As a Political, Impressionist, Activist and a Xicana Artist, my life requires the direct engagement in community. I observe the world with concern for the future and express my anxiety in my paintings. Turning the lens on myself, I continually strive to do less harm in the world by changing my behavior and try to expose others to reality which they avoid through television and repetitive lifestyle.
To continually renew my view of the world is very important for me. For example, I ride my bicycle a lot. This changes your perspective: you are not in the closed, protected, walled off confine of a car, nor the safe pedestrian zones. To be a bicyclist in the city is both dangerous and exhilarating, a self-awareness of yourself and the concrete jungle like nothing else. It’s the best way to observe and participate in everyday life in San Francisco. The bicycle, believe it or not, has been my stepping stone to direct activism.
This year, many manifestations of the Occupy Movement have sprung up in many parts of the world. I have been following the movement since its birth in Spain and Egypt. I see now the need of creativity and faith in humanity as we together find the true meaning of justice, government and community. Even though I do not agree with everything the occupy (Decolonize) movement does, I stand in support and take part in a fast learning movement.
The process of my paintings consists of trying to be everywhere in San Francisco where cultural and social communities come together for one common purpose. Whenever I see a striking, thought provoking, and conceptual image before my eyes I grab a hold of my camera. The image must contain a certain idea or question with just the right mood. If there is a story I will capture it, if the quality is just right, I will paint it. My art comes from my real life in San Francisco.
More info @: www.carinalomeli.com
