HÍBRIDA
HÍBRIDA
By Araceli Holmes
I feel like no matter what, there will always be this layer of Blackness that has to be “explained” or remains, for some reason, up for examination. As if my appearance defines me. As an artist, I see myself as an introverted person which relates directly to the kind of observer I am in the world around me. My work surrounds the topic of pride within my Afro-Latina identity, as well as the contemplation of what sustains human life after excessive oppression.
“My work surrounds the topic of pride within my Afro-Latina identity....”
The overall theme of my work: through this oppression, we remain. The resilience that it took for me to be alive right now is what keeps me going. The sliver of oppression, hate, and anger that has been directed toward me solely based on my skin is simply media for more art I make. I aspire to feel every emotion through each art piece, and I am joyful to even be able to imagine the future of my art. Coming to the realization that I AM Black AND Mexican history combined fills me with immense pride.
“I aspire to feel every emotion through each art piece, and I am joyful to even be able to imagine the future of my art.”
