Yreina Cervantez: Artist, Professor, Activist

A profile on Yreina Cervantez in California State University’s Daily Sundial outlines her beginnings in the Chicana/o art community through Self-Help Graphics in East Los Angeles to her current position as a professor at CSUN. She also discusses how moving from the Midwest to Orange County, with its politically conservative environment, motivated her to become part of the movement.

Cervantez also discusses the difficulties of trying to make it in a male dominated industry. As quoted in CSUN’s Daily Sundial:

“Women have not been very visible in today’s art,” she said. “And if they have, they are portrayed very stereotypical. These pieces talk about the dignities of women and their strengths, while reclaiming a sense of empowerment and agency.”

Through her teaching and her art, Cervantez strives to inspire younger generations of people like her. When asked about working with her students she was state to the Daily Sundial:

Art is not just a personal experience that resonates individually, but an opportunity to inspire change, which is why Cervantez decided to teach at a college level. It is a perfect opportunity to impact younger students at a more meaningful comprehensive and influential way, Cervantez said.

Cervantez’ work is currently being exhibited at UCLA’s Fowler Museum as part of “Mapping Another LA: The Chicano Art Movement.” running now through February 2012.