Los Angeles-based artist Estefania Ajcip explores the themes of family separation through her vivid sculptural paintings. Her latest collection, Folded Memories, reflects on her childhood in Guatemala, during which her father worked in L.A., missing significant events in her life. This body of work transforms her personal experiences into poignant art pieces that express a yearning for familial connection.
Ajcip utilizes materials like birch plywood, papier mache, small LED lights, and acrylic to create a surreal environment where childhood grief and dreams intersect. Drawing inspiration from family photographs, she reimagines scenes and objects from her home, placing them in a fantastical context. One piece, “Momo 2012,” features two adults holding hands, while a girl and her paper train set are revealed through an opening in the wood.
The recurring themes of separation and distance in Ajcip’s work highlight her relationship with her father. In “Telephone game,” Ajcip is shown with a paper phone held to her ear, while her father is depicted at a public payphone, creating a striking visual of their communication. This theme is echoed in “Four paths/Two paths?” where a sculptural bus travels between L.A. and Guatemala, with the national bird of Guatemala symbolizing hope and unity at the front of the bus. The exhibition emphasizes how the longing from her youth now inspires her art, underscoring the idea that adversity can lead to strength.
Folded Memories is available for viewing until August 22 at the Charlie James Gallery in Los Angeles. Additionally, you may be intrigued by the architectural portraits of Arghavan Khosravi.
