marina

My studio is driven by my dynamic experiences as a young Mexican American woman. Born and raised in South San Diego, California, I grew up within a cultural community that shares traditions and values like faith and family. 

Being a daughter of immigrants leads to a complex and delicate lifestyle. One of my biggest fears is the possibility that, at any moment, detention and deportation can uproot my family’s entire life. This endless worry feeds into consequent anxieties and responsibilities. Like many other immigrant children, I was taught to keep my head down and mistrust law enforcement. Furthermore, my parents rely on my siblings and me to translate beyond everyday exchanges, a process recognized as “language brokering,” despite living in a Spanish-speaking community. In addition, as the youngest of three, I am expected to be the caretaker for my aging parents while also working towards my career. Although it can all be a cultural burden, I cannot help but also receive a sense of pride. In other words, as a first-generation American-born, I am determined to honor my parents’ sacrifice and help them in any way I can. 

Being Mexican in the United States brings forth a variety of challenges. In addition to the perpetual language barrier, cultural differences and stereotypes affect my lifestyle. I experience culture shock resulting in mental and emotional tolls as I continue to adapt to American culture, especially after choosing to attend an out-of-state art university. There is a phrase commonly used to describe the identity crisis I frequently face: “ni de aqui, ni de alla,” translating to neither from here nor there, capturing the lack of belonging. Despite learning much from my Mexican parents, navigating my life in this country is something I learn alongside my siblings and friends, who are also first-generation, forming our own community to combat America’s individualism. Together, we are working towards improving our culture while facing xenophobia in the United States. Mexicans are continually portrayed in a conflicting negative light despite stereotypes being statistically refuted. Not to mention how Americans tend to perceive all Latin Americans as Mexicans despite the distinct cultural differences. Working hard to thrive in America is my way of pushing back on all these challenges and stereotypes.

I want my art to embody and juxtapose the intricacies of my life. By reacting to my mark-making and incorporating Mexican culture's vibrant colors and spirited textures, I seek to reminisce about my childhood and reflect on the idealization of the American dream and abstract emotions.