Date of Graduation

Spring 2026

Degree

Master of Fine Arts in Visual Studies

Department

Art & Design

Committee Chair

Sarah Williams

Abstract

As a first-generation Mexican American, I look for alternative sources of inspiration through spiritual practices and postcolonial artwork that predate American modern/contemporary art. People of color in the US are categorized by words like Latin X, first, second, or third generation, Mexican American, and so on. In searching for my own identity, I question the verbiage that places constrictions over my body, soul, and life experiences. Compared to its pre-declaration of the lands, the United States' 250-year history is rather short. Looking at a portion of my cultural heritage, I associate dogs, jewelry, and maize with tradition, power, and spiritual protection. Chihuahuas and garland beads deepen my understanding of my own cultural and artistic heritage. Jewelry and fabric shield part of my soul. Decolonizing my thoughts about death I turn to other spiritual frameworks that exist in Mexican mythology. I ground myself in my cultural roots by using artwork as a healing practice.

Keywords

corn, xolo, Mexican American, friendship beads, miracle, soft armour, underworld

Subject Categories

Chicana/o Studies | Fine Arts | Race, Ethnicity and Post-Colonial Studies

Copyright

© Olga Jocelyn Shute

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