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| Map of the Americans in 1492 |
Mercy University
Honors 292 - Spring 2024 is proud to present their
exhibition "Art of the Americas: Redefining Identity."
Inspired by Alfredo Jaar's LED installation in Times Square, This is Not America, 1987/2014, we explored the various artworks, iconography, and history that belong to the people from the Western Hemisphere. Through this study we learned about the artists and ourselves, as we try to make sense of the world we live in today.
We wish to thank our guest speaker, award-winning
artist Wilhelmina Obatola Grant-Cooper, for mentoring our art project for this semester: "Cultural Appropriation and Appreciation," which gave us an opportunity to take a deep dive into the concept of identity within our rich and diverse American cultures.
We also thank Professor K. Patrick Fazioli, our amazing Director of the Global Honors Program
And we heartily thank our wonderful:
President Susan Parish
Provost Eva Fernández
Associate Provost Saul Fisher
Dean Peter West, School of Liberal Arts
and the entire GHP faculty which supports our academic endeavors
Samira Bryant
Cultural Appropriation Art Project
Art and Identity
I presented a person that is being rebuilt with the blooming of flowers growing out. I saw the original sketch on Pinterest and it resonated with me, so I tried to recreate it. The image represents me because I feel like it’s easier to pour into other people and spend time and energy making sure that they are okay before checking in with myself, which is often common in friendships. The theme in this drawing is one of self-care, reminding viewers to prioritize their own self-worth and emotional needs before dedicating themselves to others.
Valeria Carrion
Cultural Appropriation Art Project
This picture was taken while I was working on a photoshoot for a class. The main theme of it was to capture the essence of a type of architecture I liked. I chose a couple of New York City’s buildings. Anyone who knows me is aware that I love going to the city; not only because of the nice restaurants but also because everywhere you look, there is art. This image of myself demonstrates one of the many hobbies that bring joy to my heart. It represents a crucial part of what makes me the person that I am. Ever since I rediscovered art differently, it has made me see life with a lighter touch of joy. Furthermore, now that I haven’t had as much time to work on my art skills, looking at this picture makes me want to get back on track.
Wolf, 2023
Carmen Castillo
Cultural Appropriation Art Project
Art and Identity
(Public Domain internet image)
This image presents how I am as a person. Not only because I like reading, but also because sunsets and sunrise are one of my favorite things. To me reading makes me feel at peace like I have no problems in the world. There is nothing to worry or stress about. I'm also someone who likes to have deep conversations and break things down. I tend to be more on the quiet side, someone who likes to observe and be included without having to talk much. Reading allows me to be able to comprehend and connect with a person on a deeper level.
Research Project: Frida Kahlo, Mexican (July 6, 1907-July 13, 1954), Portrait of Natasha Gelman, 1943, Jacques and Natasha Gelman Collection, Mexico City.
Hilary Dislacruz
Cultural Appropriation Art Project
Art and Identity
I was inspired by our assignment to illustrate examples of cultural appropriation and appreciation and wanted an example of my own. I used different styles of pictures, and cut them to fit my canvas, I attempted the magazine style of art often times used by Wilhelmina Grant-Cooper. I took pictures that were indicative of my culture. I wanted to create something that would show and appreciate Dominican identity.
(Public Domain internet image)
I've always been somewhat dependent on others. Although I know how important it is to ask for help when needed, it is just as important to learn and grow alone. I am always keen on asking for help and depending on others for help even when I can do certain things alone. Growing up I felt as though if I was with or engaging with my friends constantly, my life was miserable. I hated the idea of being alone and in practice being alone made me genuinely miserable. I learned to adapt to always doing this for others and being there for others. So I was lonely. Ultimately, throughout the years, I became drained. With time I learned I am my own best friend; I felt the need to be around others so desperately,even at my own expense. This cost me years of getting to know things I enjoy and growing as an individual. This image depicts the act of self-love and self-care, the most important form of affection, never to be forgotten or taken for granted.
This is something I am still getting used to and just came to the realization recently that it is ok to be alone. Soon, I hope to grow into an image I, myself can be proud of.
Research Project: Jaime Colson, Dominican Republic (January 13, 1901-November 20, 1974), Merengue, 1938, Museo Bellapart, Santo Domingo, DR.
Randy Marji
Cultural Appropriation Art Project
CULTURE
CAMELEON EFFECT
I present a heart. Not just a simple heart, one that is leaking and is covered in bandages. This image explains everything: the downsides, uphill battles, and more. Everyone knows: love is complicated, maybe in different scenarios. Love has stopped me from believing in the past, physically drains you and wants you to go berserk. It can always be repaired. This image senses who I am because at times I am heartbroken, but something is always healing me from doing what I have to do to achieve my goals. The leakage symbolizes the mindset we have. Although we don't forget the times that hurt, we still push through and try to make ourselves the best we are. My goal is to outwork my age; these leaks and bandages won't stop me. The only thing that stops you is you. Looking at this image shows inspiration and appreciation. We are all still here living, working, learning, and doing the best we can for our futures. That is my philosophy of life. We have to work through it!
Research Project: Diego Rivera, Mexican (December 8, 1886-November 24, 1957), Frozen Assets, 1931-32, Museum of Modern Art, New York City.
Wendy Salazar
Cultural Appropriation Art Project
Art and Identity
I'm not much of an artist so I've decided to attach a photo of two of my cats. They represent me and my love for animals pretty well. I also feel like their personalities reflect mine at times. My baby kitten, Fiona, has a wild side and she represents the adventurous side of me. On the other hand my cat on the right, Pancha, is more relaxed and represents my laid back personality.
Research Project: Maria Izquierdo, Mexican (October 30, 1902-December 2, 1955), Viernas de Dolores (Virgin of Sorrows), 1944-45, Arte Moderno de México. Colección Andrés Blaisten, Mexico, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México.
Shylene Skerritt
Cultural Appropriation Art Project
Art and Identity
This picture describes the hard work and dedication that I try to have at all times. I feel that this photo shows that I do not quit and I won't quit and how I will be a change in my family. I am the first person in my entire family to go to college. I am one out of few who graduated high school. I want to be that change and break the cycle. So this picture is about a big milestone for me.
Beth S. Gersh-Nesic, PhD
Adjunct faculty, Mercy University
Thank you so much, dear Honors Students who participated in "Arts of the Americas," Spring 2024.
You are so gifted and kind. Thank you for the pleasure of your company each week and for enriching my art history knowledge through your research projects.
May you live long and prosper!
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