Art major Javier Flores has just graduated, but his work is already part of a national exhibit.

Art major Javier Flores’ painting “Decay and Renewal” is on exhibit at the Denver Botanic Gardens through Nov. 30

Flores’ paintings, along with those of four other Metro State students, are being featured at the Denver Botanic Gardens along with four nationally recognized artists, including Metro State’s own Carlos Fresquez. "Urban Nature," the Gardens' 2008 signature exhibition, explores the intersection of nature and urban culture. The exhibit runs through Nov. 30.

“It’s an awesome opportunity,” says Flores, who learned about the opportunity from Fresquez, an assistant professor of art.

Fresquez received the call for entries and passed it along to fellow teachers in the Art department. “We encouraged the students to apply.”

The exhibit features paintings from more than a dozen street-style artists and internationally recognized artists including Lady Pink, Mac and Siloette. New York City activist Lady Pink has transitioned from painting subway trains in the 70s and 80s to creating grand-scale murals throughout New York City and lecturing at universities across the country. Phoenix-based Mac draws inspiration from the Mexican and Chicano culture of the American Southwest. Siloette, who lives in Los Angeles, is recognized mainly for her feminine subject matter, unique flowing style and organic ingredients.

The paintings are strategically placed, says Flores. “They want the plants to grow up and around the artwork.”

The other Metro State students whose works are featured include Sophie Fernandez, Ian Rumley, Todd Robinson and Elisabeth Bunker. For more information about the exhibit, visit http://www.botanicgardens.org/.