Work samples

  • The Wall
    The Wall

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 72 x 72 inches, 2018

    The Wall emerges as a depiction of societal suffering, and the profound weight of oppression experienced amidst the turmoil in my newfound home of Baltimore. The canvas captures a visceral response to the city engulfed in flames, unveiling the depths of discrimination against people of color, an intensity I had never encountered before. As chaos ensued, those with the means fled, leaving the others behind to pick up the shattered fragments. The city then fell under emergency lockdown, compounding the already overwhelming sense of isolation and despair. 

    The figures portrayed within this piece appear as if melting into a lagoon of tears–a metaphor for the heavy burden of sorrow and the relentless weight of underpaid labor. They are hunkered down, stayed by an oppressive system, struggling to survive beneath the weight of societal injustice. A profound separation between two distinct classes is evident. The working class submerged in their toils and the imposing presence of law enforcement as an unmoving concrete wall, serving as a stark representation of the systematic divisions perpetrated within our society. 

    The canvas’ genesis is in witnessing Baltimore’s turmoil firsthand; the city ablaze, revealing the depth of oppression once again faced by people of color. The genesis behind this artwork is the pervasive detachment witnessed within society, a disconnection from genuine human connections, a scarcity of both empathy and sympathy among us. It reflects our collective detachment, urging our introspection.

    The Wall serves as a mirror, reflecting the disparity and anguish experienced by marginalized communities -- seen in the painting through the removal of the figures' faces, while also calling for a reckoning. It implores viewers to confront the layers of societal constructs, empathize with the suffering depicted, and unite in dismantling the oppressive walls that perpetuate division and sorrow. 

     

  • Una Cultura del 68
    Una Cultura del 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • Hunted
    Hunted

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2019

  • Sueño
    Sueño

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2019  

About Alfonso

Baltimore City

Alfonso Fernandez is a visual artist whose evocative creations traverse the delicate intersection of culture, identity, and historical narratives. His artistic journey began with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting and Printmaking from the University of Minnesota's College of Liberal Arts in 2013, followed by a Master of Fine Arts from the Maryland Institute College of Art's prestigious LeRoy E. Hoffberger School of Painting in 2016.more

Entranced

Entranced encapsulates an artistic odyssey—a poignant reflection on the intricacies of oppression, immigration, and the multifaceted experiences of people of color. The series serves as a visual narrative, an exploration that unfolds against the backdrop of societal realities, inviting viewers to gaze upon the intersections of socio-economic systems, immigration, and cultural landscapes.

This collection emerges as a mirror reflecting the multifaceted layers of society—a canvas painted with the nuanced hues of border patrols, the poignant journeys of immigrants, and the richness of culture enshrined within those who brave the journey. It serves as an introspective exploration, a catalyst for opening eyes to the palpable struggles and triumphs experienced by individuals of diverse backgrounds.

Entranced represents a transformative journey, echoing the realities faced by marginalized communities, particularly immigrants and people of color. It seeks to unravel the complexities and tribulations embedded within their lived experiences, shedding light on the systematic challenges and societal barriers they encounter.

At its core, this series serves as a tribute to the courage and resilience of those who navigate the intricate tapestry of immigration and cultural assimilation. It unveils the beauty and struggles inherent in the cultural amalgamation that arises from diverse journeys—ones marked by hurdles, triumphs, and the unyielding spirit to forge new paths.

One pivotal piece within this series, "The Wall," resonates deeply within this narrative. It serves as a profound testament to the weight of societal oppression and labor struggles faced by immigrants and people of color based off of my experience in Baltimore during the Freddie Gray Protests. This artwork reflects the entwined complexities of societal constructs—a powerful metaphor for the societal walls that perpetuate division, encapsulating the sorrow and labor endured by marginalized communities.

Entranced invites viewers into a realm where art becomes a mirror reflecting the socio-economic systems that shape lives—a poignant reminder of the intricate dance between cultural identity and societal structures. It stands as a visual testament, urging contemplation, empathy, and an opening of eyes to the multifaceted narratives that shape the immigrant experience and the lives of people of color.

