Artist Statement
​
Through my art, I challenge myself to make a notable impact in the Afro-Latinx community. My early works showcased my passion for the personalities of the entertainment industry through a series of portraits. My current body of work titled “Why you askin’ all them questions?”, “Azucar: Dia Los Muertos”, “Skin”, “Hazel eyes”, “Tengo una pero familia: But I have a family” and “I AM…”, takes a personal narrative approach to exploring my curiosity and unfolding my understanding of my identity as an Afro-Latina. Through my self-expressive drawings, paintings, mixed media work, and photography, I encounter and navigate my reactions to concepts about race, ethnicity, and colorist and their impact on mental and social well-being. This work allows me the opportunity to make both internal and external discoveries. Through research and personal experience, I hope to being light in answering the question: Who am I? and Where do I belong?
About the Artist
Oladia Menchaca is a Senior Fine Arts Major with a studio art concentration at the Illustrious Bowie State University. She was born in McAllen, Texas, and resided in Prince George's County Maryland when she was ten years old. A Multiracial woman, Oladia identifies herself as an Afro-Latina and shows a deep appreciation for her roots, so much so that she incorporates them into her practice. Her current work consists of social-political pieces that discuss issues of being an Afro-Latina in today’s society, while showcasing the significance of identity, especially in our current social climate. In addition, she demonstrates her love for the entertainment industry with several known artists in Hollywood she has drawn in her earlier work. During her art career, Oladia has submitted her work in four Raw Artist showcases all located in the Washington area from 2018 to 2019. In addition, her work was featured in a Call to Artist Exhibition hosted by Bowie State University in the Fine Arts Art Gallery. As a self-taught artist, she has created artworks ranging from pencil drawings to acrylic portraits, sharpie drawings, and mixed media. She is currently working to receive her bachelor's degree in Fine Art this spring. After graduation, she hopes to become a curator, a professional artist, and a professional dancer in the future.