by Clarissa Argueta
Artist Statement
“My ancestral heritage is what inspires my colourful acrylic paintings:
I feel fascinated and deeply moved by the mysticism and symbolism found in Latin America’s idiosyncrasies, popular culture and folklore. Particularly evident in the celebration of the traditional “Day of the Dead”, which constitutes the visual narrative in this collection of paintings. In addition, I am passionate about the relevance and magnificence of indigenous civilizations in the Ancient Americas and particularly intrigued by Pre-Hispanic iconography found in the textiles of Mexico, Central America and South America.”
Clarissa Argueta is a visual artist from San Salvador, El Salvador, whose artwork focuses on traditional Latin American culture and folklore. Her ancestral heritage is what inspires her colourful acrylic paintings.
In addition, Argueta showcases indigenous women as the axis of a magical, colourful universe in celebration of Latin America’s idiosyncrasies, popular culture and folklore.
Her academic credentials include a BFA in Graphic Design, from Universidad Dr. Jose Matias Delgado, El Salvador, and a MFA in Graphic Design from University of Illinois at Chicago, where she graduated as a Fulbright LASPAU Scholarship grantee. Her professional background includes over 15 years of experience as a graphic designer, visual artist and visual arts instructor.
Clarissa Argueta’s work can be found in private art collections in Central America, United States and Canada. She moved to New Westminster, BC, in 2001, where she now lives and works as a visual artist and visual arts instructor.
The Plaskett Gallery is located in the Massey Theatre Complex.
Hours 1 to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday and during performances in the Massey Theatre.
11am to 5pm August 11th& 12thfor the Cultural Crawl
