While reading, Chicanx Graphics In The Digital Age, I see that various digital mediums be it electronic billboards, websites or prints that are interactive through augmented reality apps are being used by Chicanx artists much like traditional printmaking was used during the Chicano Movement as, "cries of disruptions, empowerment and resistance." (Zapata, 131) I recently attended the Califas Artists panel as apart of the "Change=Action/Time: Generational Activism in Chicanx and Latinx Art" visual symposium and many of the artist spoke about community and feeling apart of through nonprofit art centers, such as Self-Help Graphics and gathering locals to help paint murals in their neighborhoods. Do you think artist working in the digital field lose out on opportunities to collaborate with local members of communities? Are mediums like augmented reality screen prints, such as Zeke Peña's A Nomad In Love keep art non accessible to marginalized communities?
The digital realm continues to help express the complexities of Chicanx culture and identity. Many artists are able to have their work seen throughout the world via social media. Historically BIPOC artist have not had as much access showing in galleries. Lalo Alcaraz, an artist from Los Angeles, CA, created his
I stand with Emma poster which supported a community of students who survived a school shooting in Parkland, FL, was reposted throughout Facebook and Instagram. Many of the social media posts happen in real time helping to bringing communities together faster than a traditional printed poster would make the rounds. Favianna Rodriquez's website utilizes digital space to make social artwork such as how to videos, downloadable posters, defund the police coloring pages and art kits accessible free of charge to anyone with a printer. When considering traditional printmaking and digital platforms there's no need for an either-or mentality. Digital works continue to further the social justice movement while adding to multiple layers to the the Chicanx dialog.
Hi Amina! I read your response and you pose a great question regarding digital platforms and whether they can maintain and present artists with opportunities. I think social media and other digital platforms have done just that and have been incredibly beneficial for artists, especially during COVID. I agree that digital art work posted on social media, like "I Stand With Emma,"can have an incredible social/political impact. I think your last sentence states this best and goes to show how digital works are capable of bringing awareness to social/political issues and are continuing the work of Chicanx artivists.
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