  • The Wall
    The Wall

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 72 x 72 inches, 2018

    The Wall emerges as a depiction of societal suffering, and the profound weight of oppression experienced amidst the turmoil in my newfound home of Baltimore. The canvas captures a visceral response to the city engulfed in flames, unveiling the depths of discrimination against people of color, an intensity I had never encountered before. As chaos ensued, those with the means fled, leaving the others behind to pick up the shattered fragments. The city then fell under emergency lockdown, compounding the already overwhelming sense of isolation and despair. 

    The figures portrayed within this piece appear as if melting into a lagoon of tears–a metaphor for the heavy burden of sorrow and the relentless weight of underpaid labor. They are hunkered down, stayed by an oppressive system, struggling to survive beneath the weight of societal injustice. A profound separation between two distinct classes is evident. The working class submerged in their toils and the imposing presence of law enforcement as an unmoving concrete wall, serving as a stark representation of the systematic divisions perpetrated within our society. 

    The canvas’ genesis is in witnessing Baltimore’s turmoil firsthand; the city ablaze, revealing the depth of oppression once again faced by people of color. The genesis behind this artwork is the pervasive detachment witnessed within society, a disconnection from genuine human connections, a scarcity of both empathy and sympathy among us. It reflects our collective detachment, urging our introspection.

    The Wall serves as a mirror, reflecting the disparity and anguish experienced by marginalized communities -- seen in the painting through the removal of the figures' faces, while also calling for a reckoning. It implores viewers to confront the layers of societal constructs, empathize with the suffering depicted, and unite in dismantling the oppressive walls that perpetuate division and sorrow. 

     

  • All of Those That Made It
    All of Those That Made It

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 72 x 72 inches, 2018

    "All of those that made it" stands as a somber reflection within the series "Entranced", providing a commentary on the intersection of US politics and the life-and-death consequences faced by immigrants, particularly under the lens of the Trump administration.

    The canvas features a faceless figure draped in the American flag, paradoxically symbolizing both the aspiration for the American dream and the harsh reality of its politicized decisions.

    The rows and hills of crosses, resembling a cemetery, starkly illustrate the human cost of policy decisions made callously, often driven by ignorance or indifference to the plight of immigrants from South and Central America. Each cross represents a life lost or irrevocably altered, a consequence of decisions made in the name of politics.

    The faceless figure draped in the American flag symbolizes the dehumanization of those affected by these policies, emphasizing the disconnection between the political rhetoric and the human toll. The flag, traditionally a symbol of freedom and unity, becomes a stark reminder of the contradictions within the political landscape.

    "All of those that made it" serves as a powerful visual critique, urging viewers to confront the consequences of political decisions that impact lives so profoundly. Through this piece, the intention is to prompt reflection on the need for empathy, awareness, and a reevaluation of policies that carry life-and-death implications for those seeking refuge and a better life on American soil.

     

  • Hunted
    Hunted

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2019

  • Perceiving
    Perceiving

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 62 x 62 inches, 2019

  • During the Night
    During the Night

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2019

  • Luna Llena
    Luna Llena

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 72 x 72 inches, 2018

  • Horizon
    Horizon

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 62 x 62 inches, 2019

  • Dreaming
    Dreaming

    Acrylic pigments on Bfk paper, 48 x 48 inches, 2019

  • Los Que Flotan
    Los Que Flotan

    Acrylic pigments on Bfk paper, 42 x 42 inches, 2019

  • Dream of the Border
    Dream of the Border

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 72 x 72 inches, 2019

1968: Part 1

The series 1968 serves as an evocative visual narrative, a testament to the dichotomy between the jubilation of the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico and the harrowing echoes of the tragic massacre that marred this historical event.

