Sirena Nieves

Artist Statement

I find that with our current political atmosphere, the pieces from my series
“IT’S B*LLSHIT!!” is more relevant than when it was initially
created. This series is rooted in the constant grief, sacrifice,
and resilience marginalized communities often experience
while trying to survive in a system that rejects diversity,
equity, and Inclusion. A primary example is the portrayal of
the Latino experience. It is often depicted in a manner of
celebration and unity, which denies the realities of
generational hardships, such as coerced assimilation,
poverty, and discrimination.
This exhibition features a collection of mixed media
installations and sculptures that echo curiosity, morbid, and
familiar forms and symbols central to the product of our post-colonized society. Inspiration for these pieces were discovered through the Chicano Rasquachismo
movement. Originating from the Spanish words’ “leftover”
and “no value”, these sculptures are constructed with
discarded, recycled, and found miscellaneous materials. No
matter the amount of policy and policing of our existence,
there is always power in the manifestation of expression.