Rodríguez's final series of paintings explored the scientific origins of gold, as well as the history of gold in art and society. In order to conduct research for the series, the artist sought and was awarded a Smithsonian Artist Research Fellowship (SARF), which facilitated travel to and study within the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. The resulting works address economics, politics, and corruption. At the same time, Rodríguez suggested that gold lust is something that unifies humanity, regardless of nationality, class, or party affiliation. Furthermore, he posited that visual art is the new gold, offering opportunity for investment, and in turn conferring status upon the owner.