, have dreams and aspirations for their children than they had, and wish to live in a safe and peaceful world. These images are powerful reminders of that truth. If we can change the perceptions of one person who views this mural then maybe we can help the cause of peace. In the end, that’s all that matters."

Reyes was also responsible for the conception, design, planning and painting of another mural commemoration that marks the one-year anniversary of the Sept. 11th tragedy, which adorns a 90-foot wall at Phoenix College. He also worked with the cast, film and special effects crew of the Hollywood Blockbuster, Lord of the Rings.