Carmen Lomas Garza: Cakewalk

Carmen Lomas Garza is known for creating positive images of her family and community combating racism. In particular, Cakewalk (1987) showcases the community fundraising for their children to obtain higher education. The painting is made of acrylic in a 36 x 48-inch canvas, and it consists of many dynamic brown figures actively participating in a cakewalk. The figures include many members and children of the community either participating in the actual cake walk or managing the whole event, from distributing the cakes to providing music. In fact, Garza’s parents are illustrated actively involved in the event, suggesting their critical roles in the organization. Additionally, the painting includes Garza as a child drawing on the floor with a twig. Cortez further explains that Garza’s parents were members of the American GI Forum, which consisted of many Mexican Americans fighting together for equality to ensure a good future for the youth (Cortez, 8). This art piece is significant since it displays the upbringing of the artist and her family’s active participation and engagement in community events. Moreover, it depicts the social consciousness and awareness of her community and their involvement in social change. It conserves the Chicano identity by representing the collective memory of the community. The painting represents the unity and culture of the Mexican American community through her own experiences as a child. She is able to provide story-like illustrations that form a connection between many Chicanx individuals. Therefore, her painting is able to authentically depict a social movement in a positive manner.