The work of Oakland based, self-taught sculptor Maria Paz (b. 1989) explores a different path, specifically the bond broken with her home country of Chile and her experience of being raised as an undocumented immigrant in the United States. Paz states: “I am interested in the impact of being separated from one’s country and how that shapes immigrants and the dualities in their cultural identities.”

 

The five ceramic works featured in the show have the feeling of archaeological findings, brightly colored vessels in an homage to the palette of Latin America. The works are covered in figures, objects and words, stories to be told and passed down to future generations. In one arresting piece, “The Webs of our Past Lives”, knobby protrusions cover the melon shaped stoneware. Worn and shadowy figures, ocean waves, flowers and leaves have been glazed onto one side while a paragraph of bold text demanding action from her ancestors covers another. At a time of such turmoil and divisiveness, Paz’s voice is undeniably fitting. By painting visions of Chile, her ancestors and her past, Paz seeks to reconcile and pay dues to her experience as a Latinx immigrant feels endlessly drawn to her home country. 

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EXHIBITIONS INCLUDE

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2019

 

     The Tallest Part Of The Arch, Southern Exposure, San Francisco, Ca

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2018

 

    Lavender Scented Palms, Pt.2 Gallery, Oakland, CA

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    Her Horizon, Gallery Also, Los Angeles, CA

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    Like Tar, Like Baskets, Swim Gallery, San Francisco, CA

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    Mirror of Venus, New Image Art, Los Angeles, CA

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     Nevertheless, The Galallery, San Francisco, CA

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2017

 

     Black & White, 3rd Street Village Gallery, San Francisco, CA

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     Visions In Clay, LH Horton Jr Gallery, Stockton, CA

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     Figures and Faces, Pacific Art League, Palo Alto, CA

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     Displacement & Migration, St. Louis Artists Guild, St. Louis, MO

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     History Repeats Itself, Someth1ng Gallery, London, UK

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2016

 

    Two Stops To Go, Fort Mason Center, San Francisco, CA