Emilia Cruz is a Chicana artist residing in Ventura County, California. Cruz is currently enrolled in Art Center College of Design working towards a BFA in illustration. She teaches art classes for children at Plaza de la Raza in Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles. Cruz has recently been commissioned by CNN en Español for Proyecto Ser Humano and for an upcoming Netflix series Gente-fied. Her work has been displayed at many galleries on the west coast including Seattle, Oakland, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Exhibitions featuring her work included “Viva La muxer” at Plaza de la Raza in Los Angeles; “When She Rises” at SPARC in Los Angeles; “Chicana: Magia de mujer” at La Bodega Gallery in San Diego; and solo exhibitions at Avenue 50 Studio and ChimMaya Gallery. Her work speaks about the importance of representation for people of color, specifically women of color. She explores different ways of depicting vulnerability, self-love, and empowerment. Her paintings are also significantly influenced by her Mexican roots and family traditions. You can find her at emiliacruz.com or at cruzemilia on Instagram.
Art Title: Am I Too Dark?,
Dimensions: 30 x 40
Media: Oil on panel
“I spent most of my childhood and adolescent years building up internalized hate for my own [dark complexion]. Multiple times I even attempted to get rid of my melanin. Being honest about this with myself and with others has played an immense role in my healing.”
Title: Ni Tu Santa, Ni Tu Puta
Dimensions: 24 x 24
Media: Acrylic on panel
“In Ni Tu Santa Ni Tu Puta, the Emilia sitting on the left side carries a more reassured facial expression and body language, while the other Emilia sits with her legs crossed and stares wistfully to her right. Her heart bleeds and a thorn-covered vein attaches itself to a stuffed figurine that is symbolic of my ex-partner, while on the opposite end, the other Emilia’s heart is flourishing. As much as I wanted this piece to be recognizably Frida influenced, I also wanted to make it my own in every way possible.”
Title: Cruz
Dimensions: 16 x 20
Media: Oil on panel
“Initially I did not have a storyline set up; I simply wanted to paint a self-portrait. As I was getting ready to take my own reference photos, I realized how every step was important. I lined my lids with a sharp, cutting-edge eyeliner. I chose to wear a red traditional dress that was gifted to me from my prima who lives in Tijuana. Red expresses passion, anger, but also love, and I wore it with the intention that all three emotions could be read through the aura of my piece. I also put on a leather harness that instantly allows me to feel rebellious and comfortable.”
