Cuba-Rican street artist Sofia Maldonado has come a long way since her days drawing colorful murals in skateparks and abandoned swimming pools. The 27-year-old’s new solo show at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo in Puerto Rico rolled in late last month, and is sure to leave a lasting impression with Maldonado's use of vivid colors and voluptuous female characters, as well as providing a fresh take on social realities. Fever: Tropical Nostalgia and Urban Anxieties in Sofia Maldonado will display the artist’s urban art creations inspired by her memories of the Caribbean landscape and oceans. Maldonado reaches deep into her imagination, far beyond the influence of the Caribbean, as her pieces also feature a hybrid of Latina identities, women’s fashions, street sensibilities, and a hint of skate culture.

 "She's still in her 20s — totally rad, came out of skateboarding, does amazing work on the streets where she commits a lot of energy, and has a very prestigious gallery career going as well. It's been fun to work with her," says curator Carlo McCormick.

The show is set up in five different sections, with each one highlighting various themes of Maldonado’s murals — skate, urban art, women, products and tropical nostalgia. Maldonado's exhibition is currently showcased at the Julio Rosado del Valle Room at the MAC in Santurce, Puerto Rico, and will remain open through fall 2012.

Written by Niki Valencia