In Tijuana, Mexico, a city often seen as a hybrid of Mexican and American influences, artist Ingrid Hernández presents a different perspective through her photographic work. Her exhibition, “Ingrid Hernández: 20 años de arte _Under Construction_” at Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT), curated by Daniela Lieja Quintanar and Rosela del Bosque, showcases 13 series of photographs that delve into the complexities of Tijuana’s squatter settlements and the interplay between wealth and poverty.
Hernández, a native of Tijuana, captures the essence of the city through her lens, focusing on the self-built homes and structures that define the landscape of the impoverished districts. Her early series, like “Outdoor,” showcase the resourcefulness of residents who repurpose materials like garage doors from the US to create their dwellings. Through her photographs, she sheds light on the resilience and creativity of Tijuana’s residents in the face of challenging circumstances.
One of Hernández’s projects, “Tijuana Compressed,” highlights the use of industrial materials from the city’s manufacturing sector in the construction of informal settlements. These images not only document the living conditions of residents but also reflect the city’s role as a hub for production destined for the US market. In her series “Irregular,” Hernández offers a glimpse into the interiors of these makeshift homes, revealing the intimate spaces where people navigate their daily lives.
Hernández’s empathetic approach to her subjects is evident in her portrayal of the haphazard living conditions with dignity and respect. Her photographs capture the humanity and resilience of individuals striving to make the best of their circumstances, showcasing the beauty in the midst of adversity. Through projects like “Inside,” which explores the homes of Mexican immigrants in New York City, Hernández connects the viewer to the experiences of marginalized communities and the labor that fuels economies on both sides of the border.
The exhibition design by Adalberto Charvel adds another layer of depth to Hernández’s work, creating immersive display areas that mirror the construction methods used in Tijuana’s self-built homes. The installation blurs the lines between art and architecture, inviting viewers to step into the world captured by Hernández’s photographs.
“Ingrid Hernández: 20 años de arte _Under Construction_” offers a fresh perspective on Tijuana, moving beyond stereotypes to reveal the everyday lives of its residents. Through Hernández’s lens, the city’s complexities and contradictions come to light, showcasing the resilience and creativity of its people. The exhibition runs at Centro Cultural Tijuana until March 8th, inviting visitors to explore the layered narratives of Tijuana’s urban landscape.
