Week 10 Reflection

 

When reflecting on this quarter, I would like to start by reflecting on how much I have learned about the art industry when looking at it from a Chicana artist perspective. Many times, in the art industry we are forced to learn from a European perspective. We have all heard about Van Gogh, Picasso, and other artist but never do we learn about Yolanda Lopez or Frida Kahlo. This class gave me exposure to artists that are more like me. Artists like SandOner and Montoya hit most home as they were familiar with where I grew up in, South Gate. In addition, I enjoyed how this class really taught me about community and sticking together as students. I had taken STEM classes before and many times, students do not care to work collaboratively or to look out for one another.  

The Wikipedia project taught me how to actively engage in my community and do my part by exposing artists who are not heard of often. By doing this job for those who are turned away whether it be within the Chicanx community or outside the community, one is actively creating a more inclusive community. Although the Wikipedia project challenged me, I was able to learn different research methods and how to properly cite without stealing information. The Wikipedia project was something I had never heard of or thought I would be able to do. This class really taught me how to believe in myself when it comes to being an activist. Although it seems as making a Wikipedia page is minimal work, it’s the small steps that can lead one into a greater community. 

I want to say my favorite artist that I learned about this quarter was Yolanda Lopez, I really enjoyed her presentation. Giving a face to the artist I has heard about and read about really excited me. I enjoyed learning about what inspired her to be the artist that she is. Overall, this class was a different learning experience to what I am accustomed to, it was something new but also something very exciting.