In this collection of watercolor on paper, I delve into the intricate tapestry of historical memory, juxtaposing the vibrant spirit of the Olympics with the somber undertones of state violence and protest. Each artwork within this series encapsulates a delicate balance between celebration and tragedy, inviting viewers to contemplate the complex intersection of sports, politics, and human rights.

The 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico were a beacon of hope, a symbol of national pride and international unity—a monumental event pulsating with athleticism, culture, and global camaraderie. However, beneath this celebratory façade lies a stark reality—the backdrop of government repression and dissent brewing within Mexican society.

The artworks in 1968 reflect this duality—capturing the dynamic energy of athletic prowess alongside the poignant remembrance of the Tlatelolco Massacre. Through the medium of watercolor, I aim to imbue each piece with a sense of fluidity and emotional depth, mirroring the fluidity of time and emotions surrounding this turbulent period in history. 1968 paintings depict the 1968 student & union movement to protest against the political oppression that was happening before and during the Mexican Olympics of 1968. 

This series serves as a visual homage to the lives lost and the voices silenced—a somber reflection on the collision between the aspirations of the Olympic Games and the stark reality of political unrest. Each brushstroke on paper bears witness to the resilience of human spirit amidst adversity, echoing the unyielding quest for justice and remembrance.

1968 prompts reflection and remembrance—a visual narrative that urges viewers to contemplate the complexities of history, politics, and human resilience. It stands as a reminder of the enduring power of art to capture the collective memory and honor the voices that history has sought to silence.

 

  • The Game of Our Lives
    The Game of Our Lives

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • You Were the Best of Us All/ Fuiste La Mejor de Todos Nosotros
    You Were the Best of Us All/ Fuiste La Mejor de Todos Nosotros

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 40 x 40 inches, 2020

  • Strength and Beauty
    Strength and Beauty

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • Una Cultura del 68
    Una Cultura del 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • Remember Us
    Remember Us

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • Birds of 86
    Birds of 86

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • Talking
    Talking

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • On the Edge of 68
    On the Edge of 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 40 x 40 inches, 2020

  • The Groundbreaking Design 1968
    The Groundbreaking Design 1968

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 22 x 30 inches, 2020

  • Diving 68
    Diving 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

1968: Part 2

The series 1968 serves as an evocative visual narrative, a testament to the dichotomy between the jubilation of the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico and the harrowing echoes of the tragic massacre that marred this historical event.

In this collection of watercolor on paper, I delve into the intricate tapestry of historical memory, juxtaposing the vibrant spirit of the Olympics with the somber undertones of state violence and protest. Each artwork within this series encapsulates a delicate balance between celebration and tragedy, inviting viewers to contemplate the complex intersection of sports, politics, and human rights.

The 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico were a beacon of hope, a symbol of national pride and international unity—a monumental event pulsating with athleticism, culture, and global camaraderie. However, beneath this celebratory façade lies a stark reality—the backdrop of government repression and dissent brewing within Mexican society.

The artworks in 1968 reflect this duality—capturing the dynamic energy of athletic prowess alongside the poignant remembrance of the Tlatelolco Massacre. Through the medium of watercolor, I aim to imbue each piece with a sense of fluidity and emotional depth, mirroring the fluidity of time and emotions surrounding this turbulent period in history. 1968 paintings depict the 1968 student & union movement to protest against the political oppression that was happening before and during the Mexican Olympics of 1968. 

This series serves as a visual homage to the lives lost and the voices silenced—a somber reflection on the collision between the aspirations of the Olympic Games and the stark reality of political unrest. Each brushstroke on paper bears witness to the resilience of human spirit amidst adversity, echoing the unyielding quest for justice and remembrance.

1968 prompts reflection and remembrance—a visual narrative that urges viewers to contemplate the complexities of history, politics, and human resilience. It stands as a reminder of the enduring power of art to capture the collective memory and honor the voices that history has sought to silence.

