Week 3
Pattie Esquivel, “Sunflowers”, watercolor, 2020.
At first the piece came anonymously, and we were mystified! It has an incredibly detailed envelope which added wonder to the mystery. Later the artist revealed themselves and it all made sense. Mischief in the age of pandemic is a classic phenomenon in the history of struggle and tragedy. It lifts the human spirit above a scary reality! As with many, the piece also contrasts this new reality with beauty and hope for a more positive and escapist place, like going to Disneyland for the day!
Brian D. Tripp, “I WANT TO GRIPE•ON•GOING • OCCUPATION OF INDIAN COUNTRY IT• MAKES• ME•ANGRY”, United States Map, manzanita branches, paint. circa 2011
Brian D. Tripp who we had the privilege of exhibiting in Los Angeles in 2018.
We are honoring Brian D. Tripp who we had the privilege of exhibiting in Los Angeles in 2018. Brian is arguably one of the most important contemporary artists today. Brian is Karuk born and has been active as a painter, sculptor, poet, singer, regalia maker, and activist since the 1970s. He agreed to let us use this image for the show. The work is a representation of a larger mixed media installation. “I WANT TO GRIPE•ON•GOING • OCCUPATION OF INDIAN COUNTRY IT• MAKES• ME•ANGRY” also included in the installation was an audio of a traditional song sung by the artist. The piece addresses issues of American Indian sovereignty and land rights. Brian has inspired the next generation.
Beatriz H Jaramillo, “Broken Ice”, watercolor and pencil, 2020.
Removing the piece from the envelope revealed a complex composition in four panels. There is an interesting juxtaposition between the physical separation of the pieces and the imagery of the broken ice. The piece evokes environmental issues of global warming and raises questions about the crisis we are in.
Joe Carrion, #26, mixed media, 2020.
The piece speaks strongly to isolation and the loss of identity and individuality. The portrait has a number not a name! The layers of the hymnal imagery could signify a longing for belonging in a communal space.
Cynda Valle, “Unos Cuantos Piquetitos”, assemblage on 3-D postcard, 2020.
The work has layers many of depth. The post card plays with a sense of motion as you move it. The actual embellishments add another layer that makes it almost sculptural. As with all of Cynda’s work this piece is rich with symbolism and has a narrative. Frida Kahlo and the face mask have become the representation of the times we find ourselves in. Her perseverance in the face of insurmountable odds is going to inspire all us artists as we move forward into the unknown wearing our masks.
Karena Massengill, “We All Need Our Post Office”, mixed media, 2020.
In this work the artist uses a decoupage process with vintage photographs. The title fits our theme well and illustrates the importance in recognizing the postal service at a time when it is under attack.
Hans Dieter Betz, A New Aphorism From Wisdom of Old, 2020, text on paper
We received this piece by Philosopher and Theologian Hans Dieter Betz. As an expert on Nietzsche and the Greek philosophers (all who loved Aphorisms), the writer has added another. In his Aphorism he expresses a biting commentary on current events.
