Rolando Diaz, well-known artist and 1979 graduate of Abilene Christian University, will be featured in the documentary Recapturing Cuba: An Artist's Journey. The 30-minute documentary, chronicling Diaz's beginnings, will air on KERA-TV (Channel 13) Wednesday, May 28 at 8:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. and Saturday, May 31 at 3:30 a.m.
Diaz was born in Havana to a Cuban businessman who brought his family to the United States to flee the oppressive Communist regime. Diaz has established himself as a painter and performance artist who embraces his Cuban background to create unique oil paintings.
"It is heartwarming to know that Rolando Diaz has been recognized for his great artistic ability after arriving in this country many years ago as a Cuban refugee and striving diligently to obtain his college degree at ACU and then go on to bless the lives of countless people through his art," said Dr. Robert Hunter, senior vice president emeritus at ACU. "His touching story about his return to Cuba was uplifting and inspiring, as well as being beautifully produced. All of us who have watched Rolando grow and develop his artistic outreach are tremendously proud of him."
In 2007, Diaz received ACU's Distinguished Alumni Citation and recently returned to campus to perform during Chapel. He painted with live accompaniment by gospel singers in a performance entitled The Afro-Cuban Cultural Experience. The artwork created was auctioned for funds to benefit ACU Spring Break Campaigns.
In June, Diaz will perform live at the The Plaza in Victory Park Dallas during the screening of the documentary.
If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact ACU's Public Relations Office or call (325) 674-2696.