  • Sunset of 68
    Sunset of 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • You were the First/ Fuiste La Primera
    You were the First/ Fuiste La Primera

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • Sunday of 68
    Sunday of 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • They Spoke to Us
    They Spoke to Us

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 22 x 30 inches, 2020

  • We Played
    We Played

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • El Trompudo del 68 / Thick Lipped of 68
    El Trompudo del 68 / Thick Lipped of 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • We Thought About It/ Lo Pensamos
    We Thought About It/ Lo Pensamos

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • Mirrors
    Mirrors

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 22 x 30 inches, 2020

  • Our Games of 68
    Our Games of 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

  • Melancholy of 68
    Melancholy of 68

    Acrylic pigment on Bfk paper & oil pastel, 30 x 22 inches, 2020

Reflexiones De Una Cultura

Reflexiones de Una Cultura is a deeply personal series encapsulating the vivid memories and cultural narratives conveyed by my mother—a tribute to the enduring legacy and traditions of our Mexican heritage. These artworks serve as an introspective exploration of my identity as a Mexican immigrant, a journey delving into the complex interplay between my roots and the evolving Mexican American culture that envelops me.

In "La Emperatriz," the focal point rests on my mother during her youth—a rebellious spirit captured in familial photographs, embodying the essence of our heritage. This piece resonates with real motifs such as "La Calavera" and the deities of the Mexicah, evoking ancestral connections and heritage steeped in rich symbolism. I examine the idea of Aztlán, which emerges as a testament to the promise held within the Nahuatl language, symbolizing a bridge between my past and present.

"La Canterina" is an homage to my grandmother—a narrative woven with threads of familial anecdotes, imparting wisdom and cultural heritage. Each piece within this series echoes the vibrant tapestry of Mexican folklore, drawing inspiration from the spirited and enduring tales of our culture.

"Los Enamorados" immortalizes the enduring love of my grandparents, depicting their eternal dance beyond the constraints of mortal existence. This artwork encapsulates the essence of their connection, transcending time and space, reverberating with the music that reverberates through Mexico in "Los Musicos."

My series delves into the symphony of sounds that resonates throughout Mexico—a celebration of music that encapsulates the soul of our culture. Through these artworks, I seek to unravel the rich folklore and traditions surrounding the melodious beats and rhythms entrenched within our cultural fabric.

Reflexiones de Una Cultura is an artistic endeavor to navigate the intricacies of heritage and belonging, an odyssey aimed at reconciling the narratives of my past with the evolving landscape of Mexican American identity. Each piece serves as a visual narrative, a celebration of vibrant cultural tapestries woven with threads of memory, folklore, and the resilient spirit of our Mexican roots.

 

  • Sueño
    Sueño

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2019  

  • Ocelot
    Ocelot

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 30 x 40 inches, 2019

  • God’ Tablet
    God’ Tablet

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2019

  • Los Bailarines
    Los Bailarines

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 48 x 32 Inches,  2019

  • Guerrero
    Guerrero

    Acrylic pigments on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2019

  • Los Enamorados
    Los Enamorados

    Acrylic pigments on panel, 10 x 10 inches, 2019

  • La Emperatriz
    La Emperatriz

    Acrylic pigments on canvas and Japanese Paper, 14 x 11 inches, 2019

  • La Calavera
    La Calavera

    Acrylic pigments on canvas and Japanese Paper, 24 x 24 inches, 2019

  • Cóatl
    Cóatl

    Acrylic pigments on Bfk paper, 42 x 42 inches, 2019

  • La Catrina
    La Catrina

    Acrylic pigments on panel, 20 x 24 inches, 2019

Fathom

Fathom emerges as a transformative series, a bridge between realms, a manifestation of the intersection where the abstract meets the figurative—a transformative journey reflecting the dichotomy of being neither entirely from here nor there. It represents a significant stepping stone in my artistic evolution, marking a transition from the abstract to the figurative.

This series encapsulates a profound quest to translate the unspoken, a silent yearning to give voice to the unheard. As I navigated this transformative phase in my artistic trajectory, I felt an inherent need to articulate the narratives of those who often dwell in the shadows, whose voices remain obscured by the cacophony of societal narratives.

