Chang, Nicholas (Week 7)

 

In the essay, “Chicanx Graphics In the Digital Age” by Claudia Zapata, the author explains how Chicanx political graphics have gradually moved into digital spaces and the adoption of digital tools to create art. Zapata explains how Chicanx art and political engagement are heavily intertwined with artists such as Barbara Carrasco using her art to show support for the boycotts organized by the United Farm Workers. With the internet becoming a popular medium, Chicanx artists began experimenting with the internet to create their art. Artists like Jacalyn Lopez Garcia used their art to transform the internet from a cold and purely informational space into an intimate one. The creation of the email and social media networks allowed Chicana artists to share their images and foster a community online. I think Zapata’s essay was a very interesting timeline of how Chicanx art was able to grow and adapt to new technology that continually connects artists to audiences. It was really interesting to see how politics and activism remain a very integral part of Chicanx art and how that plays out in each technological medium. Whether artists were bringing attention to the treatment of undocumented immigrants or showing solidarity for the black community, art has remained a powerful medium for Chicanx people to use their voice and enact social change through images. The themes of identity as well as sexuality are also heavily prevalent in Chicanx art throughout history. Technology has allowed Chicanx artists to showcase their ideas on identity and sexuality to new audiences and to get their art shown in spaces that act as alternatives to traditional places to view art. New technology such as augmented reality and virtual reality are giving artists new tools to critique new positions of power such as Big Tech corporations. I think Zapata’s essay showcases the revolutionary aspect of Chicanx art and the adaptability of this art community.