Frustaciones de una Centroamericana Painting

Frustaciones De Una Centroamericana is in response to the culminated microaggressions and frustration received through white institutions. The lack of awareness, knowledge, and ignorance peppered throughout the critiquing of culture related work, made me realize that no amount of education can exclude people with respected degrees from perpetuating ignorance and racism. Riddled with meaning and symbolism, each object is meticulously placed throughout the painting. Beginning with the post-it note that says, “This is not Chicano art,” due to my work constantly referred to as Chicano art, after I had repeatedly stated that I was not Mexican American. To more subtle hints of paying homage to those that have paved the way so that I can be an artist, for instance the inclusion of a Kerry James Marshall book, and Rigoberta Menchú’s autobiography. In my hands I am holding a string with two quetzal’s that represent freedom as it is well known that quetzals cannot be held captive. I often think that going through an art program at a white institution has corrupted my mind. They lack in providing resources to aid in traumas afflicted by the same institutions that pride themselves in diversity. I am really proud of this painting, because it was therapeutic and healing for me. I feel that the only language I am truly fluent in, is painting. It allows me a freedom that I cannot say, pertains to other aspects of my life. This piece embodies surviving beyond my experience within institutions and how I move forward.