Fathom encapsulates a deeply personal and collective exploration—a visual narrative born from the liminal space between the abstract and the figurative. It serves as a testament to my evolving artistic language, a canvas where colors and shapes morph into tangible forms, embodying the silent echoes of those who lack a platform to articulate their stories.

As I ventured into the realm of figurative art, this series became a conduit—a means to express the suppressed voices, the marginalized perspectives, and the silent struggles of the unrepresented. Each stroke on the canvas was a deliberate attempt to weave a tapestry of narratives, a testament to the human experience often overlooked or deliberately silenced.

Fathom is more than an artistic exploration; it is a reverberation of empathy, a visual manifestation aimed at dismantling the walls of silence that surround the unheard. It represents an unyielding commitment to portraying the humanity and stories of those who exist in the peripheries—voices that deserve to be seen, heard, and understood.

In this series, I embarked on a mission to unveil the complexities of the human condition, transcending the boundaries of mere artistic expression. Fathom stands as a testament to the transformative power of art, a vessel to illuminate the voices that resonate within the depths of societal silence.

  • Come With Me, I said ,and No One Knew
    Come With Me, I said ,and No One Knew

    Mixed media and acrylic pigment on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2017

  • Forgotten Heritage
    Forgotten Heritage

    Mixed media and acrylic pigment on canvas, 48 x 48 inches, 2017

  • ​​​​​​​Goodbye From Us
    ​​​​​​​Goodbye From Us

    Mixed media and acrylic pigment on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2017

  • The Last Mural of My Memories
    The Last Mural of My Memories

    Mixed media and acrylic pigment on canvas, 80 x 90 inches, 2017

  • The Simple Things
    The Simple Things

    Mixed media and acrylic pigment on canvas, 48 x 48 inches, 2017

  • Enigma with Flowers
    Enigma with Flowers

    Mixed media and acrylic pigment on canvas, 48 x 32 inches, 2017

  • The Violent Season
    The Violent Season

    Mixed media and acrylic pigment on canvas, 62 x 62 inches, 2017

  • The Last Quetzalhuitzilin In My Mind
    The Last Quetzalhuitzilin In My Mind

    Mixed media and acrylic pigment on canvas, 72 x 72 inches, 2017

We Were Ones

We Were Ones is an artistic documentation born from the tumultuous events surrounding Freddie Gray, echoing the narrative of a city in upheaval during the uprising. Each painting serves as a poignant chronicle of the series of events that unfolded, capturing the destruction and resilience of a community grappling with systemic injustices, including the presence of a unique Intifada "shaking off" of the city baltimore. 

In "Somewhere Deep in My Soul," the body of Freddie Gray becomes a focal point, symbolizing the rough ride he endured. The series, inspired by the streets of Baltimore, utilizes mixed media to vividly portray the visceral impact of these events on the community.

"Only Once" delves into the displacement and marginalization experienced by people of color in Baltimore for an extended period. The body covered by a sheet, stained and dirtied, represents those who participated in the uprising, standing against violence inflicted upon their bodies.

As a collective of people of color, We Were Ones emerges as a voice against the systemic violence and deprivation of rights experienced during a tumultuous period that included incidents like Fargo, and the shooting of POC individuals such as Michael Brown and Philando Castile.

"The Night Rounds" captures the pinnacle of the uprising with a vivid portrayal of the march down North Avenue, embodying the collective strength and determination of the community. "We Both Lost" juxtaposes the two sides or neighborhoods of Baltimore, specifically Hampden and Greenmount, illustrating the shared losses experienced.

