Cultural Anthropology M.A. Thesis Project
Power in Identity: A Group Exhibition
"Power in Identity: A Group Exhibition" curated by Yajaira Vilchis-Alvarez is inspired by conversations between the artists who feel they have the power to determine who they want to be as people of color, specifically as women of color. Alexa Vasquez, Kayley Jane Garcia Dykman, and Mel Depaz's works offer a compelling exploration of their transformative journeys in discovering and embracing their identities. The exhibition theme revolves around the challenges people of color face in defining their identity amidst diverse cultural backgrounds. The exhibition highlights self-discovery and representation. Vasquez, Dykman, and Depaz use their art as vehicles for navigating the complex terrain of cultural background and community, expressing and defining their identities on their own terms. It is hoped this exhibition encourages dialogue and understanding, providing a platform for visitors to reflect on the multifaceted nature of identity development.ā
Read more about this exhibition here.
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About the Artist:
Yajaira Vilchis-Alvarez is an emerging art professional and current M.A. Student in Cultural Anthropology at California State University Fullerton. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from California State University Long Beach. Shas interned at Bowers Museum, where she supported External Affairs departments, and the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., where she assisted with communication and public affairs tasks. She has enhanced her skills through the Art Bridges Foundation Internship as the Fellows Program Intern in Bentonville, Arkansas, where she created a DEAI toolkit and contributed to various projects. She is a 2024 CSUF DEFCon Student Research Fellow.ā