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When artist Christian Alvarado reflected on the past two very transformative years in his life, he discovered his thoughts contained two profound issues facing his generation: social justice and the environment. Although, we think of these issues as mutually exclusive he realized they both played a critical role in a third issue being discussed with more frequency than ever, the topic of mental health. His exploration of all three of these issues can be seen through his work on display at the Fairfield University Bookstore in an exhibit entitled Zen Musings.

A Georgetown University graduate (C' 21), Christian's subject matter deals with social justice, environmentalism, and mental health. Focusing on color and form to provide new perspectives on how social justice and our environment play profound roles in our mental health, Christian's art is driven by his desire to bring about unity and inner peace.

His creative process reflects a philosophy that is centered around interconnectedness using dynamic shapes and lines that overlap and intersect. "I believe we can recognize our differences as opportunities to grow stronger, rather than use these differences to divides us," says Alvarado.

He feels a sense of stewardship towards the natural world because of how much he appreciates it while amongst its beauty, whether it's walking meditatively along the Fairfield shoreline or when running through the wooded trails of Lake Mohegan. "It’s those simple connections with nature

that have a positive affect on our mental wellness, by restoring serotonin levels, giving us respite to feel rejuvenated," states Christian. 

The young artist feels natural spaces are a great metaphor for inclusivity – "One must understand how to take in account each species within these natural spaces for the ecosystem to flourish – like how we can flourish as a society by considering all groups of people."

His primary mediums include acrylic and pastel oils on canvas, ink on paper, and Adobe Illustrator for digital art. At Georgetown, Christian majored in Studio Art as a scholar athlete on the nationally ranked cross-country team including championship awards at the Big East and Regional levels. Named by the Big East as Men's Cross Country Athlete of the week during his sophomore season, he also competed in distance events on Georgetown's track team.

Christian's work has been displayed at the Spagnuolo Gallery at Georgetown University, and at Candlewood Market, Fairfield, CT. When not at his easel Christian can be found working as distance coach for Fairfield Prep's cross-country and track teams where he also began his running journey. In addition to running, his other passions include writing songs, and cooking up spicy kale.

Zen Musings is on display at the Fairfield University Bookstore (1499 Post Road, Fairfield, CT) from June 1 through the 30th. Christian can be found on Instagram: @ca.lvarado where he posts daily stories about his work and reflections on living a better life.