2025 COMD ILLUSTRATION SENIOR THESIS PROJECT:

“LA CASA DE MI FAMILIA”

This project explores pattern making inspired by Mexican and Puerto Rican heritage, specifically through alebrijes and textile weavings, to create culturally specific art that celebrates the vibrant aesthetics of these traditions and fosters a sense of community and familial identity.

The appeal of an alebrije is that there is no right way to illustrate, sculpt, carve, or design them. The awkward lining or unsteady coloring makes them all the more special and one-of-a-kind. In Mesoamerica, they are seen as spirit guides or protectors of our people. My goal is to honor these guides and the generations of folk artists before me by spreading their love and community while allowing viewers to see parts of themselves within these patterns. Through my choice of color, I am directly referencing the symbolic emotions such as love, power, and tranquility. In addition, much of the geometric shaping is found within nature and the world around me. Each of these aspects strengthens my connection to my culture and the community building that my ancestors created.