The studio component allowed me begin the process of becoming a more skilled drawer and visual artist. I really appreciated the beginners approach to our sketchbooks because it encouraged students who wanted to strengthen their drawing skills and, was simple but refreshing--I'm sure--to those who already practice drawing.
The course was also great for exposure to different types of art and artists. I got to research my own artist Monica Kim Garza and got to fall in love with the other artists my classmates presented on, particularity Jeaneen Carlino's work, of which I draw profound inspiration from.
Her fusion of flora and fauna-like elements in fantastically color-full forms is amazing!
Besides being a generous provider of inspiration for my own expression of art, this class has also influenced my own understanding of art's role in political advocacy and engagement. It has made me see and understand how artists can use their expression of "art" in political manners. One example that stands out to me is Judy Baca's mural the Great Wall of Los Angeles which recites an alternative history of the L.A. area while engaging with "civic-minded community members, youth participants, academic historians, activists..." (Indych-López, 2). In this project Professor Baca engaged with community youth in a politicized manner during an era of radical Latinx activism. This has inspired me to take what I have learned here and apply it to the communities I am involved with on campus i.e. MEChA de UCLA especially now in such a stressful and confusing political atmosphere.
The class was great. The knowledge inspired me and I really resonated with it. One of my regrets is that I did not engage 100% with this course. My personal obstacles were making me loose my academic balance. However, I look forward to finishing strong and continuing my expression of "art" beyond this course. Drawing inspiration from other Chicanax artists with online social media platforms. Thank you Professor Lopez for leading us this quarter.
Hello Armando,
ReplyDeleteI shared a similar experience with you in that I also had a few struggles this quarter but I absolutely enjoyed taking this course. I had never took an art class before so I am also glad that the professor took a beginners approach, otherwise I would've probably been lost! Lastly, I really liked this photo that you shared. The colors and the artist choice of flowers and specific elements contrast the women's beauty and also stand on their own, thank you for sharing!