My selection today is based on the cultural connection of food and art. In the latin community, both are used as a way to pass down family traditions, bond communally and identify specific regions of Latin America. Though today’s contemporary Latin artist is not simply defined or categorized by their cultural heritage, many still create work utilizing the recognizable attributes of traditional folk art constructs.
Bright colors, found materials and manageable compositions are all easily observable attributes of classic or derivative folk art. New contemporaries are still utilizing these elements and generating work more universally appreciated outside their respective communities. My selection today TACOS AMERICAN, this work is both distinctly Latino and extensively relatable; simplicity is key, humor is optional. This piece is straightforward and uncomplicated visual representation of the artist’s current desire, tacos.
TACOS AMERICAN is by Texas based artist Paul Valadez. Originally born and raised in California, Paul had spent the last 10 years in Texas and is an educator at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.