Frank Romero USA, b. 1941

The “nopal” (cactus) is a powerful cultural symbol in Mexican and Chicano identity representing resilience and connection to the land. Integrating acrylic, neon, and wood, Nopal merges cultural motifs with bold, modern materials. Romero’s use of neon with his painted wooden sculptures harkens back to his collection of neon signs, which he had prominently collected in his youth. This combination of folk tradition with contemporary methods, such as neon lighting, reflects his ability to bridge past and present, making his work feel timeless yet deeply tied to his Chicano roots.