CRUZ, VICTOR-2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I am applying for:: Equipment, Materials & Supply,Other If other please state below:: Research Artist Statement: Victor Cruz — Artist Statement Mainly focusing on older working class immigrants for this project, my artwork reflects and pays tribute to their laborious, tedious and seemingly endless exertions. The creation of woodcut portraits and the subject's work environment serve to illustrate that from these repetitive and strenuous labors can arise something unique, beautiful, and essential to society like the works of "tamaleras, paleteros, food truck workers, fruit vendors, jornaleros" that only the hand can produce. The materials I use to create these pieces such as wood and various hand tools further parallels this working sector. The hundreds and even thousands of deep cuts composing the art pieces also aim to imitate the subjects' day -to -day struggles, and how those struggles compose their stories. The woodcuts being made on sturdy, large -scale wood panels speak on the subjects' longevity in their occupations since some have been plying their trade in the very same spot for decades. Documenting the stories and work procedures of these individuals provide a meaningful connection to the viewer and humanize the worker. Knowing that the tamalera starts her process at tam and ends sales in the evening allows the consumer to appreciate her and the end product to a greater degree. Often times we interact with this specific working class yet never come to know their names. Bringing a name to the nameless can have a significant impact on viewer and subject. The installation of these works in multiple spaces in Santa Ana will serve to juxtapose the city's continuing development. The installations aim to endure, like their corresponding subjects, in a time where there is great change and at the very least state that "They were here and were truly long standing, cultural monuments to the city ". Narrative for proposed use of funds:: Being an undocumented student has posed several challenges throughout my life. One of the major obstacles has been financing my education and artwork. I excelled in both high school (ranking 7/963) and a demanding, top arts institution like Pratt Institute (achieving A's and B's). Even with various and significant scholarships I have had to take several years off from school due to finances and medical expenses. Medical care has also been a challenge. This grant will allow me to obtain proper equipment that will last decades and would further my artwork and contributions to my community. Four distinct works will be created each composed of a subject /subjects from different wards of the Santa Ana. These works range from 3 ft. by 5 ft to 4ft by 8ft. Research will precede the creation of the woodcuts. After the woodcuts are complete they will be photographed and vectorized in Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator where color will be added. These digital prints will have OR codes directing viewers to the website. Hand - prints will also be produced using traditional means. After installation and website development the project will be uploaded with the works available for purchase.