Hello, my name is Grace

I am a multi-media, multicultural artist. I have dedicated my art to the translation of generational traumas and growth in multi-generational households. Along with film collections that I curated on trips to my second country where I gather most of my inspiration from, Panama. Growing up, I realized that multicultural artist such as myself had little representation, especially mixed Panamanians. Three years ago I took a leap of faith on myself and launched my first art page on instagram. Through that platform I expanded and hosted nearly 15 galleries all over Portland,OR. I was chosen by the Latin community to be a spokes woman at events and also set up pop-ups at local markets. It made me realize that painting/curation not only was helping me heal but also a passion I desired to take on full time.

I desire to be witness to the inevitable change of myself and the world around me. Angela Davis once said, “Progressive art can assist people to learn not only about the objective forces at work in the society in which they live, but also about the intensely social character of their interior lives. Ultimately it can propel people towards social emancipation.” — Another of my favorite quotes is from Nina Simone, “ AN ARTIST DUTY, as far as Im concerned, IS TO REFLECT THE TIMES.”

I see how artist from the past have poured themselves into their crafts and transcended time with their movements. I admire these artist the most. Those who create from the depths of their souls so others may feel seen in their humanity. They have inspired me to become a small movement for the multicultural community. To represent through works of art.

There are so many challenges, victories and defeats that shape us! Stories told through the arts all over the world. I asked myself , “what was my mission?” —“How do I choose one singular mission?!” . Then I realized one mission was never the goal. Through art I have learned the greatest lessons on how to alchemize my experiences and emotions and turn them into lasting imagery. To express. To enjoy. I desired for my art to have a positive impact. To be the fruit of my labor— To tend to the roots on my tree. To reflect resistance and courage through art.