The show will include a series of paintings on canvas and paper as well as mixed media. Exploring the role of dominant cultures and how power, politics and economics impact the voice of historically marginalized communities is a continuing interest for Cristi. A son of immigrant parents from Chile, growing up in predominantly Mexican-American East Los Angeles and eventually pursuing a formal arts education in the Northwest and Bay Area, has given him a unique perspective on questions of cultural identity especially for those outside dominant cultures.
Currently on view at Campfire Gallery in San Francisco, is “From The Margin” a solo exhibition of new work by Pablo Cristi. The show will include a series of paintings on canvas and paper as well as mixed media. Exploring the role of dominant cultures and how power, politics and economics impact the voice of historically marginalized communities is a continuing interest for Cristi. A son of immigrant parents from Chile, growing up in predominantly Mexican-American East Los Angeles and eventually pursuing a formal arts education in the Northwest and Bay Area, has given him a unique perspective on questions of cultural identity especially for those outside dominant cultures. Connecting the dots from his own experience to a broader societal context sparked further investigations into the history and impact of hegemony that inform much of his work.
Working in a narrative style, Cristi combines historical references with pop-culture and contemporary subjects that remind the viewer of the deeper roots to current issues of acculturation and assimilation. In some of the works, compositions are looser, layering tightly rendered subjects in more gestural backgrounds, some characters in clear focus and others barely visible, to reinforce notions of impermanence and flux. In others, scenes are presented more formally but surprising juxtapositions of people, place and time create a sense of cultural ambiguity. While the subject matter overall is more critical, Cristi imbues a lighter feeling throughout the work with his use of color and moments of humor that invite the viewer into the narrative.
As we move toward the idea of a more tolerant and inclusive society, we are reminded to consider what true acceptance of all cultures means, not just on a superficial commercial level, but a real societal and economic one.
Pablo Cristi “From The Margin”
Campfire Gallery
San Francisco, CA
Show runs: July 8 – August 9, 2015
