Exploring the Intimacy of Art and Childhood
In November 2011, I witnessed my father take his final breath. After returning from the rituals in Mexico, I felt a deep need to find solace in working with children. This desire to connect with the innocence and purity of childhood has been a recurring theme in my life, dating back to my own battle with cancer in 1990.
Transitioning into roles working with children was disorienting at first, as their logic and communication differed from what I was accustomed to. However, I found myself captivated and inspired by their unique ways of expression and interaction with the world.
Among all the age groups I worked with, two-year-olds held a special place in my heart. Their limited vocabulary did not hinder their ability to convey emotions and thoughts effectively. It was a reminder of the power of non-verbal communication and presence.
My experience with pre-verbal children led me to appreciate the intricacies of communication beyond words. I observed how children used their bodies and sounds to express themselves, influencing my artistic endeavors and performances.
Years later, during the migrant crisis, I was drawn back into working with children at a sanctuary church. Asylum-seeking families from Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador shared their stories through art, using clay and cardboard to transform their traumas into moments of creativity and joy.
These experiences with children have stayed with me, shaping my art and daily life. From my mispronunciations to my Mexican accent, every aspect of my being is intertwined with my creative expression.
In recent years, I have used unconventional mediums like activated charcoal and subway panels to explore themes of identity and self-love. From performances in Brooklyn galleries to intimate moments on the subway, I have found new ways to connect with myself and others.
Reflecting on my childhood memories, I realize how moments of simplicity, like licking mist off car windows, can offer clarity and insight. Through art and interaction with children, I continue to explore the depth of human connection and expression.
