As a first generation Mexican-American, my culture and heritage has directly influenced me to use my artistic ability as a mediator by exposing some hardships that many north and central immigrants face. Somos is body of work that pays homage to immigrants, many of whom have sacrificed everything for their families to have an opportunity at achieving the American Dream. The definition of the American Dream has evolved and differs from person to person, but for myself and many others, the goal remains – build a legacy. By bearing fruits in unfavorable conditions, we (“first-gens”) are tasked with reaping those fruits to then bear more. 

 

Through the use of personal family images, home-videos, and other source materials, I intend to give my audience a different perspective of who we are as a people. My goal to is to sensitize viewers to immigrants in a different light with traditional painting methods. I also incorporate wall compound, fabric, and other non-traditional painting mediums into my work.  As a medium, the materials act as a metaphoric wall, representing other’s perceptions of Spanish-speaking immigrants, and thus bringing a different element into painting.

 

In Catholicism, sainthood is what we aim for because it’s an example of how humans have dedicated their lives to serving others. In my paintings, the halos are used to bring out the virtuousness in ordinary actions by ordinary people. Additionally, using the halos to elevate a person’s story and their sacrifices made contributes the sensitization of immigrants as they are often victims of prejudices and biases.