Grace Gutierrez

Mi Primo

Acrylic on oil cloth

"This is an acrylic painting on oil cloth, a material that reminds me of family gatherings. Oil cloth always lines the food tables at parties and family reunions.

My work explores identity and the complexities of being mixed race. I often include imagery that nods to my Chicanx heritage, and I use bright and bold colors influenced by Mexican folk art. My community and heritage have influenced me so much, a major goal of mine is to increase community engagement through my practice. "

– Grace Gutierrez

About the artist

Grace Gutierrez

Grace Gutierrez is a Colorado-based artist working in a variety of mediums including painting, ceramics, sculpture, and video art. Her work celebrates her mixed-race, Chicanx identity, and is a response to deeply personal experiences as well as her family’s experiences navigating culture, heritage, and stereotypes. She is inspired by Mexican folk art, folklore, and literature. Constant reflection of community and cultural pride helps her build sentimental narratives to encourage empathy, equity, and pride within our communities.

Born and raised in Longmont, Colorado, Gutierrez still resides in her hometown and works to expand creative opportunities for local artists. She received her BFA with an emphasis in painting and ceramics from Metropolitan State University of Denver in 2020.