In this project, art becomes a vehicle for remembrance and resistance, echoing the spirit of "A Beautiful Ghetto" by Devin Allen. We Were Ones seeks to immortalize the stories, struggles, and resilience of a community united against systemic oppression, standing as a testament to the strength found within shared experiences and collective resistance

  • Somewhere Deep in My Soul
    Somewhere Deep in My Soul

    Oil paint, marble dust, black sand, on panel, 48 x 33 inches, 2016

  • Only Once
    Only Once

    Oil paint, marble dust, black sand, rice paper, on panel, 40 x 40 inches, 2016

  • If You Forget Me
    If You Forget Me

    Oil paint, marble dust, black sand, on canvas, 48 x 33 inches, 2016

  • Think of Me
    Think of Me

    Oil paint, marble dust, black sand, on canvas, 48 x 33 inches, 2016

  • A Strange World
    A Strange World

    Oil paint, marble dust, black sand, rice paper, on panel on canvas, 40 x 30 inches, 2016

  • The Night-Rounds
    The Night-Rounds

    Oil paint, marble dust, black sand, on canvas, 48 x 33 inches, 2016

  • Don’t Go Far Off
    Don’t Go Far Off

    Oil paint, marble dust, rice paper, black sand, on panel on canvas, 32 x 24 inches, 2016

  • We Both Lost
    We Both Lost

    Oil paint, marble dust, rice paper, black sand, on canvas, 48 x 33 inches, 2016

Memories that Remember Us

Memories that Remember Us is a deeply personal exploration centered around the multifaceted experiences tied to Freddie Gray's narrative, with a more focused lens on my own journey. It delves into self-exploration, the significance of materials, and a newfound connection to indigenous roots catalyzed by a significant life event.

Initiated by my mother sharing with me our indigenous roots, the project gained material depth when volcanic sand from Popocatépetl temple, sent by my grandmother, became a crucial element. These materials serve as vessels for summoning memories, intertwining personal history and cultural heritage within each stroke.

In "Misterio," a nostalgic rendering of a childhood fish becomes a poignant metaphor. Initially drawn as a beautiful fish or a house for my family, the memory resurfaces, urging a reevaluation of artistic purpose. This self-reflection unfolds as an exploration of materials, heritage, and personal background.

"Los Recuerdos que se Acuerdan de Nosotros" encapsulates the essence of the series, featuring an abstracted image of being struck by a car—a pivotal moment that metaphorically parallels being hung up by life and then abruptly hit. This impactful instance serves as a turning point, signaling the inception of my figurative work and a reckoning with the profound beauty of skin.

Baltimore, a new environment, provided a transformative backdrop. Here, the majority being people of color offered a nuanced perspective, where I felt seen not through just the white gaze but through genuine curiosity. This shift in perception mirrored Freddie Gray's echoes, reminiscent of the car’s impact on my body.

 

  • Los Recuerdos que se Acuerdan de Nosotros
    Los Recuerdos que se Acuerdan de Nosotros

    Oil paint, black sand, marble dust, 7 x 6 feet, 2016

  • La Calle
    La Calle

    Oil paint, black sand, marble dust, color pigments, 76 x 56 inches, 2016

  • La Vida Sencilla
    La Vida Sencilla

    Acrylic paint, black sand, marble dust, ink, fabric collage, house paint, 48 x 48 inches, 2016

  • Dos Cuerpos
    Dos Cuerpos

    Acrylic paint, auto body paint, black sand, Diptych: 104 inches, 2016

  • Bajo tu Clara Sombra
    Bajo tu Clara Sombra

    Oil paint, black sand, marble dust, fabrics collage,12 x 12 feet, 2016

  • Misterio
    Misterio

    Oil paint, black sand, marble dust, fabric collage,15 x 22 inches, 2016

  • Frente Al Mar Durante El Otoño
    Frente Al Mar Durante El Otoño

    Acrylic paint, ink, fabric, collage, 33 x 48 inches, 2016

  • Entre el ir y venir
    Entre el ir y venir

    Pigment, black sand, marble dust, 84 x 84 inches, 2016

Moments Away

Moments Away explores a chapter marked by the evolving health of my grandmother, capturing memories in black and white and primary colors that resonate with the emotional depth of this period in my life. The series delves into my longing to be closer to family during my grandmother's illness, a profound desire underscored by the thousands of miles separating me in Baltimore from my Mexican home—a place unvisited since childhood.

