Statement:
This would be my third year doing The Dragon Boat Art Show in May. The pandemic took over our lives. I did this piece to shield me from the truth. I used everything in my studio/bedroom like: buttons, feathers, bottle cap, pearls, earrings, medallion, shells, and salvaged encapsulated in mesh all items were found in the Willamette River, even the plastic unicorn.
Award:
This piece was selected for the Portable Works Public Art Collection. It was a true honor to win the Support Beam Grant Award, 2020. Support Beam is designed to support emerging artists’ long-term creative practice and livelihood during an unprecedented time.
Medium:
beads, canvas, fabric, found-objects, salvaged, upholstery, trim
Year:
2020
Dimensions:
59
× 50 inches
Statement:
This work depicts the tree of life, symbolizing our connectedness, and the beauty of togetherness. The large tapestry depicts the artist's Grandparents as two Día de Muertos Calaveras holding hands forming the roots of a Tree of Life. The trunk and branches of the tree include indigenous Salvadoran, and personal imagery. The piece is machine and hand sewn, appliquéd, and embroidered using hand-dyed materials salvaged from around Portland.
Statement:
I embroidered this piece to help myself relax during the Covid-19 pandemic. I am surrounding myself with my friends, the plants, to shield me from harm, and to support my colorful heart that gives me life. That is a dream I had not too long from now.
Statement:
One of my Chaleco Protectors. Each Protective Vest is a unique refuge depicting mythical heroines and others finding balance in the midst of pollution, conflict, disorder and darkness. The Nativos Americanos vest celebrates the resilience of indiginous people.