The title of the series, Moments Away, expresses my wish for my grandmother to be physically close once more, to embrace me as she did in my childhood. The sentiment of physical distance becomes palpable, a sentiment that permeates the series.

"Las Paredes" (The Walls) delves into memories of walls made of clay on my grandmother's farm, symbolizing a retreat from overwhelming emotions. "El Muro de los Lamentos" (The Wall of Lamentations) represents a storm of emotions, echoing my memories on my grandmother's farm.

"Relámpago en Reposo" captures a moment where my grandparents sought to impart knowledge of our native roots, lamenting the displacement and erasure of their proud heritage. The series bears witness to my reflections on the cultural transitions and losses experienced by my family.

Moments Away encapsulates an emotional journey, exploring themes of distance, longing, and the complex interplay of memory and heritage. In a visual dialogue, the series invites viewers to reflect on the universal aspects of human experience, the passage of time, and the deep connections that endure even when physical distances seem insurmountable.

  • Los que nos Visitan
    Los que nos Visitan

    Oil paint, Japanese ink, rice paper, natural pigments, on panel, 28 x 28 inches, 2016

  • ​​​​​​​El Muro de los Lamentos
    ​​​​​​​El Muro de los Lamentos

    Oil paint, Japanese ink, rice paper, natural pigments, on panel, 18 x 23 inches, 2016

  • Relámpago en Reposo
    Relámpago en Reposo

    Oil paint, Japanese ink, rice paper, natural pigments, on panel, 12 x 12 inches, 2016

  • Las Paredes
    Las Paredes

    Oil paint, Japanese ink, rice paper, natural pigments, on panel, 12 x 12 inches, 2016

  • El Cántaro Roto
    El Cántaro Roto

    Oil paint, Japanese ink, rice paper, natural pigments, on panel, 18 x 23 inches, 2016 

  • El Pozo
    El Pozo

    Oil paint, Japanese ink, rice paper, natural pigments, on panel, 12 x 12 inches, 2016

The Point in Space

The Point in Space unfolds as an exploration into materiality and the labor inherent in my act of painting, all conveyed through a series of panel artworks. This series encompasses a period of my artistic evolution where I engaged in digging and excavating paintings, seeking to reveal the hidden artifacts within the layers of pigment and texture. Each panel serves as a tableau, capturing the essence of a moment when I began to comprehend the transformative potential of painting. The exploration of materials and surfaces becomes a tactile journey, uncovering the abstract and the representation of bodies in space through the act of painting itself.

The title of the series, The Point in Space, extends beyond mere abstraction, delving into the relationships within family, memories, and cultural connections. Simplicity and abstraction become elemental in the series, echoing the nuanced dynamics of familial relationships and my exploration of self-identity juxtaposed against the backdrop of the present.

My project extends its gaze to global events in places like Palestine, Gaza, and Ukraine. It becomes a meditation on the inevitability of events and the urgent question of how to halt the cycle of violence and suffering. The series prompts contemplation on the legacies we leave behind, urging viewers to consider the impact of their actions on the world.

The Point in Space serves as a visual discourse on the multifaceted aspects of human existence, encapsulating my personal reflections, familial connections, and the broader socio-political landscape. The project invites viewers to navigate through layers of meaning, prompting a thoughtful exploration of my artistic journey and the resonances it holds within the collective human experience.

  • Urban Crops
    Urban Crops

    Acrylic pigment on panel, 33 x 48 inches, 2015

  • Rhythm in a Lost Space 
    Rhythm in a Lost Space 

    Acrylic pigment on panel, 33 x 48 inches, 2015

  • Shadows on the Wall 
    Shadows on the Wall 

    Acrylic pigment on panel, 33 x 48 inches, 2015

  • Metro
    Metro

    Acrylic pigment on panel, 33 x 48 inches, 2015

  • Decimation
    Decimation

    Acrylic pigment on panel, 40 x 40 inches, 2015